Location & Accessibility

Nestled in the heart of Zhejiang Province, Thousand Island Lake Stone Forest Scenic Area sits in Xiling Village, Shilin Town, Chun’an County—a hidden gem just a 2-hour drive from downtown Hangzhou. This makes it perfect for a day trip or weekend escape. To get there, you can either rent a car (GPS navigation is reliable) or take a scenic bus from Hangzhou’s West Bus Station. If you’re coming from Shanghai, high-speed trains to Hangzhou paired with local transit make for a smooth journey. For those who prefer hassle-free travel, many tour agencies offer day trips that include round-trip transport and guided tours.

Natural Wonders: A Karst Marvel

Thousand Island Lake Stone Forest isn’t just a random collection of rocks—it’s a sprawling labyrinth of limestone towers shaped by nature over thousands of years. The park is divided into three main sections: Blue Jade Plateau, Eagle’s Ridge, and West Mountain Plateau, each offering unique landscapes. Wander through narrow paths where towering stone pillars loom overhead, creating a “stone jungle” that feels straight out of a fantasy movie.

What makes this place special? The rock formations here are alive with character. You’ll spot stones that look eerily like animals—lions, elephants, birds, even mythical creatures. One of the most famous sights is the Lion-Elephant Guarding the Door formation, where two massive rocks stand like sentinels. Locals joke that if you visit, you’ll never look at ordinary rocks the same way again—every peak here tells a story!

Human Connections: Culture in the Rocks

While Thousand Island Lake Stone Forest is a natural wonder, it’s also steeped in local folklore. Many of the rock formations have names tied to ancient legends. For example, some stones are said to be petrified warriors from a long-forgotten battle, while others resemble mythical creatures from Chinese tales. Guides often share these stories during tours, adding a layer of magic to the already surreal scenery.

The area also hosts seasonal festivals, like spring wildflower walks or autumn harvest celebrations, where visitors can try local snacks and crafts. It’s a chance to connect with the region’s rural charm while exploring the dramatic landscapes.

Practical Tips: Plan Your Visit

Thousand Island Lake Stone Forest is well-equipped for travelers. The visitor center offers maps, audio guides, and free Wi-Fi. For food, there’s a mix of local eateries serving fresh lake fish and mountain-grown vegetables, plus snack stands scattered throughout the park. If you’re visiting with kids, keep an eye out for the “rock-hunting” activity stations where little ones can collect smooth stones (and learn about geology in a fun way).

The best time to visit is spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and the foliage adds extra color to the gray limestone. Wear comfy shoes—the terrain is rocky, and you’ll want to explore every corner of this “East China’s #1 Stone Forest.”

An Unmissable Adventure

Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography buff, or someone who just enjoys breathing fresh air away from city crowds, Thousand Island Lake Stone Forest Scenic Area delivers. It’s the kind of place where every turn reveals a new marvel, and you’ll leave wondering how something so grand could stay under the radar for so long. Trust me—this isn’t just another “seen-it-all” tourist spot. It’s a chance to step into a living, breathing geological museum where Mother Nature herself is the artist.

Pack your curiosity (and a camera with extra batteries), and get ready to lose yourself in the magic of Thousand Island Lake Stone Forest. You won’t regret it!