[2025 Jiande Attraction] Travel Guide for Xin'an River Scenic Area (Updated May)

It's too hot in Zhejiang in the summer. I thought I was coming to Jiande to escape the heat. I didn't expect that it would still be hot everywhere except by the Xin'an River. It only gets much cooler by the river after the fog rolls in around 4–5pm. So, the riverside after the fog rolls in at dusk is amazing, picturesque, and pleasant! I was still very lucky this summer. I saw a solar halo and a sea of clouds in Shennongjia, and I saw the unique White Sand Fog while taking a boat ride on the Xin'an River at midday with a cool (or rather, cold) breeze. Jiande is great, and there are many other fun places to visit. I'll come again next time!

[Impressions of Qiandao Lake: A Thousand Faces, Naturally Elegant] Upon first encountering Qiandao Lake, one is immediately struck by the spectacular sight of its 1,078 scattered islands. This "most beautiful water under heaven," formed by the Xin'an River Hydropower Station reservoir, boasts the vastness of 3,184 West Lakes and harbors the mysterious history of submerged ancient cities. The lake water is as clear as emerald, the islands layered like jade. When shrouded in mist, it resembles a scroll of ink painting; when the sky is clear, the silhouettes of the islands reflect in the lake, creating an interplay of light and shadow that seems to fold time and space. [Must-See Attractions: A Feast for Both Nature and Culture Lovers] 1. Meifeng Island Viewing: Panoramic Views from the Clouds Highlights: A 360° glass walkway overlooks more than 300 islands. When the morning mist lingers, the islands appear and disappear like apparitions. The "Thousand Island Star Trails" captured from a drone's perspective is a true visual spectacle. Tips: Climb the mountain before 6:30 am to avoid crowds. The Yunwu Tea House halfway up the mountain offers a Song Dynasty tea ceremony experience, where you can savor the lingering sweetness of Jiukeng Maojian tea brewed with Qiandao Lake water. 2. Wenyan Lion City: An Underwater Time Capsule Highlights: A replica of the Hui-style ancient city submerged in 1959. A 7D cinema recreates the relocation scenes, and the evening light show features memorial archways dancing on the water's surface. Tips: Capture the reflections in the water during the evening blue hour. On Saturday evenings, listen to descendants of relocated residents share stories about their family's house numbers. 3. Southeast Lake District: An Ecological Sanctuary Huangshan Peak: Ascend to admire the natural arrangement of islands forming the phrase "Tianxia Weigong" (The world is for all). Tianchi Island: Stroll through tea plantations, explore caves, and witness the geological evolution through holographic projections. Tips: Bring a telephoto lens to capture the agile moments of silver pheasants and macaques. Avoid wearing bright clothing to prevent disturbing the animals. 4. Lakeside Greenway: A Cycling Paradise A 150-kilometer stretch of "China's most beautiful cycling path" connects cherry blossom tunnels and red maple water corridors. Transparent kayaks glide through the water forest, and in autumn, red leaves and blue waters create a poetic scene. [In-Depth Experiences: Local Culture and Culinary Delights] Lake Fresh Feast: Qiandao Lake fish head soup (Yuweiguan Restaurant, set meal for approx. ¥48 per person), white croaker fish, and corn cakes, paired with freshly ground osmanthus root starch, offer a taste of the bounty of the mountains and waters. Nighttime Illusions: Take a boat tour to admire the lakeshore light show, or wait for the sunset to sink into the islands from the cantilevered viewing platform at Tianyu Mountain. The glass walkway is illuminated with starlight at night. Intangible Cultural Heritage Handicrafts: Create maple leaf bookmarks through rubbing techniques and experience the life of a fisherman, appreciating the dedication of skilled artisans. [History and Culture: From Hydraulic Marvel to Ecological Model] Qiandao Lake was originally the Xin'an River Reservoir. After its impoundment in 1959, it submerged the thousand-year-old cities of Chun'an and Suian. The "He Cheng" and "Shi Cheng" cities still lie dormant at the bottom of the lake, but the replica of Wenyan Lion City brings history within reach. Once a golden waterway for Hui merchants, it is now renowned as a "model for lake tourism in China." From its designation as the first national scenic spot in the 1980s to its 5A rating in 2010, it has witnessed the rise of ecological tourism in China. [Travel Reflections: Healing through Nature and Self-Discovery] At Qiandao Lake, time seems to slow down. Drift in a boat through the morning mist, listening to the oars break the silence; cycle along the greenway in the afternoon, letting the wind caress your hair; sit alone by the lake at dusk, watching the sunset paint the water amber. Here, there is no urban clamor, only the murmur of the islands and the whispers of the lake. As twilight paints the last ripples red, Qiandao Lake teaches us: the most beautiful scenery often appears unexpectedly after a journey over mountains and valleys. [Practical Tips: 2025 Updated Guide] Transportation: The Hang-Huang High-Speed Railway's "Qiandao Lake Express" provides direct access (2 hours from Shanghai, 1 hour from Hangzhou). New smart parking lots along the ring road offer scannable QR codes for checking parking availability. Accommodation: For luxury, choose the "Fisherman's Home" floating hotel (wake up to fishing for your breakfast); for value, choose the "Cloud and Mist" loft (balcony facing the moonlit islands). Things to Avoid: Book VR experiences in advance through the mini-program. The popular glass boat has a weight limit of 80 kg. Environmentally friendly fish food must be purchased from designated vendors. Qiandao Lake is a poem woven from nature and culture, a stage for dialogue between history and modernity, and a haven for urban dwellers seeking respite from the hustle and bustle. If you are tired of fast-paced travel, come here to let nature heal your body and mind, and let time settle into memories.

