A weekend getaway to Qiandao Lake and Tongzi Town! A double treat of stunning natural scenery and delicious local cuisine.

⛰️ Looking for a weekend getaway that avoids crowds but still offers stunning lake views and authentic local flavors? This 2-day, 1-night itinerary to Qiandao Lake and Tongzi Town is simply divine! It combines the soothing beauty of "the most beautiful lake in the world" with the charm of a hidden gem of an ancient village. Relaxed and unhurried, it's perfect for busy professionals! 🍃 🗓️ Weekend Itinerary: Day 1: Qiandao Lake Core Activities (A Double Experience of Fresh Air and Thrills) ✨ - 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Meifeng Island Ascent: As the premier viewpoint of Qiandao Lake, the cable car ride to the top is breathtaking! Over 300 islands, like emeralds scattered across the lake, resemble a traditional Chinese ink painting when shrouded in mist. Every snapshot is a masterpiece, even without filters. For those with good stamina, try grass skiing and swooping down from the summit, the crisp, refreshing air carrying the scent of the lake. - 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Leisurely stroll and take photos in the Beer Town: The colorful European-style buildings have a fairytale feel, and the red and white lighthouse reflected in the lake is perfect for capturing Japanese film-like shots. For a thrill, try go-karting – 8 minutes for 150 yuan for a high-speed ride that will leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed. Alternatively, stroll along the wooden boardwalk, inhaling the slightly intoxicating aroma of fermenting malt – a truly pleasant experience. - 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Chase the sunset at Tianyu Mountain: Take the escalator to the summit. The setting sun paints the lake amber, gilding the islands. The "Blue Hour" is absolutely stunning – a must-see for photography enthusiasts. Be sure to head to the café terrace for a superb view; order a drink and enjoy the entire lake and sunset. - Dinner: Thousand Island Lake Fish Head Feast: A must-try is the milky white fish head soup, rich in fish maw, with an incredibly delicious flavor! Paired with homemade cornbread, crispy on the edges and savory with preserved mustard greens, it's a perfect accompaniment to rice. Located near the beer town, this farmhouse restaurant offers excellent value. 🏡 🗓️ Weekend Itinerary: Day 2 - Slow Travel in Tongzi Town (Ancient Village + In-Depth Food Experience) 🚗 - 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM Exploring Tongzi Town's Ancient Villages: About an hour's drive from Qiandao Lake, this place is free from commercial noise. Old houses with white walls and gray tiles are built along the stream, and a thousand-year-old camphor tree provides ample shade at the village entrance. Elders chat under the trees, and time seems to slow down. Stroll along the village paths, and you might stumble upon old workshops hidden in the alleys, where you can buy handmade dried bamboo shoots and local honey. - Lunch: Tongzi Specialty Flavors: Be sure to try the signature square bamboo shoot hot pot from the "Hometown of Chinese Square Bamboo Shoots"! It's an all-you-can-eat buffet for 15 yuan, featuring incredibly tender and juicy square bamboo shoots served in a broth with pork ribs and pig's trotters – a heartwarming and appetizing experience. For those who don't like spicy food, the clear broth is a great option, dipped in local chili powder – so delicious you won't be able to stop eating! - Afternoon 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Off-the-beaten-path Activities: For hiking enthusiasts, try the Chongliyu Mountain Trail. The stone-paved path is hidden in the shade of trees, gentle and easy, offering views of valleys and streams – a truly refreshing way to breathe in fresh air. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, find a local teahouse, order a cup of local green tea, and gaze at the beautiful scenery outside the window – perfect for daydreaming and relaxing. - Must-buy Souvenirs: Don't miss Tongzi crispy pork cracklings and handmade rice noodles! Crispy pork cracklings are a local specialty, made from pork belly lard that's fragrant, crispy, and tender—perfect with noodles or mixed vegetables. The rice noodles are chewy and springy; pack a few to take home for a convenient local breakfast experience. 📝 Practical Guide to Avoid Pitfalls - Transportation: A 2-hour drive from Hangzhou to Qiandao Lake, and a 1-hour drive from Qiandao Lake to Tongzi Town. Road conditions are excellent throughout. Alternatively, take the high-speed rail to Qiandao Lake Station and then take a taxi/rent a car for more flexibility. - Accommodation: It's recommended to stay near the Qiandao Lake Beer Town for easy access to Tongzi Town the next day. Some guesthouses offer free bicycle rentals, perfect for evening cycling around the lake. - Tips: Arrive early for the Meifeng Island cable car to avoid queues; Tongzi Town has many mosquitoes, so remember to bring mosquito repellent; for the most authentic bamboo shoot hot pot, choose a restaurant frequented by locals. This route offers both the stunning scenery of Qiandao Lake and the vibrant atmosphere of Tongzi Town. The pace is just right, allowing you to enjoy yourself fully on a weekend without feeling exhausted on the way back. Perfect for working professionals and students alike!