Imagine a hidden underwater city, misty islands rising from crystal-clear waters, and legends waiting to be discovered—welcome to Qiandaohu, or Thousand Island Lake, in China. This breathtaking reservoir isn’t just a scenic wonder; it’s a site steeped in culture and history, captivating travelers and locals alike. In this article, we’ll unravel the fascinating story of Qiandaohu: its origin, cultural significance, and the myths it inspires.
Join us for a journey beneath the surface—there’s much more to Qiandaohu than meets the eye!
Discovering Qiandaohu (Thousand Island Lake), China
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Nestled in the verdant heart of Zhejiang Province, Qiandaohu—known in English as Thousand Island Lake—is one of China’s best-kept natural secrets. With its shimmering waters and backdrop of forested hills, the lake invites visitors to a tranquil escape from urban bustle. But Qiandaohu is much more than a pretty landscape; it is a site rich with history, symbolism, and cultural significance in Chinese life today.
The Origins and History of Qiandaohu
Qiandaohu is unique among China’s famed natural sites because of its origin: it is a man-made lake. In the late 1950s, as part of China’s drive toward modernization, the Xin’an River was dammed to create the Xin’anjiang Hydropower Station. This project led to the intentional flooding of over 570 square kilometers, forming the expansive lake we see today.
Underneath Qiandaohu’s glassy surface lies a submerged world, including the ancient city of Shicheng, sometimes called the “Atlantis of the East.” Shicheng, dating back nearly two millennia, sits preserved beneath the water, a silent witness to China’s rapid transformation in the 20th century. The creation of the lake required the relocation of hundreds of thousands of people, reshaping communities and landscapes.
The Thousand Islands: A Landscape of Wonder
Qiandaohu’s name is no exaggeration. Over 1,000 islands—each lush and teeming with life—dot its surface. The official count is 1,078 islands rising above water level, making it the lake with the most islands in the world. These islands vary greatly in size, with some as large as a small town and others little more than rocky outcrops, just big enough to support a single tree or patch of shrubs.
The islands themselves are often named for their shapes or the legends they inspire—Monkey Island, Lock Island, Snake Island, and more. Between these are the shimmering blue-green waters, considered some of the clearest and cleanest in China.
Cultural Meaning and Symbolism
In Chinese culture, water and islands often symbolize peace, balance, and harmony. Lakes are traditionally seen as places where natural beauty fosters clarity of thought and spiritual well-being. Qiandaohu, with its unique creation story and submerged ancient city, holds a double meaning: a symbol of both the sacrifices and progress of modern China and the awe-inspiring power of nature.
The lake’s islands have inspired poetry, paintings, and countless legends. Some believe they represent spiritual refuge—tiny paradises dotted across the expanse of daily life. In literature and art, scenes of lakes with scattered islands often evoke feelings of nostalgia, longing, and serenity.
Qiandaohu in Traditions, Festivals, and Daily Life
Although Qiandaohu’s origins are relatively recent, the region surrounding the lake has long been culturally rich. Today, the lake has become an important destination for family outings and commemorative moments, like weddings or annual reunions. During Chinese public holidays such as the May Day or National Day, thousands of visitors flock to Qiandaohu for relaxation and natural beauty.
Local communities celebrate the abundance provided by the lake. Fisheries thrive, and Qiandaohu is known for its freshwater fish, particularly carp. Traditional dishes featuring this prized catch have become famous throughout Zhejiang Province and beyond.
The clean water is also a source of local pride and economic benefit—Qiandaohu’s bottled drinking water is marketed as “the best water in China” and is sold in major cities across the country.
Variations and Related Concepts
Qiandaohu is often compared to other famous “Thousand Island Lakes” across the globe, but few match its sheer number of islands or its lush environment. Within China, the lake forms part of the larger Xin’an River watershed, which is celebrated for its picturesque scenery.
Several tourist zones within Qiandaohu offer different experiences:
- Central Lake District: Home to the most popular islands, with cultural sites and scenic trails.
- Southeast Lake District: Known for its relative tranquility and opportunities to observe wildlife.
- Northeast Lake District: More remote and undeveloped, visited by those seeking lakeside serenity and authentic rural culture.
Celebrations and Representations
Qiandaohu is a mainstay in Chinese travel brochures, beloved for its misty mornings and endless island vistas. Boat tours are a cherished tradition, offering visitors a chance to land on various islands—each with its own character, gardens, and temples.
Photography contests, painting festivals, and dragon boat races take place on the lake throughout the year. These activities foster a deep sense of community and pride, connecting local culture to the broader appreciation of the natural world.
Underwater, the ancient city of Shicheng has become a fascination for divers from China and around the world. Scuba diving tours reveal preserved pagodas, archways, and roads—an extraordinary time capsule of traditional Chinese urban life, now eerily silent beneath the waves.