The Xin'an River originates in Huizhou, Anhui Province, flows into Qiandao Lake in Chun'an, Zhejiang Province, passes through the Xin'an River Hydropower Station, flows to Jiande City and Tonglu County, enters Meicheng Ancient Town in Fuyang District, and merges with the Lan River to form the Fuchun River. The spring water flows eastward, reaching Wenjiayan in Xiaoshan District, where it merges with the Puyang River to form the Qiantang River. The Fuchun River—Xin'an River—Qiandao Lake Scenic Area is located in an area stretching from Chun'an to Fuyang. In 1982, it was approved by the State Council and included in the first batch of national scenic spots. The Xin'an River is the mother river of Jiande. The scenery on both sides is beautiful, and the river is clear and green, known for its unique river scenery and year-round constant temperature water. Because the river water flows out from the bottom of Qiandao Lake, it maintains a temperature between 12 and 17 degrees Celsius throughout the year, making it warm in winter and cool in summer. The encounter of the constant temperature water and the changeable air temperature creates an extraordinary spectacle: the white gauze mist. The surface of the Xin'an River is often shrouded in a layer of light veil-like mist, which varies in thickness and height, ethereal and dreamlike, resembling a fairyland. Whether it's the misty river in the morning or the afterglow of the setting sun in the evening, the Xin'an River displays a unique charm and flavor unlike any other river tour. 📍Detailed Address: Huangrao Peninsula area, Xiaya Town, Jiande City, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province

