Although Hangzhou is ranked among the top scenic spots of east China, Chun'an County, less than three hours away by bus, is also famous for its Thousand Island (Qiandao) Lake.

Created by the construction of the Xin'an River Reservoir in 1959, the lake is now ranked as a state-level scenic spot along with Hangzhou's West Lake, also in the east, and Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) in the west.

A large number of locals in Chun'an were forced to relocate to other parts of the country to make way for the reservoir as their land was flooded but their sacrifice was not in vain.

Crystal-clear water

The surface area of the lake now covers 570 square kilometers and its waters are crystal clear. The countryside is interwoven with streams and the area has beautiful scenery all around the lake. The region is more than 80 per cent forested and is also known as the "Green Thousand Island Lake."

The Thousand Island Lake National Forest Park covers an area of 448 square kilometers and the dense forest has purified the air of the surrounding areas. As "national first-class water," the lake is so pure that it can be drunk from directly.

Surrounded by a ring of continuous green hills, the Thousand Island Lake is mostly visited during the summer time each year for the pleasant weather.

Connected with the Qiantang-Fuchun river region, the Thousand Island Lake has forged its own particular attraction for visitors.

After passing through the misty woodland alongside the shores of the lake, the paths lead to the massive body of emerald water. The cool water makes travelers forget the oppressive heat of the cities.

The whole lake area is divided into five parts, the northeast, the southeast, the northwest, the southwest and the central area. After large-scale reconstruction in recent years, the lake has six sections containing 14 scenic spots, including the Screen Peak, the Plum Peak, the Dragon Hill, the Animal-Series and the Stone Forest.

The landforms of the islands include limestone and granite. Various plant species, such as mulberries and bamboo, are scattered among the islands. The lake is also famous for its fruit and nuts, harvested in the four seasons - persimmon, sweet-spun golden jujubes, mountain walnuts and dried wild brake.

Monkey watching

Floating about in a boat after the morning mist has lifted is one of the most enjoyable experience on Thousand Island Lake. Visitors who are fond of watching wild animal will have plenty to see. Around 90 species of birds inhabit the islands and their birdsong marks the beginning of each day on Thousand Island Lake. Wild animals living in the surrounding mountains come down to the lake to drink.

Monkeys are the most active in the lake area and can be seen crouching in the trees eating fruit. For photography enthusiasts, the islands are full of pictorial opportunities and cameras have to be always at the ready.

Fishing is another popular activity as the lake is home to 87 varieties of freshwater fish. The annual fish catch is more than 4,000 tons. The lake is largely dominated by mandarin fish, an aggressive breed that feeds on smaller fish and other aquatic life. Dishes of mandarin fish are usually served in pepper-pot soups and they are at their best in summer when the fish is in peak condition. Lots of travelers and locals like to fish for turtles in the lake as well since these creatures are regarded as highly nutritious by the Chinese.

(China Daily June 22, 2004)