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At Lashihai, you can enjoy activities such as hiking around the scenic lake, birdwatching, and taking boat rides across the calm waters. It’s a great spot for photography, with its lush greenery and reflection of the surrounding mountains in the water. You can also visit the nearby wetlands and explore the diverse flora and fauna. Cycling around the lake is another popular option for those who enjoy outdoor activities. For a peaceful experience, you can simply stroll along the lake and relax at one of the peaceful spots by the water.
Lashi Lake is located 10 kilometers west of Lijiang City. It is the largest plateau lake in Lijiang and the first nature reserve named "wetland" in Yunnan Province. "Lashi" is the ancient Naxi language translation.
"La" means "a wasteland" and "Shi" means "new", which means a new wasteland. Every year, about 30,000 water birds come here to spend the winter. The scenery here is very beautiful, with mountains and waters complementing each other and surrounded by lush greenery.
There are many beautiful villages around Lashi Lake, belonging to the Naxi and Yi ethnic groups. Most of these villages with a strong sense of life are named after their relative locations to Lashi Lake, such as "Hainan Village",
"Haibei" Village. Almost every village has its own interesting and unique architecture; and there is also a forest here that is regarded as a "sacred forest" by the Naxi and Yi people.
Lashi Lake is suitable for tourism in all seasons, but December to March is the best time to watch birds.
Recommended play time: half a day
20 yuan/person
8:00-17:00
Lashihai is a natural reserve located near Lijiang and is important both ecologically and culturally. The area was historically a grazing ground for local Naxi people and has evolved into a nature reserve. It plays a critical role in maintaining biodiversity and is especially known for being home to migratory birds, making it a valuable location for wildlife enthusiasts.
Lashihai is located approximately 15 kilometers from Lijiang Old Town in Yunnan Province. It is accessible by taxi or private car, and the journey takes around 20 minutes. There are also local buses from Lijiang to the lake. Walking is not a practical option due to the distance, but once you're at the lake, walking or cycling around it is very enjoyable.
Lashihai is a natural area, so it is open year-round. The best time to visit is in spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the natural surroundings are most picturesque. Summer is also a good time, especially for birdwatching, while winter can be cold but offers a quieter experience. It is best to visit during daylight hours to fully enjoy the outdoor activities.
The entrance to Lashihai is generally free, as it is a public natural reserve. However, certain activities such as boat rides, cycling rentals, and guided tours may have additional fees. These can be paid on-site, and it's advisable to check for any additional charges for specific attractions or services within the area.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary, as the area is open to the public and not highly regulated. However, for specific tours or if you're planning to visit during peak seasons, booking a boat ride or a guided tour in advance is recommended to ensure availability.
You can spend anywhere from 2 to 4 hours exploring Lashihai, depending on how much time you wish to spend on activities like hiking, birdwatching, and taking boat rides. For those looking to relax and enjoy the scenery, half a day is sufficient. If you want to explore the surrounding wetlands and do more extensive hiking, you might need a full day.
The main highlights include the serene Lashihai Lake itself, the surrounding wetlands, and the migratory birds that frequent the area. The best views can be enjoyed from the small hills around the lake, and the nearby forests provide a scenic backdrop for hikes. You should also visit the boat dock area for a peaceful boat ride on the lake.
Guided tours are available at Lashihai, typically in Chinese, but some guides can offer services in English. Audio guides are generally not available, so it's best to opt for a local guide if you wish to learn more about the area's flora, fauna, and cultural significance. Many local guides are knowledgeable and will enhance your experience.
The best viewpoints at Lashihai are along the shores of the lake and from the small hills surrounding the area. The reflection of the surrounding mountains and forests in the water provides perfect photography opportunities. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for capturing the natural beauty of the area.
Start by walking along the lakeside path to take in the views. Afterward, you can take a boat ride to explore the lake from the water. Cycling around the lake is another great option. If you're interested in birdwatching, head toward the wetlands area where migratory birds are often spotted. Finish your visit with a relaxing break at one of the cafes or rest areas by the lake.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Lashihai, as it is a natural reserve focused on outdoor activities during the day. However, you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the lake at sunset, which provides a unique and serene experience.
Lashihai is generally not crowded, but it can get busier during weekends and holidays, especially in the summer. The least crowded times are early in the morning or during weekdays, and visiting in the off-season (fall or winter) will also help avoid the crowds.
Lashihai has basic facilities including public toilets, water stations, and rest areas where you can relax. There are a few small shops around the area where you can buy snacks and souvenirs. For a more substantial meal, you can find local restaurants serving Yunnan cuisine near the lake.
The main walking paths around Lashihai are generally accessible, but the terrain can be uneven in some areas, especially around the wetlands. Elderly and disabled visitors may find some parts of the area challenging, but there are accessible paths and rest areas. Children will enjoy the open spaces and boat rides.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted in Lashihai, and most establishments also accept credit cards. It is still a good idea to carry some cash for small transactions, especially in more remote areas.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes around Lashihai, offering a variety of Yunnan-style dishes. These include simple eateries serving noodles, rice dishes, and local snacks. Some cafes near the lake provide a relaxing spot with beautiful views to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many of the local eateries, with dishes featuring tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables. Halal food is less common, but there are some restaurants in Lijiang Old Town that offer halal options.
There are a variety of guesthouses and boutique hotels around Lashihai, offering convenient access to the lake and surrounding nature. For more luxury options, you can find accommodations in Lijiang Old Town, just a short drive away.
Nearby attractions include Lijiang Old Town, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and the Black Dragon Pool. These can all be combined with a visit to Lashihai for a full day of sightseeing.
There are small souvenir shops near Lashihai selling local handicrafts, including Naxi-style jewelry, woven textiles, and pottery. The area also sells traditional Yunnan teas and local snacks that make for great souvenirs.
After visiting Lashihai, you can take a taxi or bus back to Lijiang. For further travel, Lijiang has good transportation options, including buses, trains, and private car rentals to other destinations in Yunnan.