1. Jiande, Zhejiang: 👍Features: As a county-level city of Hangzhou, Jiande differs from water towns like Tongli, Xitang, and Wuzhen. Located in western Zhejiang's mountainous region at the confluence of Xin'an River, Lan River, and Fuchun River, the morning mist over Xin'an River creates a mystical atmosphere, making it a "17°C cool summer retreat." 🚗Transportation: About 50 minutes by high-speed rail from Hangzhou, or within 2 hours from Shanghai. 📍Itinerary suggestion: Perfect for a two-day, one-night trip. Day 1: Visit Meicheng Ancient Town, climb Chengqing Gate for views of the old town and Xin'an River; evening stroll along Xin'an River to enjoy the natural air conditioning. Day 2: Visit Water Metasequoia Forest Park to breathe in the fresh air of this natural oxygen bar. 📸Attractions: - Meicheng Ancient Town: Experience historical charm with ancient town on one side and Xin'an River on the other, offering panoramic views. - Xin'an River: Maintains 17°C year-round; boat rides feel like being in natural air conditioning. Best time for misty views is early morning and evening. - Water Metasequoia Forest Park: Therapeutic scenery, perfect for camping, water activities, and family outings. 🏘Accommodation: Consider Jiande Jinglan Xin'an River Resort Hotel for affordable stays. 🍔Food recommendations: Sandu mochi, tofu buns, beef vermicelli, corn cake, fish balls, crystal cake. 2. Anji, Zhejiang: 👍Features: Located in Huzhou, Anji boasts lush vegetation, serves as a perfect summer retreat for Shanghai-Jiangsu-Zhejiang area, and houses Asia's largest natural history museum alongside numerous natural attractions. 🚗Transportation: About 1 hour from Hangzhou, 2.5 hours from Shanghai. Suitable for self-driving or renting a car after taking high-speed rail. 📍Itinerary suggestion: Day 1: Visit Zhejiang Natural History Museum Anji Branch, then head to Changgu Dotian for waterfalls and bamboo rafting. Day 2: Explore Daqi Mountain Forest Park for nature walks. 📸Attractions: - Zhejiang Natural History Museum Anji Branch: Perfect for families and nature enthusiasts, great indoor summer escape. - Changgu Dotian: Features spectacular Longtan Waterfall with popular swing photo spot beneath. - Daqi Mountain Forest Park: Known as "Little Jiuzhaigou of Hangzhou," featuring peaks, waterfalls, bamboo forests, and streams. 🏘Accommodation: Recommended stays include Taoyuan Qi Pool Villa Hot Spring Resort, Anji Yunyin Lakeside Villa, and Ye Zai Dali Gourmet Bamboo Forest Luxury Villa. 🍔Food recommendations: Dan Tiao noodles, Zhao Meili hot pot, Chan Ama rice crust, Lao Ye baked pancakes, Ziyan noodle house, Mi Hang shop, pine soup dumplings. 3. Siming Mountain, Ningbo: 👍Features: One of the most popular self-driving destinations in the Shanghai-Jiangsu-Zhejiang area, featuring beautiful natural landscapes and late cherry blossoms in April. 🚗Transportation: Best reached by car, with various activities along provincial roads to choose from based on time and interests. 📍Itinerary suggestion: One-day self-driving tour starting from Siming Lake, visiting Baishui Waterfall and Siming Mountain Observation Deck, enjoying local cuisine in Dalan Town, then heading to Shangmagang Cherry Blossom Base for late cherry blossoms. Extended trips to Zhongcun or Xikou available if time permits. 📸Attractions: - Siming Lake: Crystal clear waters surrounded by beautiful scenery, perfect for photography. - Baishui Waterfall: Impressive high-drop waterfall with rushing waters. - Shangmagang Cherry Blossom Base: Hillsides covered in late cherry blossoms from early to mid-April, creating picturesque scenes. 🏘Accommodation: Various affordable farmstays and guesthouses available nearby. 🍔Food recommendations: Liangnong cake, Siming Mountain bamboo shoots, Yuyao yellow croaker noodles.

