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Suya Lake is perfect for a relaxing day out. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride, take a walk around the scenic lakeside, and explore the surrounding natural beauty. There are also opportunities for fishing, bird watching, and photography.
Built in 1958, Suya Lake is Asia's largest plain artificial reservoir. Located 6 kilometers west of Runan County, the reservoir covers an area of 239 square kilometers, stretching from Yuhuang Temple in the north to Yezhugang in the south, Guizhuang in the east, and Bieqiao in the west. The dam is 35.29 kilometers long and 58 meters high, with a 0.5-meter-long wave barrier and a crest width of 4-7 meters. It intercepts and stores water from upstream reservoirs such as Banqiao and Boshan Reservoirs, producing over 30 species of fish, with carp being the most abundant.
After its renovation was completed in 1989, Suya Lake boasts a vast expanse of water and a picturesque landscape, earning it the nickname "Man-Made Dongting Lake." The lakeside boasts numerous scenic spots and historical sites, including the Fairy Bridge, Huxian Temple, Swallow Pavilion, Golden City, and the White Horse General Temple. Furthermore, the stunning scenery of the over 50,000-acre forest park on its west bank, along with recreational facilities such as fishing parks, swimming pools, and a water park, has led to a growing number of visitors. Surrounding Suya Lake are tens of thousands of acres of verdant willows, and the reed marshes along its banks are a haven for wild ducks and other wildlife. The stunning scenery, described as "the setting sun and the solitary wild goose fly together, the autumn water blends with the vast sky," is truly breathtaking. It's not Jiangnan, but it's more so.
Temperate continental monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for about 2 hours
free
All day
Suya Lake is a serene and picturesque natural lake in Zhumadian, Henan, known for its role in local agriculture and wildlife. It serves as an important ecological zone and a recreational spot for locals and visitors alike.
Suya Lake is located in the outskirts of Zhumadian city, Henan Province. You can reach it by taxi or private car from Zhumadian city center. Public buses are also available, but they may take longer.
Suya Lake is open year-round, and the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to avoid crowds.
There is no entrance fee for Suya Lake itself, as it is a public space. However, some recreational activities like boat rides or fishing may have associated costs. These can be paid on-site.
No, there is no need to book tickets in advance for general entry. However, it’s advisable to book boat rides or other activities in advance during peak seasons.
It typically takes 2 to 3 hours to explore Suya Lake and enjoy activities such as boating, walking around the lake, and sightseeing. If you plan to fish or engage in other activities, allow for additional time.
The scenic lakeside walk, the boat rides, and the bird-watching spots are the main highlights. Don't miss the areas around the lake where you can see local wildlife and enjoy the tranquil environment.
There are no official guided tours or audio guides at Suya Lake, but local guides may be available for hire during peak seasons. Most guides speak Mandarin, but English-speaking guides may be scarce.
The best photography spots are along the lake’s edge, particularly near the boat docks where you can capture the reflections in the water. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best lighting for photos.
Start by walking around the lake’s edge, enjoy a boat ride, and then relax at one of the lakeside pavilions. If you’re interested in wildlife, spend some time at the bird-watching spots around the lake.
Suya Lake does not offer night visits or light shows. The area is peaceful and primarily visited during the day for outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and photography.
Suya Lake can get crowded on weekends and holidays, especially during the summer months. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays or early mornings before 9 AM.
Basic facilities are available, including public toilets, rest areas, and food vendors near the lake. There are also a few shops selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs.
Suya Lake is generally accessible for elderly and children, with paved paths around the lake. However, some areas may be difficult for wheelchair users due to the natural terrain.
While cash is accepted, mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used. It's advisable to use mobile payments for convenience.
There are a few small local restaurants near Suya Lake serving traditional Henan cuisine, including noodle dishes and local snacks. For more options, head to Zhumadian city center where a variety of restaurants are available.
Vegetarian food options are available at some of the local restaurants, but vegan and halal food may be more limited. It's best to check with restaurants in advance if you have specific dietary preferences.
There are several budget hotels and guesthouses in Zhumadian city center, which is about 30 minutes away from Suya Lake by taxi. For more luxury options, look for accommodations in nearby cities.
Nearby attractions include the Zhumadian Forest Park and the local cultural heritage sites in the city center. Both can easily be combined with a visit to Suya Lake for a full day trip.
Souvenir shops around Suya Lake offer local crafts, such as handmade items and traditional Henan handicrafts. Local snacks and small trinkets are also available as souvenirs.
After visiting Suya Lake, taxis or buses are the best options to continue your trip. You can also use local public transportation to explore Zhumadian city or head to nearby tourist sites.
