Nothing compares to the gentle spring breeze and the soft clouds, especially when escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. On a weekend, friends and I ventured to this small island, immersing ourselves in the tranquil island life.
Starting from Suzhou city center, it takes about an hour’s drive to reach the Changqi Wharf of SanShan Island. There is a parking lot right across the wharf. Alternatively, you can navigate to Xishan Shigong Mountain Wharf and take a ferry or speedboat to the island. The ferry ticket is 20 yuan plus an island entrance fee of 78 yuan, or opt for a speedboat at 280 yuan per boat. The ferry takes over 20 minutes to reach the island, while the speedboat takes about four to five minutes.
Upon arrival, we headed to our pre-booked farmhouse or B&B to drop off our luggage and begin our two-day island adventure. The island loop is not very large, approximately 7 kilometers, allowing for a leisurely walk or a bike ride. Renting a tandem bicycle to stop and go while enjoying the lake breeze is quite pleasant.
On the first day, we walked along the willow trees by the Qianqi Wharf, and not far away, we found a wetland teahouse, serene and quiet. Fishing or boating are options, but I prefer brewing a pot of tea, inhaling the faint scent, looking at the fish in the lake, and daydreaming, which makes one feel utterly relaxed. Continuing forward and riding for a while, we followed the signs to the water activities area, where we could operate our own motorboats, accommodating four people for thirty minutes. Professional staff instruct on how to maneuver the boats, which is highly recommended. Imagine driving a boat on the shimmering lake surface – quite thrilling.
Additionally, there is an adventure base with high-altitude frames and cliff rappelling for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Don’t miss the chance to challenge yourself here. Time flies, and as evening approaches, we cycled slowly along the island road, passing by the West Lake Wharf. The area features straw-thatched boat sheds, quite distinctive. I believe West Lake Wharf is the best spot on the island to watch the sunset, standing by the lake with a slight squint, watching the distant sun, and catching glimpses of other islands.
On the second day, we woke up early to watch the sunrise. After setting an alarm, we went to the east side of the island to see the sun slowly rise from the lake surface before returning for breakfast. Today’s plan was to climb the mountain. Starting from the Niangniang Temple, the path upwards leads us to the mountain trail. After climbing many steps, we reached the Thread Sky, a very narrow and steep section, which is considered the essence of the climb. There is also the Slab Peak, Sphinx Stone, and Sunset Slope.
The mountains are not tall, nor do they possess the breathtaking views of other grand mountains, yet their delicate and natural charm allow for a long, savoring appreciation.
For delicious recommendations, most of the dining on the island focuses on agritourism cuisine, which I particularly enjoy for its freshness, flavor, and just-right saltiness. Currently, the island is abundant with Biluochun tea; if you like it, you can take some home as a souvenir.
After completing this circuit, I prepare to leave. This journey of spiritual cleansing allows me to embrace tranquility for a while. Returning to the bustling metropolis, I will miss the leisurely pace of the island. When troubles arise in the future, I know I can find a moment of peace on this island.
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 free of charge.
Students, elderly: Individuals between 1.4 meters (exclusive) and 1.6 meters (inclusive) in height or aged between 6 (exclusive) and 18 (inclusive) years, full-time undergraduate students and below, and individuals aged between 60 (inclusive) and 70 (exclusive) years, receive half-price admission.
Elderly: Individuals aged 70 (inclusive) and above with a resident ID or senior citizen certificate enter free of charge.
Military personnel: Active-duty military personnel with a military ID and retired military officers with a retirement officer certificate enter free of charge.
Disabled individuals: Disabled individuals with a disability certificate and revolutionary disabled soldiers with valid documents enter free of charge.
Model workers: Model workers from Suzhou with valid documents enter free of charge.
SanShan Island – A Serene Getaway
Nothing compares to the gentle spring breeze and the soft clouds, especially when escaping the hustl[...]
