Lakes near Shanghai: gems of Eastern China

From legendary West Lake to the largest freshwater lake Taihu — 7 best lakes 1–3 hours from the metropolis. Nature, temples, tea plantations and famous crabs.

Did you know? The Yangtze River Delta and Zhejiang province are home to hundreds of scenic lakes. Taihu Lake is the third largest freshwater lake in China, and West Lake in Hangzhou has inspired poets and artists for over 1000 years. Most lakes are accessible for independent trips: high‑speed trains from Shanghai get you there in 1–2 hours, and tourist infrastructure is well developed on their shores.

Best lakes for a trip from Shanghai

Taihu Lake (太湖)

Largest freshwater lake 1.5–2 hours Easy

Taihu Lake is the third largest freshwater lake in China, located on the border of Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. It features scenic islands (Xishan, Dongshan), the famous Lingshan Buddhist complex with an 88‑meter Buddha statue, fishing villages and gardens.

Lingshan complexGrand Buddhist temple with an 88‑meter bronze Buddha statue.
Xishan IslandScenic island with traditional villages and fruit orchards.
Yuantouzhu ParkPicturesque peninsula with pagodas and lake views.
Fishing villagesLocal restaurants serving white fish, shrimp and crabs.

Practical information:

  • How to get there: High‑speed train from Shanghai to Wuxi (40 min, 100 yuan), then taxi to the lake (30 min). Or bus from Shanghai South to Wuxi (2 hours, 60 yuan).
  • Entrance: Lingshan complex — 210 yuan, Yuantouzhu Park — 90 yuan.
  • Tip: Wear comfortable shoes — the Lingshan complex has many steps.

West Lake (西湖) — the jewel of Hangzhou

UNESCO site 1 hour Easy

West Lake is China's most famous lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here you will find legendary pagodas (Leifeng, Baochu), the Lingyin Temple Buddhist complex, Longjing tea plantations and scenic causeways. Boat rides, cycling and Dragon Well tea tasting.

Leifeng PagodaFamous pagoda offering a panoramic view of the lake.
Lingyin TempleOne of China's largest Buddhist temples with caves and statues.
Longjing tea villagePlantations of famous green tea, tasting.
Su CausewayScenic causeway perfect for walking.

Practical information:

  • How to get there: High‑speed train from Shanghai to Hangzhou (1 hour, 150 yuan), then metro or taxi to the lake (20 min).
  • Entrance: Lake entry is free, Lingyin Temple — 75 yuan, Leifeng Pagoda — 40 yuan.
  • Tip: Rent a bicycle at the park entrance – you can cycle around the lake in 2–3 hours.

Qiandaohu (千岛湖) — Thousand Island Lake

Crystal clear water 3 hours Moderate

Qiandaohu is an artificial reservoir created during the construction of a hydroelectric dam. It has over 1,000 scenic islands, crystal‑clear drinking‑quality water and a submerged ancient city. Cruises, viewpoints and active recreation.

Island cruiseBoat trip between islands with stops at the main ones.
Meifeng ViewpointPanoramic view of thousands of islands.
Submerged city Shi ChengAncient city underwater (diving or virtual tour).
Amusement parkAttractions and water sports.

Practical information:

  • How to get there: High‑speed train from Shanghai to Hangzhou (1 hour), then bus to Qiandaohu (2 hours, 70 yuan). Or direct bus from Shanghai (4 hours, 120 yuan).
  • Entrance: Scenic area — 150 yuan, cruise — from 65 yuan.
  • Tip: Better to stay overnight – there are many hotels with lake views.

Yangchenghu Lake (阳澄湖) — crab capital

Gastronomic paradise 1.5 hours Easy

Yangchenghu Lake is famous throughout China for its hairy crabs (best time October–November). It features eco‑parks, resorts and restaurants serving crabs caught the same day. Boat trips and tastings.

Crab farmsRestaurants right on the water where you can choose crabs from holding pens.
Yangchenghu Eco‑ParkWalkways on boardwalks among aquatic plants.
Hot spring resortsSpa complexes on the lake shore.
Water toursDragon boat rides.

Practical information:

  • How to get there: Bus from Shanghai North to Kunshan (1 hour, 30 yuan), then taxi to the lake (20 min). Or by car via the expressway.
  • Entrance: Lake area entry is free, parks and attractions from 30 yuan.
  • Tip: Come during crab season (October–November) and book a table in advance.

