Dongqian Lake is stunning! I'm so envious of everyone in Ningbo.
Hey everyone 👋, I'm back from another adventure~ This time I went to Dongqian Lake in Ningbo, and I was absolutely speechless at its beauty! I couldn't wait to share my travel experience with you all 📝
📍Location
Dongqian Lake is located in Yinzhou District, Ningbo. It's the largest natural freshwater lake in Zhejiang Province and is known for its "West Lake charm and Tai Lake grandeur." The scenery is simply breathtaking 🌊
🚗Transportation
1. Public Transportation: I took the high-speed train to Ningbo Station, then took bus No. 906 from the Ningbo Railway Station South Square bus stop, which took me directly to the Dongqian Lake area. Super convenient! However, the bus can be a bit slow, so if you're in a hurry, consider the following option.
2. Taxi: Take a taxi directly from Ningbo Station to Dongqian Lake. It takes about 30–40 minutes and costs around CNY 60–80. If you're traveling with a group, splitting the fare is quite reasonable.
🎯Itinerary
1. Morning: Visit the Xiaoputuo Scenic Area. As soon as you enter, you'll see a long lake embankment. Walk along the embankment, and the sparkling lake water will be right beside you, shimmering like countless diamonds ✨. There are also many small pavilions where you can rest and enjoy the lake view.
2. Noon: After leaving the scenic area, there are many places to eat nearby. Grab a delicious meal and recharge 🍱
3. Afternoon: Head to Hanling Old Street. This place is full of ancient charm, with bluestone roads and wooden buildings, giving off a strong Jiangnan water town vibe. There are various small shops on both sides of the street, selling handicrafts like exquisite wood carvings and embroidery, as well as tons of snack shops. It's a perfect place to stroll and snack 😋
4. Evening: Watch the sunset at Taogong Island 🌇. Standing on the island, you can overlook the entire Dongqian Lake. The afterglow of the setting sun sprinkles on the lake's surface, where the water meets the sky. The view is absolutely breathtaking.
💡Travel Tips
1. Don't forget sunscreen! The sun at Dongqian Lake is quite strong, so be sure to protect yourself from getting sunburned. Hats 🧢, sunscreen, and sunglasses 🕶 are essential.
2. Bring some snacks to keep your energy up while exploring the scenic area. Remember to dispose of your trash properly and protect the environment~
3. If you plan to have a picnic by the lake, bring a picnic blanket. The grass by the lake is large and soft, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal with friends while admiring the lake view.
4. Check the weather forecast in advance. Dongqian Lake is even more beautiful on sunny days, and you'll get better photos.
🍱Food
1. Ningbo Tangyuan: A must-try! The outer skin is soft and chewy, and when you bite into it, the sweet black sesame filling flows out. It's sweet but not greasy, simply delicious.
2. Youzanzi: Freshly made Youzanzi is golden and crispy, making a satisfying crunch when you bite into it. It comes in sweet and savory flavors. I bought both and couldn't stop eating them.
3. Steamed White Crab: The local seafood is very fresh. The white crab meat is tender, and steaming it preserves its fresh flavor to the fullest. Each bite is pure bliss 🦀
🏠Accommodation
1. Hotels near Dongqian Lake: There are many star-rated hotels with excellent environments, complete facilities, and convenient locations near the scenic area. However, the prices are relatively high, ranging from CNY 500–1,000 per night.
2. B&Bs: There are also many unique B&Bs around Dongqian Lake, with various decoration styles, including minimalist and rural styles. The prices are more affordable, ranging from CNY 200–500 per night. Some B&Bs offer lake views, allowing you to wake up to the beautiful Dongqian Lake.
Dongqian Lake is truly a hidden gem for travel, with beautiful scenery, delicious food, and a relaxing atmosphere. What are you waiting for? Plan your trip now 😘