An Enjoyable Evening Boat Cruise on Qiandao Lake

Qiandaohu -  One of the highlights of our stay at Qiandao Lake was joining an evening boat cruise around the beautiful Thousand Island Lake. The cruise began at 6.30pm sharp and ended back at the same pier at 8pm, offering a relaxing combination of sightseeing, dinner, entertainment, and a stunning island light show.

As sunset approached, we made our way to the pier where the large three-level Chinese-style cruise boat was waiting. The boat itself looked elegant and traditional, brightly lit against the evening sky and calm lake waters. There was a sense of excitement among the passengers as everyone slowly boarded and settled into their assigned sections.

Our ticket package allowed us access to the first level of the boat, which included a buffet dinner and drinks. While the upper levels appeared to offer more premium seating and viewing areas, we were perfectly happy with our arrangement as the atmosphere downstairs was already lively and comfortable.

What impressed me immediately was the punctuality of the operation. At exactly 6.30pm, the boat departed from the pier smoothly and quietly, gliding out into the calm waters of the lake. As soon as we left the dock, the boat crew immediately began preparing dinner for the guests.

The dining area was clean and spacious, and before long the buffet dishes were carefully laid out and ready to be served. Once everything was prepared, the staff invited passengers to form a queue for dinner.

Most people queued patiently, but as with many buffet settings, there were a few unruly diners who attempted to cut the line. On more than one occasion, I had to firmly tell two individuals not to jump the queue. Honestly, there were not even that many diners onboard, so there was really no need for such rushing behaviour. Thankfully, the situation never escalated and most guests remained polite and orderly.

Once we finally collected our food, the buffet turned out to be surprisingly decent. There was a good variety of dishes available including vegetables, fish soup, chicken, bao, fruits, and desserts. The food was simple but satisfying, especially while enjoying the cool evening breeze from the lake outside.

The fish soup was particularly enjoyable and reminded us again of Qiandao Lake’s reputation for fresh freshwater fish. Combined with the relaxing boat atmosphere, the meal felt comforting and enjoyable rather than overly luxurious or formal.

As dinner continued, entertainment began onboard. First, a violinist performed several pieces while passengers relaxed and enjoyed the scenic cruise. The music added a peaceful and elegant atmosphere to the evening as the boat moved slowly across the darkening lake waters.

Later, a singer took over the entertainment segment and performed a selection of lively songs. To encourage audience participation, the boat operators distributed handheld clappers to the passengers. Soon many of us were clapping along to the rhythm of the music, creating a cheerful and festive atmosphere onboard.

The entertainment eventually paused as the boat approached one of the main attractions of the cruise — Moonlight Island.

From a distance, the island already looked impressive with colourful lights illuminating the buildings, pathways, and surrounding scenery. As we got closer, the entire island seemed to glow beautifully against the darkness of the lake.

After disembarking, we spent around thirty minutes exploring the island. The light displays were vibrant and visually stunning, combining traditional Chinese design elements with modern lighting technology. Some areas also featured interactive installations where visitors could participate in small activities and photo opportunities.

Walking around the illuminated island at night created a magical atmosphere. The reflections of the colourful lights dancing across the lake water made the scenery even more memorable.

After everyone had finished exploring, passengers slowly returned to the boat and we began the final leg of the journey back to the pier. The return ride was calm and relaxing, with many passengers quietly enjoying the night scenery or chatting softly among themselves.

Right on schedule, the boat arrived back at the pier at 8pm.

Although the cruise lasted only about one and a half hours, it felt like a complete evening experience filled with good food, entertainment, scenic beauty, and memorable moments. From the buffet dinner and onboard performances to the stunning Moonlight Island light show, the entire journey was both relaxing and enjoyable.

For anyone visiting Qiandao Lake, this evening cruise is definitely worth experiencing. It offers not only beautiful night views of the lake but also a fun and uniquely Chinese cultural atmosphere that makes the evening truly memorable.

A Scenic Journey to Qiandao Lake – China’s Beautiful Thousand Island Lake

 Qiandaohu - During our trip in Zhejiang Province, one of the destinations I was most looking forward to visiting was Qiandao Lake, also famously known as Thousand Island Lake. Located in Chun’an County, this stunning man-made freshwater reservoir is renowned throughout China for its crystal-clear waters, scenic islands, fresh seafood, and peaceful natural beauty.

