Qiandaohu (千岛湖) – Lake of Thousand Islands
Qiandaohu (literally “Lake of Thousand Islands”) is the largest artificial lake in China, formed after the construction of the Xin'anjiang Dam in 1959. 1,078 scenic islands of various shapes are scattered across crystal‑clear water, which is called “the best in the world”. It is an ideal place for nature recreation, boat trips and getting to know the culture of the region.
In one day we will visit three main islands: Meifeng (best panorama), Longshan (historical temple and museum) and Kongming (cultural centre). You will climb the observation tower, walk through pine forests and taste the famous lake fish.
Main attractions
What awaits you
- Early morning departure from Shanghai – meeting at Hongqiao station, boarding a high‑speed train to Qiandaohu (≈2 hours).
- Arrival at Qiandaohu station – taxi transfer to the pier (≈15 minutes).
- Boat cruise on the lake – visiting three islands: Meifeng, Longshan, Kongming. On each – free time for sightseeing and photos.
- Climb the observation tower on Meifeng Island – postcard view of hundreds of islands (you can walk up or take the cable car).
- Lunch at a restaurant on the island or on the shore – tasting the famous lake fish (dish “sweet‑sour fish”).
- Visit to the Hai Rui Museum on Longshan Island – learning about Ming dynasty history.
- Free time on the promenade – you can walk along the cycle path or go to souvenir shops.
- Return to the station and train to Shanghai – evening train, arrival around 22:00.
Approximate one‑day Qiandaohu tour program (by car)
*Times may be adjusted depending on traffic and weather.
| Time | Program stage | Details and transport |
|---|---|---|
| 05:00 | Meeting at Xinzhuang station | Meeting with the guide/driver at the metro exit (lines 1, 5). Board the car. Meeting here to avoid driving through central Shanghai traffic jams. |
| 05:00–05:15 | Departure and merge onto the highway | From Xinzhuang we take G60 (Shanghai–Kunming), then switch to G25 or S32 towards Hangzhou / Qiandaohu. |
| 05:15–09:45 | Drive to Qiandaohu | Estimated time 4–4.5 hours (no serious traffic jams). Distance ~330 km. One stop for refuelling/toilet. |
| 09:45–10:00 | Parking at the central pier | Find parking, pay, prepare for the boat trip. |
| 10:00–13:00 | Boat trip (shortened route) | Boat ticket ~200¥. Due to late arrival we choose a short route: Meifeng Island (1.5 h) + Longshan Island (1 h), without Kongming Island. Alternatively, a catamaran on a custom route. |
| 13:00–13:45 | Lunch | Restaurant on the island or on the shore. We recommend ordering fish soup or fried fish (≈80¥). |
| 13:45–14:45 | Walk along the promenade | Short walk along the lake, photo session. |
| 14:45–15:15 | Return departure | Return to the car, leave Qiandaohu. |
| 15:15–20:00 | Drive back to Shanghai | Travel time 4–4.5 hours, taking into account evening traffic on the approach. Possible stop for a snack. |
| 20:00 | Arrival at Xinzhuang station | End of the program, everyone returns to the meeting point. |
💡 Important notes for the car trip to Qiandaohu:
- Meeting at Xinzhuang is chosen specifically to bypass traffic jams in central Shanghai.
- The road is very long (4+ hours one way). Make sure everyone is ready for a long drive. We recommend bringing water, snacks and neck pillows.
- The boat trip will be shortened due to late arrival. If you want the full route (3 islands) – you need to leave at 04:00 or consider an overnight stay in Qiandaohu.
- Toll roads: G60, G25, S32 – bring cash or use ETC.
- Sunscreen and windbreaker – on the water the sun is strong, on the boat it is windy.
- Comfortable shoes – there are stairs and trails on the islands.
Cost and conditions
Tour cost
Train/taxi
EconomyGuide services, help with train ticket purchase, route planning, accompaniment all day. Transfer to/from stations – on your own.
By car
ComfortGuide services + sedan rental (up to 3 persons) for the whole day, including transfer from Shanghai to the lake and back.
Approximate expenses per person
- Train Shanghai–Qiandaohu (round trip) ~300¥ (~42$)
- Taxi from station to pier (round trip) ~60¥ (~8$)
- Boat ticket (sightseeing tour of the islands) ~200¥ (~28$)
- Meals (lunch + light dinner) ~150¥ (~21$)
Duration
Additional services
Frequently asked questions
Important information
The indicated prices are valid at the time of offer for private individuals. The cost and availability of train tickets, hotels and guide services may change.
Booking services is made only after receiving a prepayment. The conversion rate is calculated at the current exchange rate.
If cancellation occurs less than 7 days before the start of the event, the payment is non‑refundable.
In case of train cancellation due to weather conditions, we will offer alternative dates or refund the prepayment for guide services (transport tickets are refunded according to the carrier's rules).
