• About Us
• Contact Us

Home China Travel Guide Hangzhou Hangzhou Attractions Thousand Islets Lake

Located in Chun'an County around 160 kilometers west of Hangzhou, in East China's Zhejiang Province, ( see China Map)Thousand Islets Lake is currently the largest man-made lake in China. It got its name from the 1078 islets in the lake. The lake is famous for its crystal-clear water and picturesque scenery. Covering an area of 573 square kilometers, the lake is more than one hundred times larger than West Lake in Hangzhou. A forest covers nearly 93 percent of the lake area, which is home to over 1,800 varieties of plants and 2,100 wild animals. With an average depth of 34 meters, its water visibility can reach 7 to 12 meters. See all beautiful lakes in China

Apart from its tranquil natural scenery, the lake also boasts exciting historical finds. Two ancient towns, both dating back more than 1,800 years, were discovered under the lake in 2002. After preliminary investigation, experts believe they might be the largest ancient building complexes found in China. The two towns were submerged 40 years ago to make way for a reservoir. Historical records show that the towns were filled with traditional Chinese buildings made of brick, stone and tile.

Biking Around the Lake

Biking  around the lake is an interesting adventure. The road is in good condition. It may take two days to bike all the way around. See our Thousand Islets Lake biking guide for more information.

Cruise

On of the most popular ways to visit the lake is to Take a cruise boat around the lake and enjoy its beautiful scenery. There are many cruise routes for travelers to choose. All routes take travelers to some of the islands.

Transportation between Thousand Islets Lake and Hangzhou

Direct buses are available at Hangzhou West Long Distance Bus Station(杭州汽车西站). Buses are available from 6:00 to18:40 ,and run every 40 minutes.

Direct buses from Thousand Islets Lake are available at Qiandaohu Long Distance Bus (千岛湖长途汽车站). From 5:20 to 18:00, buses depart every 40 minutes.