Hanshan Lake

Hanshan Lake

Hanshan Lake, named after the poet Hanshan who once wandered here, lies 32 kilometers east of Tiantai County. Covering an area of 8.9 square kilometers, the lake spans 9,600 mu—six times the size of West Lake. With 37 bays and 9 islands, the picturesque scenery makes it a rare large-scale water activity area within the Tiantai Mountain Scenic Zone.

The lake’s waters ripple with a vibrant blue, and surrounding mountains stand dark and lush. This area provides habitat for various migratory birds under international protection as well as rare national first-class animals. With green hills and clear waters in all seasons, you can boat across the lake, surrounded by mountains and sparkling water—offering limitless scenic beauty.

Major structures in the lake area include a river-blocking dam, water diversion and power generation tunnels, and a power station. The double-curvature arch dam stands 74.3 meters high and 266 meters long, resembling a giant dragon lying between two mountains, holding back vast stretches of blue water upstream. When the water is released, eight silver streams cascade down like lightning and thunder, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle.

The surrounding mountains undulate, dotted with bamboo groves and dense forests, alive with birdsong and floral scents. On the northern shore, Lufeng Peak got its name from the reeds planted there by the renowned Taoist Ge Xuan of the late Han Dynasty. On the southern bank, atop Shimen Ridge, stands a lightning-struck stone pillar known as “Heaven-Struck Rock,” whose shape bears some resemblance to the Goddess Peak of Wushan.