Qiandao Lake was formed in 1959 after the construction of the Xin’an River Hydropower Station. Today, the reservoir contains an astonishing 1,078 lush green islands scattered across the lake, creating one of the most picturesque landscapes in China. Surrounded by rolling hills and forests, the lake has become a popular destination for scenic cruises, cycling, photography, and relaxing getaways away from busy city life.

Before even arriving at Qiandao Lake, we encountered something interesting while arranging transportation. Initially, I checked the ride fare using Didi, China’s popular ride-hailing app, and the quoted price for a direct journey from our Hangzhou hotel to our hotel at Qiandao Lake was nearly RMB500.

Wanting to explore cheaper alternatives, we approached the front desk staff at our hotel for assistance. The front desk was extremely helpful and contacted a local tour desk on our behalf. Surprisingly, the tour desk quoted us an even higher price of around RMB750 for the same journey.

Fortunately, the receptionist managed to help us find a private driver who agreed to take us directly from hotel to hotel for only RMB200. We immediately accepted the deal as it was far cheaper and much more convenient than the other options.

Interestingly, we also realised that there often seems to be a “foreign price” and a “local price” in certain parts of China, especially for transportation and tourism-related services. Prices can vary significantly depending on who is asking and how bookings are arranged. Thankfully, having helpful local staff made a huge difference for us.

Another option would have been taking the High-Speed Rail (HSR), but after calculating the additional taxi rides required to and from the railway stations, the total cost would have ended up around RMB200 anyway. In the end, the direct car transfer was clearly the most comfortable and convenient solution.

The journey itself was pleasant and smooth. About one hour into the drive, we stopped at a rest stop that completely surprised us. Unlike ordinary highway rest areas, this one looked modern and luxurious, almost like a shopping mall.

The most impressive feature was a huge aquarium built around the central elevator structure. Colourful fish swam around the transparent tank surrounding the lift, creating a unique and eye-catching design. Inside the building were shops, restaurants, cafes, and resting areas that made the stop feel more like a mini lifestyle mall than a roadside service station.

After continuing our drive through scenic mountain roads and countryside landscapes, we finally arrived at Qiandao Lake and checked into our hotel. The air immediately felt fresher and cleaner compared to the city, and the calm atmosphere around the lake was incredibly relaxing.

Naturally, one of the first things we wanted to do after checking in was try the local cuisine. We walked to a nearby restaurant for lunch, determined to sample the lake’s most famous specialty — the legendary Qiandao Lake Fish Head Soup.

This dish is considered the defining culinary treasure of Qiandao Lake. The soup is made using the lake’s famous “big head carp,” a freshwater fish known for its tender meat and rich flavour due to the exceptionally clean water conditions of the lake.

When the dish arrived, the serving was enormous. The fish head itself was massive, simmered in a spicy  and oily broth together with tons of chilli on top. The fish tasted incredibly fresh and tasty but spicy. 

We also had stir fried eggs with green peppers.  

Another stir fried vegetable dish with toufu. Alongside the meal, we also tried the local Qiandao Lake Beer. The beer paired wonderfully with the fish dishes and added to the authentic local dining experience.  Cheerday is the Qiandaohu beer brand company. 

As we enjoyed lunch overlooking the peaceful surroundings, I realised that the journey to Qiandao Lake had already become memorable even before exploring the islands themselves. 

A Vibrant Night Walk Along Hangzhou’s Beautiful West Lake

 Hangzhou - One of the most enjoyable moments during our stay in Hangzhou was taking a relaxing night walk around West Lake. While the lake was already breathtaking during the day, the atmosphere at night transformed into something completely different — lively, colourful, and full of energy.

Because it was the weekend, the entire area around West Lake was bustling with activity. Crowds of locals and tourists filled the pathways surrounding the lake, creating a festive yet relaxed atmosphere. Families, couples, photographers, joggers, and groups of friends all gathered around the scenic waterfront to enjoy the cool evening air and beautiful surroundings.

The lake itself looked magical at night. Soft lights from nearby buildings, bridges, and shops reflected gently across the calm waters. The famous willow trees that lined the lake swayed quietly in the evening breeze, adding to the peaceful charm of the scenery.

As we walked along the pathways, we noticed that many stores and stalls remained open late into the evening. The streets beside the lake were lined with vendors selling fruits, snacks, drinks, souvenirs, and local delicacies. The smell of freshly cooked food drifted through the air, tempting visitors at every corner.

What I enjoyed most was how lively yet comfortable the atmosphere felt. Unlike some crowded tourist areas that can feel stressful, West Lake at night still maintained a pleasant and welcoming environment. People seemed relaxed and happy simply enjoying the evening with family and friends.

