Dongqian Lake
东钱湖
Zhejiang's largest natural freshwater lake, with 'the scenery of West Lake and the spirit of Lake Tai.' Cycling around the lake, the Southern Song stone carving park, Xiaoputuo and lakeside resorts make it a weekend retreat for Ningbo residents.
Dongqian Lake lies about 15 kilometers southeast of downtown Ningbo. Its surface covers about 20 square kilometers, three times the size of Hangzhou's West Lake. It was excavated as an irrigation lake in the Western Jin dynasty. In the Southern Song dynasty, the lakeshores became burial grounds for scholar-officials, including the Shi family, which is why many Southern Song stone carvings survive here. There are four main ways to enjoy the lake. First, cycle around it. The shoreline road is about 40 kilometers, and the most beautiful section runs along the south bank from Xiaoputuo to Taogong Island. Shared bikes and rental stations are available by the lake. Second, visit the sights. Xiaoputuo (Xiayu Temple, a Guanyin sanctuary on an islet in the lake; admission about 30 yuan). The Southern Song Stone Carving Park features stone figures along the Shi family tomb road and carvings of Southern Song civil and military officials, the largest group of Southern Song tomb carvings in China. Taogong Island is associated with the legend of Fan Li. Hanling Old Street is a market in a converted lakeside village with cafés and creative shops. Third, enjoy water activities: lake cruises, sailing and kayaking, with campsites open in summer. Fourth, stay at a resort. Lakeside hotels such as the Park Hyatt and Huamao, and lakeside guesthouses, are good for a weekend night and watching the sunrise. A recommended route is to start the morning at Hanling Old Street, cycle along the south shore to Xiaoputuo, visit the Southern Song Stone Carving Park, and finish the afternoon on Taogong Island to watch the sunset. Entry to the lake area is free, though individual sights charge fees. Getting there: take Metro Line 4 to Dongqian Lake Station, where lake buses and shared bikes are available at the exit. Driving from downtown takes about 30 minutes. Notes: protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated when cycling around the lake. Parking is hard to find during holidays. Hanling Old Street is crowded on weekends, but quieter on weekdays.
Opening hours
Open all day (sights 08:00–17:00)
Nearby sights
- Southern Song Stone Carvings Park
- Hanling Old Street
- Ningbo Youngor Zoo
- King Ashoka Temple
- Tiantong Temple
- Romon U-Park
- Ningbo Museum
- Nantang Old Street