Baofeng Lake
Baofeng Lake, a shimmering highland reservoir nestled in Zhangjiajie’s Wulingyuan Scenic Area, is a UNESCO-listed marvel renowned for its emerald waters, towering karst peaks, and rich Tujia minority culture. Created by a hydroelectric dam in the 1970s, the lake spans 2.5 square kilometers and reflects the surrounding sandstone pillars like a mirror, earning it the nickname “Fairyland on Earth.” A haven for boat tours, hiking, and cultural immersion, it offers a serene escape from the crowds of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
Historical Overview
Creation: Formed in 1974 after the construction of the Baofeng Dam, which submerged a historic valley but preserved its natural beauty.
Cultural Roots: Home to the Tujia people for centuries, the area features ancient villages, folk songs, and the unique “Tujia love song” tradition.
UNESCO Recognition: Inscribed as part of the Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area in 1992 for its geological and cultural significance.
Modern Development: The 2001 opening of the lake’s cruise tours and 2016 addition of glass-bottomed boats elevated its status as a must-see destination.
Key Events: Hosted the 2018 International Folk Music Festival and annual Dragon Boat Races.
Structural Layout
- Geographical Features:
Lake Surface: 2.5 km², reaching depths of 72 meters, fed by underground springs and mountain runoff.
Surrounding Peaks: Over 100 quartz-sandstone pillars, including the iconic “Echoing Wall” (1,080 meters tall).
Dam Structure: A 50-meter-tall concrete dam with viewing platforms and a hydroelectric station.
- Key Zones:
Cruise Zone: Boat docks, the “Fairy Maid’s Bamboo Grove,” and the “Nine Heavens Staircase” waterfall.
Cultural Zone: Tujia Folk Custom Village, featuring stilt houses, embroidery workshops, and a performance stage.
Hiking Trails: A 6-kilometer loop around the lake with pavilions and vista points.
- Supporting Infrastructure:
Restaurants, souvenir stalls, and a visitor center with multimedia exhibits.
Major Attractions
Baofeng Lake Cruise: A 45-minute boat ride with commentary on Tujia legends and geological formations.
Echoing Wall: A cliff that amplifies voices across the lake—shout a Tujia folk song for an echo.
Tujia Folk Custom Village: Watch traditional dances, hear the “Crying Marriage Song,” and try sticky rice cakes.
Nine Heavens Staircase: A 100-meter waterfall cascading into the lake, best viewed from the dam.
Moonlight Island: A small islet accessible by boat, ideal for sunset photography.
Glass-Bottomed Boats: Glide over submerged ruins and fish schools (¥50 add-on).
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (2–3 hours):
Cruise → Echoing Wall → Tujia Village → Nine Heavens Staircase → Dam Viewpoint.
Highlights: Boat tour, cultural performances, and waterfall views.
- Cultural Route (4–5 hours):
Tujia Village (embroidery workshop) → Cruise → Moonlight Island → Local Restaurant (Tujia cuisine) → Evening Dance Show.
Highlights: Hands-on crafts, sunset photography, and folk music.
- Adventure Route (Full Day):
Hiking Trail → Cruise → Glass-Bottomed Boat → Dam Viewpoint → Tujia Village (overnight homestay option).
Highlights: Trekking, underwater exploration, and rural immersion.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via Ctrip, Fliggy, or the official Wulingyuan website (up to 7 days in advance).
On-Site: Tickets at the visitor center; arrive early to avoid queues.
- Prices:
Adults: ¥96 (peak season), ¥64 (off-season).
Students/Seniors: ¥48 (peak), ¥32 (off-season).
Combo Deals: ¥150 for Baofeng Lake + Tianzi Mountain.
Free: Children under 1.3m, disabled visitors.
Transportation
By Bus: From Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station, take the Wulingyuan shuttle (¥12, 40 minutes) to Baofeng Lake stop.
By Taxi: Direct from Zhangjiajie City (¥80–¥100) or Wulingyuan Town (¥20).
By Tour Group: Half-day tours from Zhangjiajie include hotel pickup (¥150–¥200).
Departure: Buses depart hourly until 6 PM; taxis available for late returns.
Best Time & Tips
Peak Hours: Avoid 11 AM–2 PM (tour groups); visit early (8 AM opening) or stay for sunset.
Weather: April–May (misty peaks) and September–October (clear skies); avoid July–August (rain).
- Essentials:
Wear waterproof shoes (trail bridges get slippery).
Bring a raincoat (sudden showers common in summer).
Learn a Tujia greeting: “Bazui” (hello) or “Alia” (thank you).
Prohibitions: No swimming, fishing, or drone use without permits.
Insider Tip: Visit after 5 PM for discounted tickets (¥50) and fewer crowds.
FAQ
Where is the "Fairy Looking in the Mirror" landscape of Baofeng Lake located?
The "Fairy Looking in the Mirror" is on the lake. It is a tall and graceful stone peak. Looking up from 2 meters above the lake, the flat part is like the left - side face of a beautiful woman, as if she is dressing up in front of the lake.
What is the best way to tour Baofeng Lake?
The best way is to take a boat tour on the lake, which allows you to enjoy the lake scenery and view various scenic spots such as "Fairy Looking in the Mirror" and "Golden Toad Holding the Moon" up - close. You can also climb to Yingwozhai or the mountain - top viewing platform to overlook the lake and the waterfall, enjoying a different perspective of the scenery.
What special delicacies can be tasted in Baofeng Lake scenic area?
You can taste Tujia - style delicacies, such as bacon and pickled - cabbage fish. There are also some Tujia snacks in the scenic area, and the spicy sauce is a Tujia flavor that you must try.
What souvenirs can be purchased in Baofeng Lake scenic area?
You can buy some Tujia and other ethnic minority handicrafts, such as embroidery, wood - carvings, and some tourism - related souvenirs, which can be used as a memorial to take home.
Is there a direct bus from Zhangjiajie West Station to Baofeng Lake?
Yes, you can take the urban - area to Jiangya Line B at Zhangjiajie West Bus Station and get off at Baofeng Lake Station.