There were also several buskers performing along the streets and near the waterfront. Some played traditional Chinese instruments while others sang modern songs that attracted small crowds around them. Their performances added warmth and entertainment to the evening walk. Occasionally, applause and laughter could be heard as visitors stopped to listen and record videos.

As we continued exploring the night market atmosphere, one particular fruit stall caught our attention. Displayed among the usual fruits was something unusual that looked almost alien-like — bright orange with small horn-like spikes covering its surface. Curious, we stopped to take a closer look.

Kiwano

The vendor explained that it was a Kiwano, also known as the African horned melon or jelly melon. Originally native to Sub-Saharan Africa, the fruit had become increasingly popular in some Asian markets because of its unique appearance and refreshing taste.

We decided to buy one and try it for ourselves.

When the fruit was cut open, the inside revealed a vibrant green, jelly-like flesh filled with edible seeds. Its appearance was unlike any fruit I had seen before. The texture was soft and slightly slippery, almost like a cross between jelly and cucumber pulp.

The taste was surprisingly refreshing. It had a light sweetness combined with flavours that reminded me of cucumber, kiwi, and banana all mixed together. The cool, juicy texture made it especially enjoyable during the warm evening walk around the lake.

Trying the Kiwano became one of those small but memorable travel moments that unexpectedly stand out. Sometimes travelling is not only about famous landmarks or attractions, but also about discovering new flavours, local experiences, and simple interactions along the way.

As we continued walking around West Lake holding our unusual fruit snack, we observed the vibrant nightlife unfolding around us. Children laughed while playing near the waterfront, couples posed for photographs beside illuminated bridges, and elderly residents gathered together chatting and exercising near the open spaces.

The combination of natural beauty and lively weekend energy made the entire experience unforgettable. West Lake at night felt very different from the calm and historical atmosphere of the daytime scenery. It became a social gathering place full of life, music, food, and culture.

The beautiful lake views, bustling streets, street performers, local food stalls, and even the strange but delicious Kiwano fruit all came together to create a perfect night out.

Walking along Hangzhou Grand Canal

Hangzhou - One of the most relaxing and enjoyable experiences during our time in Hangzhou was simply walking along the historic Grand Canal. While many visitors focus on famous attractions like West Lake, the Grand Canal offered a different kind of beauty with a quieter, more atmospheric, and deeply connected to the daily rhythm of local life.

The canal itself was absolutely beautiful. Long willow trees lined both sides of the waterway, their branches drooping gracefully toward the canal surface. As the breeze blew gently, the willow leaves swayed softly above the water, creating reflections that made the scenery feel almost like a traditional Chinese painting. Walking beneath these trees was peaceful and calming, especially compared to the busy city streets nearby.

As we continued our walk, we came across several impressive sculptures depicting scenes from ancient China. Many of these sculptures showed merchants, labourers, and traders transporting goods along the canal during earlier dynasties. They served as reminders of how important the Grand Canal once was to China’s economy and development.

For centuries, the canal acted as a major transport route linking northern and southern China. Goods such as silk, rice, tea, ceramics, and spices were moved through these waterways, helping cities like Hangzhou flourish into prosperous trading centres. Seeing the sculptures helped bring that rich history to life.

Further along the canal, we noticed an elderly man quietly fishing by the riverside. He sat patiently with his fishing rod beside the calm waters, completely unbothered by the passing crowds. The scene felt timeless and peaceful, almost like something from another era. Watching him fish beneath the willow trees added to the tranquil charm of the canal.

The pathways along the canal were lively but not overcrowded. There were many small stalls, cafes, and local vendors set up beside the river, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Some people were relaxing on benches while others enjoyed leisurely walks or took photographs beside the water.

At one point during our walk, we stopped by a fruit drink stall. The fruit drinks looked refreshing, especially after spending time walking under the afternoon sun. We ordered a cold fruit drink and walked enjoying the beautiful canal scenery while viewing the many shops along the canal.

Beside the fruit drink stall was a small steamed meat bun stall that immediately caught my attention. The freshly steamed buns smelled delicious, and I could not resist buying one. The bun was warm, soft, and flavourful, such simple local street food but incredibly satisfying. Sometimes the best travel experiences come from these small food discoveries rather than expensive restaurants.

One particularly interesting stop during our walk was the famous Lang Lang Music World music store. Named after the internationally renowned Chinese pianist Lang Lang, the store stood out prominently along the canal area. Music drifted softly from inside, adding another layer of culture and elegance to the surroundings.