Shanghu Lake (尚湖) — pagodas and bridges

Tranquility 1.5 hours Easy

Shanghu Lake is located in Changshu city, 1.5 hours from Shanghai. A scenic park with pagodas, stone bridges, lotuses and boat rides. Few tourists, ideal for a relaxing getaway and photo sessions.

Shanghu ParkWell‑kept grounds with pagodas and classical gardens.
Lake bridgeA long curved bridge popular with photographers.
Lotus fieldsIn summer, flowering lotuses cover much of the lake.
Boat ridesTraditional boat rental.

Practical information:

  • How to get there: High‑speed train from Shanghai to Changshu (50 min, 80 yuan), then taxi to the lake (15 min).
  • Entrance: Park entry — 60 yuan.
  • Tip: Visit in the morning to avoid heat and crowds.

Jinjihu Lake (金鸡湖) — modern lake of Suzhou

Modern architecture 1.5 hours Easy

Jinjihu Lake is located in Suzhou's new district, surrounded by skyscrapers, museums and parks. Night light shows, a Ferris wheel, boat trips. A combination of modern architecture and water surface.

Ferris wheelOne of the main attractions with a view of the lake.
Museum of Contemporary ArtExhibitions of Chinese and foreign artists.
Night light showIllumination of buildings and fountains in the evening.
Ligongdi IslandIsland with traditional Chinese gardens.

Practical information:

  • How to get there: High‑speed train from Shanghai to Suzhou (30 min, 100 yuan), then metro to "Jinjihu" station.
  • Entrance: Entry is free, attractions and museums charge a fee.
  • Tip: Come in the evening to see the light show.

Dongtinghu Lake (洞庭湖) — mountains and temples by the water

Hiking 2 hours Moderate

Dongtinghu Lake is a scenic lake at the foot of Dongting Mountain near Suzhou. It features ancient temples, Biluochun tea plantations and traditional villages. Popular among hikers and photographers.

Dongting MountainScenic trails, temples and lake views.
Biluochun tea plantationsFamous green tea variety, tasting.
Ancient villageTraditional Ming‑dynasty architecture.
Zixian TempleAncient Taoist temple on the slope.

Practical information:

  • How to get there: High‑speed train from Shanghai to Suzhou (30 min), then bus to Dongting (1 hour).
  • Entrance: Lake area entry — 80 yuan.
  • Tip: Bring a snack and water – there are no cafes on the mountain.

Frequently asked questions about lakes near Shanghai

Which lake is best for a first‑time visit?

The best choice is West Lake in Hangzhou. It is a classic Chinese landscape that has inspired poets for centuries. Here you will find famous pagodas, temples and Longjing tea plantations. The lake is easily accessible by high‑speed train from Shanghai (1 hour).

When is the best time to visit Yangchenghu Lake for crab tasting?

Hairy crab season on Yangchenghu Lake lasts from October to November. At this time the crabs are at their fattest and most delicious. During other months you can enjoy the nature and eco‑parks, but the gastronomic focus is weaker.

How much does a trip to Qiandaohu Thousand Island Lake cost?

Entrance ticket to the Qiandaohu scenic area is 150 yuan, island cruise from 65 yuan. From Shanghai you can take a high‑speed train to Hangzhou (1 hour, 150 yuan), then a bus to Qiandaohu (2 hours, 70 yuan). Ready‑made tours with transfer from Shanghai start from 800 yuan per person.

Which lakes can be visited in one day from Shanghai?

In one day you can easily visit Taihu Lake (1.5–2 hours by car or bus), West Lake (high‑speed train 1 hour), Yangchenghu Lake (1.5 hours) or Shanghu Lake (1.5 hours). Qiandaohu is better left for 1.5–2 days due to its distance and full programme.

Do I need a visa to visit the lakes? Any special rules?

All the listed lakes are within China, so the usual entry rules apply. Russian citizens need a visa. There are no special restrictions on the lakes, but in temples (e.g., Lingyin Temple) please follow the rules: modest dress, silence, no flash photography.

🏞️ Practical tips for lake trips from Shanghai in 2026

TransportHigh‑speed trains are the fastest way. Buy tickets in advance via Trip.com or WeChat.
SeasonalityThe best time to visit is spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October). Summer is hot, but lotus flowers bloom.
What to bringComfortable walking shoes, hat, sunscreen, raincoat (weather is changeable).
FoodAll lakes have restaurants with local cuisine. Be sure to try fish from Taihu, crabs from Yangchenghu and Longjing tea at West Lake.

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