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Jinming Pond, a famous imperial garden during the Northern Song Dynasty, was located outside the city of Bianliang (present-day Kaifeng). The garden's buildings were all built on water, allowing large ships to pass through the pond. During wartime, it served as a naval training ground. Zhang Zeduan's painting "Fighting for the Flag at Jinming Pond" depicts naval drills at Jinming Pond. Several literati also composed poems about Jinming Pond.
Jinming Pond, a prominent imperial garden during the Northern Song Dynasty, holds a prominent place in Chinese garden history. The ruins of Jinming Pond are a crucial component of the Northern Song Dynasty's Dongjing City ruins. Its discovery is crucial for exploring the overall layout of Dongjing, studying contemporary customs, and developing a conservation plan for the city.
A famous villa in the Northern Song Dynasty, also known as Xichi and Jiaochi, is located outside Shuntian Gate of Tokyo in the Song Dynasty. The ruins are located in the northwest of Nanzhengmenkou Village, southwest of Tucheng Village, east of Luzhuang and southeast of Xicaitun in the west of Kaifeng City.
Jinming Lake was first excavated during the Later Zhou Dynasty of the Five Dynasties, and was rebuilt many times during the Northern Song Dynasty, becoming a royal garden with a huge scale, complete layout and beautiful scenery.
With a warm temperate continental monsoon climate, the Jinming Lake Garden has beautiful scenery and magnificent architecture. In the Ming Dynasty, it was one of the "Eight Scenic Spots of Kaifeng" and was called "Night Rain at Jinchi". It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
All the buildings in the garden are built on water. The pond can accommodate large ships and was used as a naval training ground during wartime. You can go boating and admire the ancient water architecture.
It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.
free
Open all day
Jinming Lake is a well-known scenic area in Kaifeng, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. It has been a part of the city's culture for centuries, providing both a recreational space for locals and a picturesque destination for tourists. The lake is surrounded by cultural landmarks and is considered an integral part of the city’s charm.
Jinming Lake is located in the center of Kaifeng, Henan. It can be easily accessed by local buses, taxis, or walking from the city center. The lake is well-connected by public transport and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
Jinming Lake is open daily from 7 AM to 6 PM. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities like boating and walking.
The entrance fee is modest, and tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through online platforms for specific activities like boat rides. Most areas around the lake are free to explore, though certain services or events may require a ticket.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required unless you plan to participate in special activities like boat rides. It's recommended to book 1–2 days ahead for busy periods, such as weekends or public holidays.
You will need about 2–3 hours to explore Jinming Lake fully, including time for a boat ride, walking around the lake, and relaxing at the pavilions and gardens.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in English and other languages may be available for specific activities or events, but it’s best to inquire in advance during peak tourist seasons.
Start at the main entrance and walk around the lake, enjoying the scenic views. Take a boat ride if desired, then explore the surrounding gardens and pavilions. End your visit by relaxing at one of the lakeside cafes or pavilions.
Night visits are available, and the lake is beautifully lit up in the evening. Light shows and cultural performances may be scheduled during festivals or holidays. Check the local tourism website for any night-time events or special tours.
The lake can get crowded during weekends, holidays, and peak tourist seasons. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays, particularly during the off-season months.
Yes, the attraction is generally accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. There are paved walkways and wheelchair-friendly paths around the lake, but some areas with stairs or bridges may pose challenges for those with limited mobility.
Cash, as well as mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay), are widely accepted. Credit cards may be accepted at some larger establishments, but it’s best to have cash or a mobile payment option available.
Several lakeside cafes offer traditional Chinese tea and snacks. In the nearby city center, a variety of restaurants are available, offering local cuisine and international dishes.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some lakeside cafes and in nearby restaurants. Halal food can be found in the Muslim Quarter of Kaifeng, offering a range of authentic dishes.
There are several hotels within walking distance of Jinming Lake, ranging from budget to mid-range options. For more luxury accommodations, you may want to stay in the city center or near the lake's other attractions.
Souvenir shops near the lake sell items such as traditional Chinese tea sets, calligraphy works, silk products, and decorative arts inspired by the lake’s natural beauty.
Taxis and local buses are readily available to continue your trip to other parts of Kaifeng. If you're traveling to nearby cities, Kaifeng Railway Station provides easy access to train services.
