Ningbo Siming Lake: A Complete Guide to Scenery, Food, Accommodation, and Transportation

Here is a comprehensive guide to Ningbo Siming Lake, covering transportation, attractions, food, and accommodation: Transportation By car: From downtown Ningbo, take the Huxi Line, which takes about 1.5 hours. If departing from Hangzhou, navigate to "Siming Lake Resort," with a driving time of approximately 1.5 hours. Public transport: First, reach Yuyao city, then take a minibus (e.g., Route 503) from Yuyao South Bus Station toward Liangnong to reach the vicinity of Siming Lake. Attractions Siming Lake Metasequoia Wetland: A free attraction where fiery-red metasequoia trees reflect on the clear lake, creating a stunning photo spot. In autumn and winter, the trees turn from green to red, resembling flames mirrored in the water—a breathtaking sight. Shanye Plan: A perfect spot to overlook Siming Lake and the distant mountain ranges, ideal for relaxing, sipping coffee, and taking photos. You could easily spend an entire afternoon here. Jade Rabbit Island: The largest island in Siming Lake, covering about 270 acres and shaped like a rabbit. The island is lush with pine trees, bamboo groves, orchards, and tea plantations, now home to the Siming Lake Resort. Baishuichong Waterfall: After parking, a short 7–8 minute hike leads to the waterfall, where you can witness the spectacular sight of water cascading down the mountain stream. Nearby ancient villages: For example, Zhongcun Village, with a thousand-year history, features well-preserved landmarks like Baiyun Bridge and Xiansheng Temple’s ancient stage. Xiaolu Stream is great for water play, making it a perfect spot for families and couples. Food Recommendations Liangnong Dago: A traditional pastry from Liangnong Town, Yuyao, exquisitely shaped with a soft, sweet, and non-greasy taste, often adorned with auspicious patterns. Lake delicacies: Siming Lake is rich in fishery resources, offering dishes like steamed perch, braised turtle, and stir-fried shrimp, showcasing the fresh flavors of the water town. Yangming Cake: Made with local wine lees and minced pork, it boasts a rich and savory taste. Other treats: Grilled rice cakes, Sanxian Guoqiao, claypot chicken, as well as local snacks like Lubu Crispy Bean Candy and Yuyao pickled mustard tuber. Accommodation Options Siming Lake New Century Resort: Beautiful surroundings with complete facilities for a comfortable stay. Unique homestays: For example, Yuyao Yijia Homestay, lakeside and budget-friendly; Yuanxuanlu Guanpei Homestay, a traditional Chinese-style retreat nestled in the mountains, ideal for those seeking tranquility; Little Elephant Inn, near the wetland, offers affordable rates. Itinerary Suggestions One-Day Trip Morning: Head to Siming Lake, first visiting Shanye Plan to enjoy panoramic views and a coffee break. Then explore the Siming Lake Metasequoia Wetland, strolling and photographing the scenic metasequoias. Noon: Savor local specialties like Liangnong Dago and lake delicacies at a nearby farmhouse restaurant. Afternoon: Visit Jade Rabbit Island for a walk amid its natural and cultural landscapes. If time allows, stop by Baishuichong Waterfall to admire its grandeur. Evening: Before departing, find a lakeside spot to enjoy Siming Lake’s sunset. Two-Day Trip Day 1: Depart in the morning and arrive near Siming Lake by noon. After lunch at a farmhouse, visit the Siming Lake Metasequoia Wetland. In the afternoon, explore Zhongcun Village, wander its ancient streets, play in Xiaolu Stream, and admire landmarks like Baiyun Bridge. In the evening, enjoy the night view near the village’s covered bridge and experience local night markets. Day 2: Wake early to admire the morning scenery of Siming Lake, then visit Shanye Plan or Siming Mountain Viewing Platform for a bird’s-eye view of the lake and mountains. After lunch, head to Maohuo Ancient Tree Park or Shilin Village to marvel at nature’s wonders or enjoy fruit-picking before returning in the afternoon.