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Visitors to Hualong Lake can enjoy boat rides across the picturesque lake, surrounded by lush greenery and serene landscapes. Hiking along the scenic trails around the lake is a great way to explore the area. The lake is also ideal for photography, particularly during sunrise and sunset when the light creates beautiful reflections on the water.
Hualong Lake, located across from the Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture government, is surrounded by a crisscrossing forest. Two arched bridges span the Panlong River, and at night, illuminated, they resemble two soaring yellow dragons. The scenic area also features a musical fountain at 7 p.m. on holidays, making it a great place for a relaxing after-dinner stroll.
The subtropical monsoon climate offers mild winters and mild summers, with cool, dry weather and warm, rainy weather coexisting in the same seasons. The annual temperature difference is small, and the oceanic climate is more pronounced, with spring temperatures higher than autumn. It is suitable for travel in all four seasons.
It is recommended to play for about 30 minutes.
free
Open all day
Hualong Lake is an important natural landmark in Wenshan, Yunnan. Known for its clear waters and surrounding mountainous scenery, it holds ecological significance as a habitat for various aquatic species and local wildlife. It is also a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and serves as a popular destination for eco-tourism.
Hualong Lake is located in Wenshan Prefecture, Yunnan. To get there, you can take a bus or taxi from the nearby Wenshan city. It is recommended to use a taxi or private car for more convenience as public transportation options are limited. Walking around the lake is an enjoyable way to explore once you arrive.
Hualong Lake is open year-round, with the best times to visit being during spring and autumn when the weather is most pleasant. The ideal time for photography is during the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and the surroundings are calm.
The entrance fee is around 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or through local online platforms. It is recommended to buy tickets online in advance, especially during busy seasons.
Advance booking is not mandatory, but it is advisable to book tickets a few days in advance during peak tourist seasons or public holidays to avoid long queues and ensure entry.
Most visitors spend about 2-3 hours exploring Hualong Lake, including time for a boat ride, a walk along the shore, and hiking. If you plan to take a longer hike or spend more time photographing the surroundings, you might need an additional hour or two.
The main highlight of Hualong Lake is the serene waters surrounded by lush forests and mountains. The lake’s shoreline offers beautiful spots for walking and photography, and the nearby hills provide panoramic views of the lake and surrounding areas.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some local guides may offer services in English. Audio guides in Chinese are also available, but it is best to book a guide if you want an English-speaking tour.
The best photography spots are along the lake’s shores and the nearby hills, which offer sweeping views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Sunrise and sunset are particularly beautiful times for capturing the lake’s reflections and vibrant colors.
Start by walking along the lake’s shore to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Afterward, take a boat ride to experience the lake from a different perspective. Conclude with a hike up to the nearby hills for panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.
There are no night visits or light shows at Hualong Lake. The attraction is best enjoyed during the daytime for outdoor activities such as boating, hiking, and photography.
Hualong Lake can be quite busy during weekends and national holidays. For a more tranquil experience, it’s best to visit during weekdays or in the off-season (spring and autumn). Early mornings or late afternoons are also quieter times to visit.
Basic facilities such as public toilets, food stalls, and rest areas are available near the entrance and around the lake. There are also small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs. Larger dining options and accommodations can be found in Wenshan city.
The area is generally accessible for elderly and children, but some of the hiking trails may be difficult for visitors with limited mobility. It’s advisable to check with the staff for accessible routes or alternatives if needed.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used and preferred. Credit cards may not be accepted in remote areas, so it is best to use mobile payments or carry cash.
There are small restaurants and eateries near the lake offering simple local dishes. For a wider variety of dining options, you can head to Wenshan city, which has more restaurants and cafes catering to different tastes.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some of the local restaurants near the lake. However, halal food options are limited, and you may need to visit larger cities like Wenshan for more variety.
There are a few guesthouses and budget accommodations near Hualong Lake. For more luxurious options, you may need to stay in Wenshan city, where there are a range of hotels and resorts.
Nearby attractions include the Wenshan Tea Plantations and the Red River Valley, which are both great for nature lovers. These can easily be combined into a day trip with Hualong Lake.
Local souvenir shops near the lake sell handicrafts such as woven baskets, local textiles, tea, and wooden carvings. These items make for great mementos of your visit to the area.
After visiting Hualong Lake, you can continue your journey by taxi or bus to Wenshan city. From there, you can access long-distance buses or taxis to other destinations within Yunnan, such as Kunming or Gejiu.
