Sanshan Island is a charming place. When spring comes, it is so beautiful that it makes one feel as if being in a gentle breeze and soft clouds. Taking advantage of the pleasant spring weather, one can steal a moment of leisure. On the weekend, I came to this small island with friends for a two-day trip in the mountains and lived like an islander. Transportation: Starting from downtown Suzhou, navigate to Changqi Wharf of Sanshan Island. It takes about an hour to reach by car. There is a parking lot opposite the wharf. You can also navigate to Shigongshan Wharf in Xishan. You can take a ferry or speedboat to the island. The ferry ticket costs 20 yuan plus the entrance ticket to the island is 78 yuan. You can also choose a speedboat for 280 yuan per boat. The ferry can reach the island in more than 20 minutes, while the speedboat only takes about four or five minutes. Tourist Route: After arriving on the island, we can go to the pre-booked farmhouse or homestay, put down our luggage and start our two-day and one-night trip on the small island. The island loop is not very large, about 7 kilometers. You can choose to walk slowly or rent a tandem bicycle. Stopping and going while enjoying the lake breeze is very pleasant. On the first day, walk along the willow trees on both sides from Xianqi Wharf. Not far away, there is a wetland teahouse, which is quiet and secluded. We can go fishing or boating, but I prefer to make a pot of tea. Smelling the faint fragrance of tea and looking at the small fish in the lake while daydreaming makes me feel relaxed. Continuing to walk forward and riding for a while, following the signs, we come to the water activity center. Here, we can operate our own motorboat. Four people can ride for thirty minutes. Professional staff will tell us how to operate it. This is highly recommended. Driving a small boat and speeding on the sparkling lake. Does it sound exciting? In addition, there is an expansion base with projects such as high-altitude frames and cliff rappelling. If you like these outdoor activities, you can’t miss it. You can come here to challenge yourself. Time passes quickly. Before we know it, it is almost evening. Riding a bicycle slowly along the island loop road and passing by Xihu Wharf. There are straw-covered boat sheds nearby, which are very distinctive. I think Xihu Wharf is a good place to watch the sunset on the entire small island. Standing by the lake and squinting slightly to look at the setting sun in the distance, we can vaguely see the small islands in the distance.
On the second day, everyone can get up early to watch the sunrise. Set an alarm clock and go to the east side of the small island. Watch the sun rise slowly from the lake surface and then go back to have breakfast. Today, we are going to climb the mountain. Coming to Niangniang Temple, and then going up is the way to climb the mountain. After walking up many steps, we will see a narrow and steep crevice. The crevice is also the essence of this mountain. There are also Banbi Peak, Sphinx Rock and Sunset Slope.
The mountains here are not particularly tall, and though they may not offer the breathtaking views of other grand mountains, their delicate and natural beauty allows for a long and thoughtful appreciation.
For culinary recommendations, most of the island’s dining options center around agritourism, which I personally enjoy. The dishes are fresh, delicious, and perfectly seasoned. Currently, the island is abundant in Biluochun tea, which you may take home if you like.
After completing this circuit, it is time to depart. This journey of spiritual cleansing can bring a sense of tranquility to my heart for a while. Upon returning to the hustle and bustle of the metropolis, I will miss the leisurely pace of this island. In times of trouble or distress, I will know that I can visit this island for a moment of peace.
Opening Hours: All year round from 09:00 to 17:00
Preferential Policies: Children: Children aged 6 (inclusive) or under 1.4 meters (inclusive) in height accompanied by adults enter for free.
Students, Children, and Elderly: Those between 1.4 meters (exclusive) and 1.6 meters (inclusive) in height or aged between 6 (exclusive) and 18 (inclusive), full-time university students and below, and individuals aged 60 (inclusive) to 70 (exclusive) enjoy half-price admission.
Elderly: Individuals aged 70 (inclusive) and above with identification are admitted for free.
Military Personnel: Active-duty soldiers with military ID and retired military officers with retirement certificates enter for free.
Disabled Individuals: Persons with disabilities with a disability certificate and revolutionary disabled soldiers with valid certificates enter for free.
Model Workers: Suzhou labor models with valid certificates enter for free.
Sanshan Island
Sanshan Island is a charming place. When spring comes, it is so beautiful that it makes one feel as [...]
