Thousand Island Lake

Qiandao Lake in Zhejiang is a place where nature’s beauty hides ancient secrets. Known as the “Thousand Island Lake,” it boasts more than 1,000 emerald islets scattered across crystal-clear waters. Beneath its calm surface lies the legendary Lion City, a 1,300-year-old metropolis perfectly preserved underwater — a true Atlantis of the East. Whether you’re cruising, diving, or simply soaking in the tranquil scenery, Qiandao Lake feels like stepping into another world. The Lion City (狮城 / Shī Chéng), also called Shi Cheng, is one of China’s most fascinating hidden treasures — a real-life “Atlantis of the East.” Here’s its history: ⸻ 🏯 Origins • Built during the Eastern Han Dynasty (25–200 CE), Lion City was a thriving cultural, political, and economic hub in Zhejiang Province. • It sat at the foot of Wu Shi Mountain (Five Lion Mountain), which is how it got its name. • At its peak, it had grand arches, temples, pavilions, roads, and intricate carvings that reflected traditional Chinese architecture. ⸻ 🌊 Submersion • In 1959, during China’s rapid modernization, the government built the Xin’an River Hydroelectric Station — the country’s first large dam project. • To create Qiandao Lake (Thousand Island Lake), the valley was deliberately flooded. • As a result, Lion City was submerged under 40 meters (130 ft) of water, along with several other ancient towns. ⸻ 🔍 Rediscovery • For decades, Lion City remained forgotten until 2001, when divers rediscovered it. • To their surprise, the city was astonishingly well preserved: walls, gates, stone carvings, and even wooden structures remained intact because the water shielded them from wind and erosion. ⸻ 🐉 Today • Lying silently beneath Qiandao Lake, Lion City is now one of the world’s most spectacular underwater heritage sites. • Specialized diving tours allow adventurous travelers to explore its arches, temples, and carvings, frozen in time for over 1,300 years. • It is often called China’s Atlantis, blending history, mystery, and natural beauty. ⸻ ✨ Fun fact: Because of its preservation, Lion City is now considered one of the best examples of underwater archaeology in the world. Highlights from Qiandao Lake • Island Hopping – Explore clusters of lush islands, each with its own charm, from Monkey Island to Snake Island. • Lion City Underwater Ruins – Dive or take a glass-bottom boat to glimpse the submerged city’s stone arches and carvings. • Scenic Cruises – Sail across jade-green waters, especially stunning at sunrise and sunset. • Local Delicacies – Taste fresh fish head soup, a regional specialty you won’t forget. 🌟 Travel Tips • Best Time to Visit: March–November for mild weather and lush scenery. • How to Reach: • From Hangzhou: About 2 hours by bus from Hangzhou West Bus Station to Qiandao Lake Town. High-speed trains from Hangzhou to Chun’an (Qiandao Lake Station) take just over 1 hour. • From Shanghai: Around 3–3.5 hours by high-speed train to Qiandao Lake Station. • By Car: Driving from Hangzhou is straightforward and offers scenic countryside views. • Activity Tip: Try diving tours for a close encounter with the submerged Lion City — truly one of a kind! #qiandaolake #thousandislandlake #hiddencity #chinatravel #natureandhistory