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According to legend, when Genghis Khan led his troops through this place, the golden cups he left behind turned into the Golden Sea. There is also a legend that a pair of golden sheep came down from the Yak Mountain, drank water by the lake, and tasted the mellow and sweet water. They did not want to go back to the mountain and instead entered the lake, so the lake was called the Golden Sea.
Arid continental climate
The west, northwest, and east sides of the sea are surrounded by sand dunes, so fine that it's tempting to walk barefoot and experience a more intimate contact with it. Only on the southeast side are tall reeds and a nearly 100-meter-long grass belt, attracting birds, cattle, and sheep to feed, play, and rest. When the water is too clear, there are no fish.
Nowadays, relevant departments have opened up tourist routes in Jinzihai, allowing tourists to sandboard, fish, play in the water, appreciate the natural beauty of the plateau desert, taste milk tea and mutton in the white yurts, watch Mongolian songs and dances, understand and experience ethnic customs, all of which will bring tourists into a simple and natural environment.
35 yuan
All day
Gold Sea is known for its mesmerizing beauty, with waters reflecting a golden hue that changes with the light. This natural lake has become a popular tourist destination due to its scenic allure and cultural significance in the region. It's also a symbol of prosperity for the local communities.
Gold Sea is located in Ulan, Qinghai, China. To get there, the best option is to take a taxi or private vehicle from Xining, the nearest city about 80 kilometers away. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car or joining a guided tour is ideal.
The site is open year-round, with the best times to visit during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. Sunrise and sunset offer the most stunning views of the lake, with the golden reflections making it a photographer's paradise.
There is an entrance fee to visit Gold Sea, but the price is generally affordable. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and it is advisable to buy them early during peak tourist seasons to avoid long lines.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually required, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Booking a few days ahead will ensure you secure a spot for any guided tours or special experiences.
A visit to Gold Sea typically takes 2-3 hours. However, if you want to take a leisurely walk along the lake, enjoy photography, or explore nearby attractions, you may want to allocate 4-5 hours.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some operators may offer English-speaking guides during the peak tourist season. There are no audio guides available at the site.
Start by walking along the shoreline, taking in the views of the lake. Then, explore nearby hills for panoramic views of the entire area. If time allows, visit the surrounding villages to experience the local culture.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at Gold Sea. However, the golden hue of the lake during sunset and early morning offers a beautiful spectacle that can be experienced during the day.
Gold Sea is generally not crowded, but it can become busier during Chinese holidays or weekends. The least crowded times to visit are early mornings and weekdays, particularly during the off-peak seasons.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available near the lake. However, there are no large shops or restaurants directly on-site, so it's recommended to bring your own water and snacks. Small local kiosks may be found in nearby areas.
While the site is accessible for children and elderly visitors, the terrain around the lake can be challenging for disabled individuals. Some areas may have uneven paths, but most visitors can explore the main viewing points with ease.
Cash is accepted at the site, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used in the area. Credit cards are typically not accepted, so it is advisable to carry cash or use mobile payment platforms.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly at the site, but nearby towns and villages offer local eateries serving regional food. You can find small restaurants offering Tibetan and Hui cuisine.
Some nearby restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options, especially in areas with a Muslim population. It's always best to ask about specific dietary preferences when ordering.
There are no hotels directly at Gold Sea. However, you can find several options in Xining, around 80 kilometers away. Xining offers a range of accommodations from budget hotels to more upscale options.
There are no large souvenir shops at Gold Sea, but nearby towns offer traditional handicrafts, Tibetan jewelry, and other local souvenirs that you can take home as a memento of your visit.
After visiting Gold Sea, the best transportation options are to return to Xining by taxi or private car. From there, you can continue your journey to nearby attractions like Qinghai Lake or the Kumbum Monastery.