Before ending our walk, we also stopped at Moto patisserie to try one of their specialised bread pastries. The pastry was beautifully made, fresh, and slightly different from the breads we usually eat back home. Sitting there enjoying pastry and slowly appreciate the atmosphere around us.

What made the Grand Canal so special was not only its history but also how alive and vibrant it still feels today. 

Unlike some historical attractions that feel frozen in time, the canal continues to be part of everyday life in Hangzhou. Locals exercise, fish, eat, socialise, and relax beside the water while visitors quietly admire the scenery.

A Journey Along the Historic Hangzhou Canals

 Hangzhou - One of the most fascinating experiences during our trip to Hangzhou was exploring the city’s historic canal system, part of the world-famous Grand Canal. While many visitors to Hangzhou focus mainly on the beauty of West Lake, the canals reveal another side of the city; one deeply connected to China’s long history of trade, transport, culture, and daily life.

The Grand Canal is one of the greatest engineering achievements in Chinese history. Stretching thousands of kilometres, it is a vast system of interconnected canals linking major rivers and lakes across North and East China. For centuries during medieval and premodern China, the canal served as a vital transport network connecting the prosperous south with the political centres in the north. Goods such as rice, silk, tea, ceramics, and grain were transported through these waterways, helping to sustain entire dynasties and economies.

Today, parts of the canal remain active while other sections have become scenic cultural areas that preserve the charm and heritage of old China. Walking along these waterways allows visitors to experience a quieter and more authentic side of Hangzhou compared to the modern skyscrapers and shopping districts.

Changee yacht

Interior of Changee yacht

Our canal journey began at one of the ferry points where locals and tourists gathered to board what many people casually refer to as the “Hangzhou water taxi.” Unlike expensive tourist cruises, this ferry service is part of the city’s everyday public transport system and offers an affordable and enjoyable way to experience the canals.

Hangzhou canal ferry

What impressed me immediately was the orderly queue formed by passengers waiting to board the ferry. Everyone waited patiently and calmly despite the steady flow of people arriving at the dock. The atmosphere was organised and efficient, reflecting the discipline often seen in Chinese public transport systems.

The ferry fee itself was remarkably affordable — only RMB3 per person. Considering the scenic experience and convenience, it felt like incredible value. In many countries, such a boat ride through a historic canal district would likely cost several times more.

As we boarded the ferry, I was excited to finally experience the canals from the water itself rather than simply walking beside them. The ferry was clean, practical, and used by both commuters and visitors. Some passengers appeared to be regular locals heading home or travelling between districts, while others, like us, were clearly there to enjoy the sightseeing experience.

As the boat slowly moved along the canal, the scenery around us immediately began to change. Modern city roads and buildings gradually gave way to older-style architecture, stone bridges, traditional riverside houses, and quiet walkways lined with willow trees. The canals offered a unique perspective of Hangzhou that felt slower, calmer, and more reflective.

One of the most beautiful aspects of the journey was observing how old and new China coexist side by side. In some areas, modern apartment buildings rose behind historic riverside structures that appeared untouched by time. Elderly residents sat outside chatting with neighbours while younger people walked along the pathways carrying smartphones and takeaway drinks. It was a fascinating blend of history and modern life existing together naturally.

The water itself was calm and peaceful, reflecting the surrounding buildings and bridges like a mirror. Occasionally, other ferries and boats passed by, creating gentle ripples across the canal. The sound of water moving against the sides of the boat added to the relaxing atmosphere.

As the ferry continued moving through the canal system, I found myself imagining what these waterways must have looked like centuries ago during the height of imperial China. Back then, countless merchant boats carrying grain, silk, spices, and ceramics would have travelled along these same routes. Officials, traders, scholars, and travellers would have relied on the canal system to move across vast distances within China.

The Grand Canal played an essential role in connecting different regions of the country economically and culturally. Without it, many cities including Hangzhou may never have developed into the prosperous centres they became. It is truly remarkable that such an ancient infrastructure project continues to influence modern China today.

The experience also reminded me how important waterways once were before the development of modern highways and rail systems. For centuries, rivers and canals were the lifelines of civilisations, supporting trade, communication, agriculture, and urban development.

The Hangzhou canals are not only historically important but also deeply atmospheric and beautiful. They offer visitors a chance to slow down and appreciate the rhythms of local life while reflecting on China’s extraordinary historical achievements.

