Three-Day Trip Around Danjiangkou Reservoir

Three-Day Self-Driving Tour Around the Reservoir

Danjiangkou Reservoir, like a brilliant pearl, is set on the earth.

The vast water surface glistens, reflecting the sky and mountains, dreamlike and surreal.

A gentle breeze ripples the water, bringing peace and poetry.

Here comes a no-brainer guide for self-driving around Danjiangkou Reservoir.

· Morning: Depart from your starting point to Danjiangkou. Upon arrival, visit the Danjiang Dam (paid entry) to admire its magnificent views. Not far from the dam is Canglanghai Tourist Port, where you can enjoy the beautiful lake and mountain scenery. You may choose to take a boat tour to appreciate the islands and landscapes on the lake. There are also boats to Baixi Island, but time is tight, so it's recommended to drive to Baixi Island instead.

· Opposite Canglanghai lies the South-to-North Water Diversion Middle Route Project Memorial Park (large area; spend time there if interested) to learn about the history of the middle route project.

· Then navigate to the Thousand Island Gallery Scenic Area, which features various islands in different shapes and the continuous scenery of rippling lakes. Admission is free. (You can drive directly to the viewing platform; during holidays with many visitors, you may need to walk for half an hour to enter the island.) There are many farm stays offering food and lodging. Continue ahead to Bishui Liantian to enjoy beautiful sunsets and evening glow.

· There are not many hotels in Danjiangkou city proper; it is recommended to book in advance at the Han Dan Kairui International Hotel near Canglanghai.

· Morning: Navigate to Baixi Island, an island close to the shore. It takes about an hour by car from Danjiangkou city. After buying a ticket, drive another 2 km to reach the ferry point, then a three-minute boat ride takes you to the island. (It is recommended to bring camping chairs, a tent, and light snacks.) The island is small; a full loop takes only 20 minutes. But sitting by the shore, feeling the breeze and listening to the waves is very pleasant. Most importantly, it's great for taking photos!

· Afternoon: Visit Zuochangu (admission 55 yuan), a summer resort with a natural coolness, especially suitable for hot weather. Enjoy the natural scenery of Water Curtain Cave, and experience the solemnity and tranquility of Buddhist culture. You can visit temples and pray.

· After Zuochangu, you can head to Xiangyan Temple (admission 70 yuan, adjacent). This is a historic Buddhist temple where Emperor Xuanzong of Tang once took refuge and became a monk. Later, after Emperor Wuzong died, he returned to the capital and ascended the throne. Xiangyan Temple has a unique architectural style and preserves many precious cultural relics and artworks, such as wood carvings, stone carvings, and brick carvings, which have high artistic value.

· Accommodation: Stay at a local hotel, or cross the ferry to Danjiang Grand View Garden and stay at Fusen Peninsula Holiday Hotel.

· Morning: Visit Danjiang Grand View Garden. Take a passenger ferry to admire the charming scenery on both sides, ride the wind and waves, and experience the Central Plains version of "Dongji Island." Admission to Grand View Garden is 89 yuan; it is recommended to buy a combo ticket for 180 yuan (includes admission, shuttle bus, and boat ride).

· After the Danjiang Grand View Garden, you can head to Songgang Pier to taste delicious fish dishes from Danjiang. Steamed egg with silverfish, steamed fish fillet, pan-fried white fish, green onion-flavored bass... every dish is a delight.

1. Check opening hours and ticket information in advance to better plan your itinerary.

2. Pay attention to the weather, and bring suitable clothing and sunscreen.

3. When taking a boat tour, pay attention to safety and follow the crew's instructions.

4. Respect local religious and cultural customs, and keep the environment clean.

5. Arrange your time reasonably, allowing enough for transportation and rest.