The Incredible Story of Qiandao (Thousand Island) Lake | China

Thousand Island Lake, or Qiandao Lake, is a man-made reservoir located in Zhejiang Province, not far from the city of Hangzhou. This scenic area was created in 1959 after the construction of the Xin’an River Dam for hydroelectric power production. As the valley filled with water, more than a thousand forested islands appeared across the lake, giving it the name “Thousand Island Lake.”

But beneath the tranquil waters lies a forgotten world — the ancient city of Shi Cheng, known as the “Lion City,” along with several other towns and villages, now completely submerged. These cities were once thriving communities with a rich cultural and architectural heritage, some dating back over a thousand years. Today, they remain eerily preserved under the water, attracting divers and historians alike.
The lake has since transformed into one of China’s most beautiful and unique destinations. Its crystal-clear waters, rolling green hills, and the hundreds of islands each with their own character and name make it a place of endless exploration. From peaceful boat rides to underwater archaeology and museum visits that tell the story of the region’s transformation, Thousand Island Lake is more than just a pretty place — it's a gateway into history, nature, and the power of human engineering.
In this video, I explore the natural beauty of the lake, dive into its intriguing history, visit the local museum, and reflect on the stories hidden beneath the water.

Thirty seconds of underwater footage used in the video has been credited to Carolyn Wang.
   • Scuba Diving the Underwater Ancient R...  
You can watch this part from 2:46 to 3:17.

Music used in this video:
   / @nicechinesemusic  
   • No Copyright Music,Traditional Chines...  
   • No Copyright Music,Beautiful Chinese ...   In Search of Our Better Selves by

In Search of Our Better Selves by Nikos Spiliotis
http://y2u.be/ChEYsj4a5EA