A Warm Lunch, Surprising Conversations, and Hidden Discoveries in Hangzhou

 Hanzhou - One of the things I enjoy most while travelling is not necessarily visiting famous tourist attractions, but discovering the small everyday moments that make a trip memorable. After Hu Xueyan house tour, we stumbled upon a small family-run restaurant that served one of the most satisfying and heartwarming meals of our journey.

The restaurant itself was modest and simple, tucked quietly along one of the streets away from the busy tourist crowds. It was not a fancy establishment with luxurious decorations or elaborate menus. Instead, it had the comforting atmosphere of a neighbourhood eatery where locals come for affordable, home-style cooking. The restaurant was operated by a husband-and-wife team, and from the moment we stepped inside, we could immediately feel the warmth and friendliness of the place.

I decided to order dumplings, while Edmund chose his usual noodles. The dumplings arrived steaming hot, freshly made, and packed with flavour. The skin was soft yet slightly chewy, while the filling inside was juicy and delicious. I had ordered twelve dumplings, which already felt like a generous portion, but the owner added two dumplings for me at no extra charge.

That simple gesture made the meal even more enjoyable. It was not about the value of the extra dumplings, but the kindness and hospitality behind it. In many large cities today, dining can sometimes feel rushed and impersonal, but this small restaurant reminded me of the charm of old-fashioned hospitality.

The husband, who appeared to be the more outgoing half of the couple, was especially chatty and friendly. Like many curious locals who encounter foreign visitors, he began asking us where we were from. Edmund, however, has a habit of turning the question into a guessing game. Instead of answering directly, he smiled and said, “Guess.”

Without hesitation, the owner immediately replied, “Singapore.” We were genuinely surprised that he guessed correctly so quickly. Perhaps it was luck, or perhaps after years of meeting travellers, he had developed a talent for identifying nationalities from accents, appearance, or behaviour.

As if to prove his skills were real, another customer entered the restaurant shortly after. Before she could say much, the owner confidently guessed that she was from Hong Kong and once again, he was absolutely correct. At that moment, we began wondering whether he possessed some hidden talent for reading people.

But the biggest surprise came next.

After chatting with Edmund for a while, the owner suddenly asked whether he used to be a teacher.  We were stunned.

Edmund had never mentioned his profession, nor had there been any obvious clues during the conversation. Yet somehow, this friendly restaurant owner had correctly guessed that Edmund was formerly a teacher. We laughed in amazement while the owner smiled proudly at another successful guess. Perhaps it was Edmund’s calm speaking style, patient mannerisms, or simply intuition developed through years of interacting with customers.

Moments like these are what make travelling special. Sometimes the most memorable experiences are not grand attractions or expensive activities, but simple human interactions that leave a lasting impression.

After finishing our satisfying lunch, we continued exploring the surrounding streets of Hangzhou. The area had a relaxed atmosphere with small shops, local businesses, and occasional historical buildings mixed among the modern city landscape.

As we walked along, we unexpectedly came across a small Hangzhou museum. To our surprise, admission was completely free, so we decided to step inside and take a look.

Although not very large, the museum was thoughtfully curated and provided interesting insights into Hangzhou’s history and development. One section of the museum showcased the contributions and impact of various Chinese presidents and national leaders on the city of Hangzhou over the years. 

Through photographs, displays, and historical information, visitors could see how the city evolved economically, culturally, and politically during different periods of modern Chinese history.

Outside the museum was a beautifully landscaped garden featuring sculptures and peaceful walking paths. The garden created a calm atmosphere that contrasted nicely with the busy roads outside. It felt like one of those hidden gems that many tourists might easily overlook.

While exploring the area around the museum, we noticed a majestic pagoda standing prominently across a major road. Its elegant structure immediately caught our attention against the city skyline. Curious to see it up close, we carefully crossed the busy street and made our way toward it.

The pagoda looked magnificent from nearby, showcasing traditional Chinese architectural beauty with its layered roofs and intricate design details. The contrast between the ancient-style pagoda and the surrounding modern urban environment made the scene even more striking.

Entrance to the Pagoda was free and was an exhibition organised by Eastman Kodak. The exhibition added another interesting dimension to our afternoon walk, blending modern visual displays and creativity alongside the historical and cultural surroundings.  We climb up the stairs and it was a magnificant view of downtown Hangzhou.

The delicious dumplings, the friendly and incredibly perceptive restaurant owner, the quiet museum, the beautiful garden, and the majestic pagoda all combined to create memories that felt authentic and deeply human.