Interesting Facts and Legends
- World Record Holder: Qiandaohu holds the world record for the lake with the most islands.
- Submerged Cities: Besides Shicheng, several other smaller villages lie underwater, making the lake a hotspot for historical research and underwater exploration.
- Legend of the Islands: Locals say the islands are the scattered pearls of a celestial dragon, dropped when it flew over the area.
- Clean Water: Qiandaohu is renowned for its water quality, feeding both local communities and big cities like Hangzhou with pristine drinking water.
- Ecological Haven: Over 80% of the region is covered by forests. In some parts, forest coverage on the islands themselves exceeds 90%, providing a haven for diverse wildlife.
Qiandaohu’s Modern Relevance
Today, Qiandaohu is a symbol of modern China’s balancing act between development and environmental stewardship. It is celebrated for both its recreational value and its role as a key water resource. As environmental awareness rises, Qiandaohu’s clean waters and thriving ecosystems serve as a model for conservation efforts throughout the country.
The lake is easily accessible from major cities like Hangzhou and Shanghai, making it a popular destination for domestic travelers seeking respite. Its economic role extends beyond tourism: bottled water from Qiandaohu is seen as a status symbol, and the region’s fish and agricultural products are exported nationwide.
In recent years, outdoor sports such as cycling, hiking, kayaking, and even open-water swimming have flourished. Events such as eco-marathons and triathlons are bringing a new generation of nature lovers to the lake’s shores.
The Hidden Mysteries Below
Qiandaohu’s magic is not just above water. The submerged city of Shicheng attracts divers, filmmakers, and historians intrigued by its remarkable preservation. Stone archways, wooden beams, and carvings lie almost untouched. This site offers insights into the lives of those who lived in the valley before the 1950s—and serves as a reminder of the costs of progress.
The Future of Qiandaohu
Qiandaohu faces challenges from increased tourism and the need for sustainable management. Authorities and local communities are working to preserve water quality and ecological health, ensuring that future generations can enjoy what many call “the most beautiful lake in China.”
As China continues to modernize, the story of Qiandaohu stands as a testament to both the resilience of its people and the enduring promise of renewal—where ancient culture and modern aspirations float side by side on a lake of a thousand islands.
Conclusion
Qiandaohu is more than a scenic wonder—it is a living symbol of China’s natural beauty, cultural adaptability, and drive toward a harmonious coexistence of past and present. Whether you’re drawn to its tranquil waters, fascinated by its hidden history, or inspired by its potential for future generations, Thousand Island Lake offers an experience both deeply Chinese and universally moving.
FAQ
What is Qiandaohu (Thousand Island Lake)?
Qiandaohu, or Thousand Island Lake, is a vast man-made reservoir in Zhejiang Province, China, famed for its clear waters and over 1,000 forested islands. It was created in 1959–1960 by damming the Xin’an River for hydropower.
How was Qiandaohu formed?
The lake was formed when the Xin’an River was dammed to build the Xin’anjiang Hydroelectric Power Station. The resulting reservoir flooded valleys, submerging towns and creating the iconic archipelago landscape.
Why is Qiandaohu important in Chinese culture?
Qiandaohu embodies themes of sacrifice, renewal, and harmony with nature. Its islands and waters symbolize peace, balance, and the beauty of transformation—often appearing in art, poetry, and local legends.
Can you visit the sunken city of Shicheng?
Yes, but only by diving. The city of Shicheng, submerged beneath the lake, is a popular destination for advanced divers seeking to explore its remarkably preserved structures and artifacts.
What activities can you enjoy at Qiandaohu?
Popular activities include island-hopping boat tours, hiking, cycling, fishing, kayaking, swimming, wildlife observation, and participating in local festivals or dragon boat races.
Is Qiandaohu water really that clean?
Yes. Qiandaohu is famous for its pure water, considered among the cleanest in China. It supplies bottled water and drinking water to cities beyond the immediate region.
What kind of wildlife lives in Qiandaohu?
The lake and its islands are home to a rich variety of birds, fish, and plants. The forests provide habitat for deer, wild boar, and other animals, making it an ecological haven.
When is the best time to visit Qiandaohu?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant weather, lush scenery, and comfortable temperatures. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are chilly but peaceful.
How do you get to Qiandaohu?
The lake is accessible by high-speed train, bus, or car from Hangzhou (about 2 hours), and from Shanghai or Huangshan within a few hours. There are also organized tours that make travel simple.
Are there any famous local dishes from Qiandaohu?
Yes, the lake is famed for its freshwater fish, especially Qiandaohu fish head soup (千岛湖鱼头汤). Local restaurants also serve dishes featuring vegetables, tea, and fruits grown in the surrounding area.
