Location & Access

Thousand Island Lake Songjia Fishing Village Lanbowan Scenic Area sits in a serene bay on the eastern shore of Thousand Island Lake, Zhejiang Province. The address is No. 88, Songjiawu Village, Chun’an County—a hidden gem just 1.5 hours’ drive from Hangzhou city center. To get here, you can take a bus from Hangzhou West Bus Station to Chun’an, then a short taxi ride to the village. If you prefer flexibility, renting a car is perfect for exploring both the scenic area and nearby Thousand Island Lake attractions.

Natural Scenery: Forests, Water, and Fresh Air

Nestled between lush hills and crystal-clear waters, Lanbowan feels like a paradise. The area is wrapped in forests filled with cedar and bamboo, releasing tons of negative oxygen ions—think of it as nature’s own “fresh air spa.” A winding river runs through the forest, leading to the iconic forest roller-boat ride (more on that later!). Hiking trails and quiet docks let you soak in views of the lake’s emerald islands, while sunsets paint the sky in pink and gold. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to pause, breathe, and forget city stress.

Cultural Highlights: Life by the Lake

Songjia Fishing Village isn’t just about scenery—it’s a window into rural Chinese fishing life. Stroll through the fishing village’s old streets to see traditional wooden boats, nets, and locals mending their catches. Don’t miss the giant net fishing show, where fishermen haul in massive nets filled with fish (and plenty of photo ops!). At night, the fishing-themed food street buzzes with grilled fish, spicy crab, and soups cooked in clay pots. Pro tip: Try the qiandao yu (fish from Thousand Island Lake)—it’s fresh and mild, often served steamed or grilled.

Stay & Eat: Comfort Meets Adventure

When you’re ready to rest, Lanbowan has a 4-star hotel with lake-view rooms and balconies perfect for sipping tea. For budget travelers, the campground lets you pitch a tent by the water or rent a cozy cabin. The fishing-themed food street mentioned earlier is a feast for seafood lovers, but save room for tea-bar fishing—a unique blend of relaxation and activity. Sip local green tea while trying to hook a fish from a tranquil pond. It’s less about the catch and more about the experience!

Thrills & Chills: The Forest Roller-Boat

Now, for the main event: Lanbowan’s forest roller-boat. Think of it as an amusement park ride, but in a forest. This 1.5-kilometer water slide zips through treetops, dips down valleys, and climbs hills with a 120-meter total drop. Unlike regular water rides, this one has five splash zones where you’ll plunge into cool mountain pools. The best part? You control the speed—soar fast for thrills or ease into calm eddies. Afterward, most people laugh about how wet they got (wear waterproof gear!). Locals say, “People have roller coasters; we have roller boats,” and it’s true—this is a one-of-a-kind adrenaline rush.

Dive into Fun: Water Activities Galore

Beyond the roller-boat, Lanbowan packs other watery adventures. Rent scuba gear to dive for fish in the lake’s clear depths (guides help spot rare breeds). Or try huge net fishing, where you join locals pulling in nets heavy with silver fish. For something calmer, paddle a boat to hidden coves or drop a line at the tea-bar fishing spots. Families love the splash zones along the river, where kids (and adults!) can play in waist-deep water.

Souvenirs & Relaxation

Before leaving, browse the local market for handwoven baskets, dried fish, or jars of honey made from wild forest flowers. For a peaceful end to your day, sit by the lake at the forest teahouse, where you can sip tea while watching cormorants dive. If you’re lucky, the owner might share stories about how fishermen train these birds to catch fish.

Why Visit Lanbowan?

Lanbowan isn’t just another lakeside spot—it’s a mix of adventure, culture, and nature. Whether you’re zipping through the forest on a boat, tasting fresh fish, or breathing in mountain air, it’s designed for travelers who want to disconnect and recharge. And with new attractions still under construction, it’s only getting better. So pack light, bring your sense of wonder, and get ready for a day (or two!) where every moment feels like a break from reality.

Pro tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds, and check the weather—rain transforms the forest into a misty wonderland!