Laoshan Island
姥山岛
The only island in the middle of Chaohu Lake, with fishing villages and tea gardens; climb the Ming-era Wenfeng Pagoda for views over the lake, and reach the island by boat in about 30 minutes from Zhongmiao.
Laoshan Island lies in the center of Chaohu Lake and is the only island in the lake. Shaped like a snail shell, it covers about 1 square kilometer and has fishing villages, tea gardens and bamboo groves, with a trail around the island of about 3 km. At the top stands the Wenfeng Pagoda, first built during the Chongzhen era of the Ming dynasty. The seven-story octagonal tower offers views over the lake and the Zhongmiao temple on the north shore. To visit, take a boat from the pier near Zhongmiao for about 30 minutes to reach the island, then spend 2 to 3 hours walking the loop and climbing the pagoda. Fishermen's meals with Chaohu fish and shrimp are available on the island. Ticket and boat fees are combined and follow the scenic area's published prices. Boats may be suspended in strong winds or fog, so check before setting out. From downtown Hefei to the pier is about 40 km, and the island is often combined with Zhongmiao as a half-day or full-day trip.
Opening hours
Ferry approx. 08:30–17:00 (weather permitting)
Nearby sights
- Zhongmiao Temple, Chao Lake
- Changlinhe Ancient Town
- Former Residence of Zhang Zhizhong
- Binhu Wetland National Forest Park
- Anhui Innovation Museum
- Yangtze River Crossing Campaign Memorial Museum
- Anhui Celebrities Museum
- Sunac Land Hefei