1 H from Zhejiang Province, I found the real-life version of Zelda

### **Shenxian Lake Eco Park Premium Travel Guide** **📍Location**: Yuanhua Town, Haining, Jiaxing, Zhejiang **🌟Highlights**: A transformed abandoned quarry known as the "Sapphire Lake," featuring wild Nordic fjord-like beauty, the martial arts legacy of Jin Yong's hometown, and a blend of ecological and artistic charm. --- ### **🏞️ Must-Do Experiences** 1. **Lakeside Hiking**: A 7 km trail with water that shifts between blue and green under changing light, offering an aerial view reminiscent of "The Legend of Zelda." 2. **Boating on the Lake**: Rent a small boat to get up close to the emerald waters, with Nordic-style cliffs reflected on the surface—perfect for photos. 3. **Birdwatching Tower**: Spot rare birds like the Eurasian coot, ideal for photography. 4. **Lakeside Camping & Picnics**: Pitch a tent on the grassy shore for stargazing on clear days or a post-apocalyptic vibe on rainy ones. 5. **"Shenka" Café**: A lakeside glasshouse where you can sip coffee while soaking in the views, a hotspot for artsy crowds from Shanghai and Hangzhou. --- ### **🍽️ Food Recommendations** - **Farmhouse Cuisine**: Try steamed fish and lotus leaf-wrapped steamed pork at nearby rural eateries, featuring fresh local ingredients. - **Haining Snacks**: On your way back, visit Yanguan Ancient Town for braised duck and sticky rice dumplings. - **Lakeside Afternoon Tea**: Enjoy a latte with lake views at "Shenka" for ultimate relaxation. --- ### **🏨 Accommodation Picks** 1. **Haining New Century Grand Hotel** (30 min drive, downtown): A 5-star hotel with top-notch amenities for comfort seekers. 2. **Yanguan Ancient Town B&Bs** (20 min drive): Traditional Jiangnan water-town style, perfect for evening strolls. 3. **Camping**: For nature immersion, bring your gear or check out the newly opened lakeside cabins. --- ### **📌 Pro Tips** - **Transport**: 1.5-hour drive from Hangzhou/Shanghai. Navigate to "Shenxian Lake Eco Park" for free parking (arrive early on weekends). - **Best Season**: Spring and autumn for the bluest waters; summer for lotus blooms; winter for solitude. - **Safety**: Some areas lack guardrails—avoid climbing quarry cliffs. **✨ Final Note**: Shenxian Lake is a miracle of ecological restoration, blending ruggedness and serenity. Ideal for unwinding, photography, or martial arts fans. A short escape from the city, it’s your own hidden paradise.