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Yanming Lake Scenic Area, located north of Zhongmu County, integrates forests, lakes, and wetlands. Surrounded by a verdant embankment, the scenic area offers vast expanses of misty waters. The lake is lush with aquatic plants and cattails. Beyond the embankment stretches endless golden rice fields. The lake itself is a paradise for waterfowl and the home of cattails.
Henan Province's largest fishing center is located here, with more than 4,000 acres of fish ponds lined up around the lake for you to fish to your heart's content. You can also drift around in a small boat and enjoy yourself. You can also take a couple's boat to walk alone in the Garden of Eden and experience the novelty of searching for cranes in the reed marshes, picking lotus flowers in the bushes, and playing hide-and-seek. You can also take the opportunity to step onto a motorboat and challenge the speed limit amidst the splashing waves.
The vast expanse of water, deep forests, dense grass, and abundant fish attract numerous bird species, with nearly 80 species breeding and thriving here each spring and summer. Yanming Lake hairy crabs and Yellow River carp have become popular tourist attractions. The crabs, naturally grown among the reeds, are yellow, plump, and nutritious, making them a favorite among tourists.
The season is suitable for all seasons, and you can enjoy Yanming Lake hairy crabs in late October.
The main attractions in the scenic area include waterside pavilions, moon reflected in the lotus pond, boating on Yanhu Lake, fun on Bird Island, spring dawn on the green embankment, curved railings facing the wind, arched blue waves, listening to cicadas in the deep forest, mist-filled willow forest, farmers cooking in the sunset, fishing by the lake, Moon Bay, Confucius' turning point and water recreation area.
Recommended play time: more than 3 hours
7:30-18:00
Yanming Lake Scenic Area is known for its natural beauty and cultural significance. It has a rich history, being named after the Yanming Temple, which is associated with Buddhist culture. The area is an ideal location for outdoor activities, relaxation, and enjoying the natural surroundings, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Yanming Lake Scenic Area is located in Zhengzhou, Henan Province. It can be accessed by bus or taxi from the city center. The lake is also within walking distance from nearby accommodations, making it accessible to pedestrians as well.
The scenic area is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Weekdays are less crowded compared to weekends, so if you prefer a quieter experience, visiting on a weekday is recommended.
The entrance fee is generally around 30 RMB per adult. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the scenic area, and during peak tourist seasons, it may be advisable to buy tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
It is not typically necessary to book tickets in advance, but for busy tourist seasons or weekends, it’s recommended to book a day or two in advance to secure your entry.
A visit to Yanming Lake Scenic Area typically takes about 2-3 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the lake, walking around the gardens, and visiting the temple.
Guided tours may be available upon request, typically in Mandarin. Audio guides in multiple languages may also be offered for those wishing to explore on their own, but availability may vary.
Some of the best photography spots are around the lake, particularly near the boat docks and the Yanming Temple. The panoramic views from the temple grounds also provide a beautiful backdrop for photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Start by visiting the Yanming Temple, then take a boat ride around the lake to enjoy the scenic views. Afterward, explore the walking paths along the lake, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful environment. Finish with a visit to the gardens or a picnic by the water.
Night visits are not a regular feature, and there are no ongoing light shows at Yanming Lake. However, special events or activities may occur during holidays or festivals, so it’s worth checking in advance for any special programs.
Weekends and public holidays tend to be the busiest times. The least crowded times are weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon, when visitors can enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere.
Yes, the attraction is accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. The pathways are mostly paved, making it easy to navigate. There are also resting areas along the way for those who may need to take breaks.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used in Zhengzhou and may be available for both ticket purchases and in-store transactions.
There are no major restaurants inside the scenic area, but there are various eateries and cafes located nearby, offering local Henan cuisine, snacks, and drinks.
Vegetarian and vegan options are usually available at local restaurants nearby. Halal food options may be limited in the area, but there are some halal restaurants in Zhengzhou.
There are several hotels in the area, including budget hotels and mid-range accommodations, that are easily accessible from Yanming Lake Scenic Area. For a more upscale experience, visitors can find hotels in the city center of Zhengzhou.
There are small souvenir shops near the park, selling items such as traditional Chinese handicrafts, local snacks, postcards, and small statues related to the scenic area and local culture.
After visiting Yanming Lake Scenic Area, taxis, public buses, or private car services are available for continued travel. The Zhengzhou Railway Station and Zhengzhou East Railway Station are well-connected by taxis and public transportation for those traveling further.
