——“Trees grow in water, boats glide through forests; emerald green in summer, fiery red in winter.”
Qingshan Lake is located just 5 kilometers east of downtown Lin’an District, Hangzhou. Built in 1964 as a large man-made reservoir, it spans 10 square kilometers of serene water surrounded by rolling hills.Its true magic lies in the “Water Forest”—a stunning wetland of over 10,000 dawn redwoods (Metasequoia) and bald cypresses (Taxodium) rooted directly in the lake. In spring and summer, the trees shimmer in vibrant jade green; by late autumn and winter, they blaze into golden amber and deep crimson, creating what many call “the most beautiful water forest in Eastern China.”More than just a scenic spot, Qingshan Lake is a National Forest Park and Hangzhou locals’ beloved “backyard escape”—perfect for cycling, kayaking, birdwatching, camping, or even night-time light shows. Just a 40-minute drive from central Hangzhou, it offers a peaceful retreat without venturing far.
📍Essential Information
Location: Qingshanhu Subdistrict, Lin’an District, Hangzhou (approx. 30 km from downtown Hangzhou)
How to Get There:
By car: Navigate to “Qingshan Lake Water Forest” or “Liuzhuang Trailhead Parking”; ~40 minutes from city center;
Public transport: Take Metro Line 16 to “Qingshanhu Station,” then transfer to bus Lin’an K820 to “Yannan Intersection” or “Shenglian Village,” followed by a 10-minute walk;
Cycling/Hiking: A dedicated lakeside greenway connects directly from Lin’an urban area.
Opening Hours:
The lake and trails are open 24/7;
Boat & kayak rentals: Typically 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (shorter hours in winter—confirm ahead);
Hangzhou Cultural Tourism Card holders may enjoy free entry or discounts (check official terms).
🌟Top Experiences & Highlights
1.The Water Forest – A Living Painting Across Seasons
Spring & Summer: Lush green canopies reflect in tea-colored water, dotted with duckweed and white egrets;
Late Autumn to Early Winter (mid-Dec to early Jan): Trees transform into a fiery tapestry of gold and crimson, mirrored perfectly in the still lake—creating a surreal “forest above and below water” effect.
Best way to experience: Glide through the trees by kayak or sightseeing boat for an immersive, up-close encounter.
2.Lakeside Greenway – A Cyclist’s Dream
A smooth, flat 42-km loop trail circles the entire lake, linking scenic stops and rest areas;
Expansive free public lawns (e.g., near Qinshan Pier) ideal for:
Picnics, kite-flying, tent camping (overnight allowed in designated zones);
Sunset viewing and stargazing (minimal light pollution = clear night skies).
4.Wildlife Sanctuary – A Birdwatcher’s Haven
Home to over 240 species of wildlife, including:
Elliot’s pheasant (National Class I protected), black storks, egrets, and wild ducks;
Bring binoculars and visit at dawn/dusk for best sightings.
5.Night Tour – A Magical Light Experience
During summer and holidays, the Water Forest is illuminated with artistic LED lighting, mist effects, and ambient music—turning the forest into an enchanted dreamscape.
Explore by evening boat cruise or illuminated boardwalks.
💡Practical Tips
✅ Best time to visit:
Mid-December to early January for peak red foliage (expect crowds);
April–May or September–October for pleasant weather and fewer visitors.
👟 What to wear:
Non-slip shoes (piers can be wet);
Warm layers in winter (windy on open water);
Sun hat + mosquito repellent in summer.
📸 Top photo spots:
Boardwalk at Water Forest entrance;
Kayaking into the heart of the forest;
Silhouettes against red trees on the lakeside lawn at sunset.
🚫 Please note:
Do not feed wildlife or litter—help preserve this fragile ecosystem;
Parking fills quickly on weekends—arrive early;
Kayaking requires moderate physical effort; families with young kids may prefer electric boats.
🗺️Recommended One-Day Itinerary
Morning: Arrive by car/public transport → Park at Liuzhuang → Rent bikes for lakeside ride (1 hour)
Lunch: Picnic on the lawn or try local cuisine nearby (don’t miss Qingshan Lake fish head soup!)
Afternoon: Boat tour into Water Forest → Kayak exploration → Hike up to Pengzu Ruins for panoramic views
Evening: Watch sunset over the lake → If available, enjoy the illuminated night forest
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