For travelers seeking a unique and scenic journey in eastern China, the boat ride between Shexian, Anhui, and Qiandao Lake in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, offers a rare and picturesque experience. Known as the last passenger ferry route in the Jiangnan region, this boat ride allows you to witness the ethereal mist of Xin’an River and enjoy the vast expanses of misty waters. Whether you are a photography enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy nature’s beauty, this boat tour will not disappoint.
Boat Route Details
The boat travels from Shexian Shendu Port (歙县深渡港) in Anhui to Qiandao Lake (千岛湖) in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, offering an unforgettable journey across the Xin’an River and into the vast Qiandao Lake. Here’s what you need to know about the schedule:
- Shexian to Qiandao Lake: Departs around 7:45 AM daily, arriving in Qiandao Lake at 12:10 PM.
- Qiandao Lake to Shexian: Departs around 12:30 PM, arriving at Shexian Shendu Port around 6:00 PM.
For those looking to capture the misty beauty of Xin’an River, it’s recommended to take the boat from Shexian to Qiandao Lake in the morning. The best time to experience the fog on the river is typically between 5:00 AM – 7:30 AM or 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM, when the temperature difference across the river creates mist, adding a mystical touch to your photos.
Ticket Information
The boat has two levels:
- Lower deck: 70 RMB
- Upper deck: 85 RMB
There are no official ticketing channels, but local guesthouses in Shexian can help you purchase tickets, as the owners are usually involved with the boat service. You can also buy tickets directly on the boat.
Note: During peak seasons, the ferry is a large three-story boat, and tickets for the upper deck may require an additional charge of 15 RMB per person to access the top level. However, the higher you go, the better the views—making it well worth the extra charge.
On the second deck, there are small private cabins available for an extra 50 RMB per person. You don’t need to book these in advance, but you can add them when you board if you wish.
Onboard Scenery
Anhui Section: As the boat sets off at 7:45 AM, it travels through the Xin’an River Landscape Gallery. Here, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the river’s mist and the traditional Huizhou-style villages that line the banks. The view is often described as “distant mountains like ink, near waters like mist,” offering a tranquil and ethereal atmosphere perfect for photography.
Zhejiang Section: About two hours into the journey, the boat crosses the border between Anhui and Zhejiang. As you enter Qiandao Lake, the scene transforms. The river widens into a vast lake, and the architectural style changes from the traditional Huizhou-style to Zhejiang’s sloped-roof designs. Approaching the Qiandao Lake pier, you’ll see the numerous small islands that give the lake its famous name, “Thousand Island Lake.”
Getting to Shexian Shendu Port
Take the high-speed train to Shexian North Station (歙县北站) and then a 40-minute taxi ride to Shendu Town (about 85 RMB). Alternatively, you can take a taxi to Shexian Square (歙县广场) and then transfer to a minibus to Shendu Town (深渡镇) for 10 RMB per person.
Tip: As the boat departs early in the morning, it’s recommended to stay overnight at a local guesthouse in Shendu Town near the Xin’an River Landscape Gallery. The guesthouse owners will often assist in getting you to the pier the following morning.
Additional Information
Food on the Boat: The boat offers some food options at reasonable prices. For instance, a bowl of bamboo shoots noodle soup costs 20 RMB, and it is quite fresh and tasty!
Local Experience: The ferry also serves as a daily transport for local residents, who use it as one of their main modes of travel within Anhui. The boat stops at various locations along the river, giving you a glimpse of local life as passengers board and disembark. Local residents typically pay 5 RMB per stop.