East Lake Scenic Area
Shaoxing East Lake, located in Yuecheng District, Shaoxing City, Zhejiang Province, is a national AAAA-level scenic area renowned for its unique blend of natural beauty and human craftsmanship. Spanning 50 hectares, it is celebrated as the "No. 1 Water Stone Bonsai in the World" for its dramatic cliffs, deep caves, and stone bridges. The lake, carved from ancient quarries, features Taoist-inspired landscapes and historic pavilions, making it a cultural gem alongside Hangzhou West Lake and Jiaxing South Lake.
Historical Overview
The lake’s history dates to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE), when masons began quarrying stone, shaping the cliffs and caves over centuries. In the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912), scholar Taojunxuan redesigned the area, blending natural and artificial elements to evoke a "mountain-water paradise." Emperor Qinshihuang is said to have rested here during his southern tour. Recent upgrades (2020s) have enhanced infrastructure, including digital exhibits and eco-friendly boat tours.
Structural Layout
The scenic area is divided into three zones:
- Cave & Boat Zone: Central lake with Taogong Cave, Xiantao Cave, and Wupeng boat routes.
- Pavilion & Garden Zone: Historic pavilions (Tingqiu, Yinliu) and tea houses.
- Cultural & Activity Zone: Social performances (e.g., Shaoxing opera) and exhibitions.
Key structures include the Hanbiting Wharf (boat departure point) and Jishou Building (historic photo gallery).
Major Attractions
- Taogong Cave: A 50-meter-deep cave with narrow entrance, resembling a "natural well."
- Xiantao Cave: Stone door creating a peach-shaped reflection when viewed by boat.
- Wupeng Boat Tour: 20-minute ride through caves (¥40/adult, ¥20/child).
- Tingqiu Pavilion: Historic pavilion offering lake views.
- Jishou Building: Gallery showcasing photos of Mao Zedong and other leaders.
- Yangfan Fang: Venue for daily Shaoxing opera performances (9:30–10:30 AM, 2:00–3:00 PM).
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (2 hours):
Entrance → Hanbiting Wharf (boat tour) → Taogong Cave → Xiantao Cave → Jishou Building → Exit
Highlights: Cave exploration and lake vistas. - Extended Route (3–4 hours):
Add Tingqiu Pavilion, Yinliu Pavilion, and opera performance. - Comprehensive Route (Full Day):
Include tea house visit, cultural exhibitions, and mountain trails.
Ticket Purchase
- Main Tickets:
- Adults: ¥50 (peak), ¥30 (off-peak).
- Students/Seniors: ¥25 (peak), ¥20 (off-peak).
- Free: Children under 1.2m, locals (non-holidays), military.
- Purchase: Book online via Ctrip or the park’s WeChat account.
Transportation
- By Bus: Routes 1, 37, or 57 to "East Lake Scenic Area Station."
- By Taxi: 20 mins from Shaoxing North HSR Station (¥25).
- Self-Driving: Direct to "Shaoxing East Lake Scenic Area" parking lot.
Best Time & Tips
- Ideal Seasons: March–November (spring/autumn for mild weather).
- Essentials:
- Wear sturdy shoes for cave paths.
- Bring a camera for peach cave reflections.
- Arrive early (8:30 AM) to avoid crowds.
- Prohibited Items: Pets, large bags, drones.
- Cultural Note: Remove hats in pavilions; respect opera performances.
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Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s):
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May 08,2024
Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories.
Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s):
Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
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June 02,2025
Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic!
Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale.
For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return.
A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s):
Zhangjiajie
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2025