The Baisha Bridge is located over the Xin'an River in Jiande City, Zhejiang Province. It is a magnificent bluestone bridge built in 1960. The bridge is 362 meters long, 24 meters high, and 11 meters wide. The main bridge has six arches, each with a main span of 50 meters, forming a slight arc. The railings are carved with 256 large and small stone lions, each with a unique and lifelike expression. Construction of the Baisha Bridge began on September 1, 1959. Because the Xin'an River Dam had already been closed, the water level was low, creating favorable construction conditions. The project progressed rapidly, with the foundation work for the six piers completed in just 42 days. During construction, workers overcame difficulties such as the lack of large-scale machinery and equipment, and through technical innovation and teamwork, they efficiently completed the construction tasks. On May 2, 1960, the Ministry of Communications held a "National On-site Meeting for the Rapid Construction of Large-Span Stone Arch Bridges" in Jiande, showcasing the construction experience and achievements of the Baisha Bridge. The design of the Baisha Bridge combines the structural features of the Zhaozhou Bridge and the Lugou Bridge, resulting in a light, lively, and magnificent structure. The bridge body is made of bluestone slabs, making it both sturdy and aesthetically pleasing. The railings on both sides of the bridge deck are carved with 252 small stone lions, enhancing the decorative and ornamental value of the bridge. The Baisha Bridge is not only an important link and landmark connecting the two banks of the Xin'an River, but also a provincial cultural relic protection unit due to its historical and cultural value. Despite the vicissitudes of time, the Baisha Bridge still retains its charm and has become a beautiful scenic spot in the area.

So much fun💕💕 I really like coming to the 17°C Xin'an River to experience a different kind of beauty~ Here's my travel guide for everyone🔖 ⭐In the morning of the first day, we went to Yanzhou Ancient City, checked in at Longshan Academy, the ancient city wall, South Street, and Zhengda Street. It has the charm of an ancient town in the south of the Yangtze River, great for taking photos and checking in, and there are many special local foods to eat ⭐In the afternoon, we went to the Xiya Wetland Station for cycling and encountered many beautiful places, pastoral scenes, and a sea of flowers, which were simply stunning ⭐In the evening, we checked in at the Dreamy Xin'an River and the Rainbow Bridge. The unique water temperature and air temperature difference at the 17°C Xin'an River formed the Baisha Miracle Fog, with the river water shining in multiple colors, a beautiful scenery that made me so happy to witness all these beautiful sights in one day!!! 🌸In the morning of the second day, we went to the Daciyan, the number one hanging temple in the south of the Yangtze River, checked in at Qingyin Pavilion, the Double-sided Buddha, etc. The national 4A-level scenic spot is really different, with a 5D broken screen effect, where every step you take blooms with beauty, exploring the valley stream, viewing the natural standing Buddha, I was completely shocked 🌸In the afternoon, we checked in at two places, the underground art palace Lingqi Cave and the Jiangnan Karst scenic area. There are many small check-in spots inside, Lingquan Cave, Bai Chi Yao Terrace, underground garden... There are many fun projects inside, absolutely amazing👍🏻 I'm writing this and I want to go again!!

A refreshing journey to an ancient city! Truly an unforgettable trip~ Day 1 Morning: In the morning, we stepped into Yanzhou Ancient City, the heart of Meicheng, harboring stories of more than 1700 years. Feeling the weight of history, we strolled through Longshan Academy and climbed the ancient city wall to gaze into the distance. Afternoon: In the afternoon, we arrived at Xiaya Wetland Station and started a spring cycling tour! Along the 20-kilometer cycling route, we enjoyed the freshness of nature and the freedom of the wind. Evening: As night fell, we walked along the banks of the Xin'an River, admiring the deep blue river and the brilliant night scene. Strolling along, the colorful lights sparkled, and the river shimmered with a kaleidoscope of colors, as if we were in a fairyland. Day 2 Morning: In the early morning, we came to Daci Rock, which blends Buddhist culture with the landscape, resembling a tranquil and peaceful painting. Closing our eyes in contemplation, we felt the serenity of our souls. This trip was filled with memories and emotions, allowing us to return with a treasure trove of happy memories and a precious time.

