What's make Lion City a unique places underwater?
This city is between 85 and 131 feet underwater. Hidden in the depths of Qiandao Lake in China. The city 'Shi Cheng' was once a political and economic hub for eastern China in province of Zhejiang but after authorities built the man-made Qiandao Lake in 1959, it is nowhere to be seen. The city, which is now dubbed "Lion City" because it is tucked between the Five Lion Mountains, then lay forgotten for 53 years in the man-made lake.But since being rediscovered in almost perfect condition, it has resurfaced as an underwater adventure park for tourists.
WHEN TO GO
April-October are the recommended months to visit, as there is warmer weather at the lake, and hopefully warmer water below the thermocline.
The colder air temperatures in Nov-March can make it uncomfortable for divers to do three dives in a day, particularly those diving in wetsuits.
Depending on the time of year, the water temperature can range from 7-16c.
THE DIVES
Although it is breathtaking, it's important to remember the differences between the conditions encountered here vs. clear ocean water.
All divers are required to do an initial 25ft dive in the lagoon, to ensure they are safe to continue.
Visibility at the surface is about 5ft at best, dropping down to a mere 6 inches in some places at the bottom of the lagoon.
But this isn't the only bizarre sunken city which has been uncovered after years of neglect
This city is between 85 and 131 feet underwater. Hidden in the depths of Qiandao Lake in China. The city 'Shi Cheng' was once a political and economic hub for eastern China in province of Zhejiang but after authorities built the man-made Qiandao Lake in 1959, it is nowhere to be seen. The city, which is now dubbed "Lion City" because it is tucked between the Five Lion Mountains, then lay forgotten for 53 years in the man-made lake.But since being rediscovered in almost perfect condition, it has resurfaced as an underwater adventure park for tourists.
WHEN TO GO
April-October are the recommended months to visit, as there is warmer weather at the lake, and hopefully warmer water below the thermocline.
The colder air temperatures in Nov-March can make it uncomfortable for divers to do three dives in a day, particularly those diving in wetsuits.
Depending on the time of year, the water temperature can range from 7-16c.
THE DIVES
Although it is breathtaking, it's important to remember the differences between the conditions encountered here vs. clear ocean water.
All divers are required to do an initial 25ft dive in the lagoon, to ensure they are safe to continue.
Visibility at the surface is about 5ft at best, dropping down to a mere 6 inches in some places at the bottom of the lagoon.
But this isn't the only bizarre sunken city which has been uncovered after years of neglect
Below: This is a sketch of the city dating back hundreds of years, showing people pacing the streets and goods being carted in on horseback
