Shicheng: The Ancient Underwater Lion City of China

Hidden beneath the tranquil surface of Qiandao Lake (Thousand Island Lake) lies a breathtaking relic of the past: the ancient city of Shicheng, often referred to as the 'Atlantis of the East.' Built during the Han and Tang dynasties (25-907 AD) and reaching its peak during the Ming and Qing eras, this architectural marvel was intentionally submerged in 1959 to make way for the Xin'an River hydropower dam. For decades, the city was largely forgotten, until a government expedition in 2001 rediscovered its remarkably preserved ruins 40 meters below the surface.

Because the city is submerged in freshwater and protected from sunlight and oxygen, the structures remain in near-perfect condition. Divers have documented intricate stone carvings of lions, dragons, and phoenixes, many dating back to 1777. The city’s five gates, traditional houses, and paved roads remain intact, offering a literal snapshot of ancient Chinese life. Shicheng is now protected as a historical site by Zhejiang Province and has become a bucket-list destination for technical divers and history buffs. Unlike the mythical Atlantis, Shicheng’s fate was a calculated sacrifice for modernization, but its underwater preservation has turned it into one of the most unique archaeological sites in the world. This gallery explores the haunting beauty of the Lion City and the secrets that still lie within its submerged walls.

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