Today, let's explore the 17°C Jiande Xin'an River, let's get started!🌿 Day 1 In the morning, we will first visit Yanzhou Ancient City, which was once the only prefectural city between Huizhou and Hangzhou, and it has a history of more than 1700 years! Step into Longshan Academy and feel the ancient charm of the old city walls. In the afternoon, let's get exciting! Start a spring cycling tour, with the starting point at Xiaya Wetland Station, ride for 20 kilometers, and enjoy the fresh air of nature and the warm sunshine of spring. In the evening, take a stroll along the Xin'an River, admire the night view of the riverside, with colorful lights overflowing, and the river shining in various colors, making you feel a different kind of beauty. Day 2 In the morning, we will visit Daci Rock, which integrates Buddhist culture with the landscape, purifies the soul, and feels the tranquility of nature. In the afternoon, explore Lingqi Cave! Lingqi Cave consists of Lingquan, Qingfeng, Ai Yun three caves, and a stone forest maze, it is a mysterious place for adventure, let's explore the fantasy within it together! Come and join the travel team! Let your soul leave beautiful memories at the refreshing 17°C Xin'an River!💫

On the Xin'an River in the morning, the mist was not exhausted, and a small wooden boat sailed to the dock. At the bow of the boat, there was a senior man wearing a hat. The boat was on the side of the harbor. The old man cleaned up the garbage in the cabin. The garbage was salvaged from Xin'an River. In order to ensure the water quality and beauty of Jiande Xin'an River, he I start working very early every day. Xin'anjiang originates from Xiuning County of Huangshan City and enters the western part of Zhejiang Province in the east. It passes through Chun'an to Jiande and Lanjiang, and the northeast flows into Qiantang River. It is the source of Qiantang River. Xinanjiang is known for its beauty. The rivers are clear in the four seasons and are crystal clear. On both sides of the Jiajiang River, the mountains are crowded, the Cuigang is overlapping, the mountains are different, and the valley is full of waterfalls. Tang Meng Haoran Shi Yun: "The lake is wide and the cave is wide, and the river enters Xin'anqing." There are Baisha Bridge, Zhuchi, Luofengshan, Meicheng, Liu Changqing Villa, and Twin Tower Lingyun along the river. As a national-level scenic spot, Xin'anjiang is known as the Qingshan Yishui, the world is unique. Today, it has the reputation of cool world and is a famous Tang poetry road. The Xinanjiang water dragon boat rafting is mainly based on the dragon boat shun Xin'an River rafting, with the main features of Looking at the wild nature and feeling the cultural heritage of Xin'anjiang. Sitting on the dragon boat, looking at the scenery on both sides of the strait, the landscape is getting closer and closer, and the dragon boat seems to have been integrated into this beautiful landscape painting. Because of the Xin'anjiang Reservoir, it is today's JiandeXin'an River, which is also the 17th degree of Jiande. Sitting on a dragon boat, I want to feel this rare cool, so I put my hand deep into the water, a trace

The first stop of Jiande Tourism is the 17-degree mountain water sports base, where 17° wind is blowing and 17° water temperature is felt. You can take a thrilling motorboat or play a watercraft banana boat. Of course, you can also sail a sailboat, so in the seventeen-degree water world, are you heart-warming?

The landscape lights on both sides of the strait show us a unique landscape of Xin'anjiang, accompanied by the thin clouds of the mountains and rivers, like dreams, like a fairyland. I have seen the night view of the Bund in Shanghai many times. If the night view of Shanghai is a graceful and fashionable lady, the stars are a little bit, and the jewelry is awkward; then the night view of Xinan River is a fairy breeze, like a dream. Like a fairy weaving yarn, it gives us unlimited solitude and ethereality.

At the Fengyuexuan Wharf, standing in the pavilion, Xin'anjiang's 17-degree water temperature and the hot air in the air blend with each other, atomizing into steam, dreaming like a dream, the river is looming in the misty whiteness. "The cool water world, the dream of Xin'anjiang", a piece of Jiangnan ink painting is natural and unforgettable. In a short while, a dragon boat broke through the fog and opened it like a dragon in the water, flying up and down, scratching the quiet river surface and turning it out.