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Located in the northern part of Ejin Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Juyan Lake is long, narrow, and curved, resembling a crescent moon. The Ejin River, which flows into the lake, is its primary water source. "Juyan" is a Xiongnu language, translated as "weak water and quicksand" in the "Shui Jing Zhu" (Notes on the Classic of Waterways). It was called Juyan Lake during the Han Dynasty, the Western Sea during the Wei and Jin Dynasties, and Juyan Lake since the Tang Dynasty. It is currently known as Swan Lake.
Many famous people have visited this area throughout history, including Huo Qubing and Zhang Qian of the Han Dynasty and the great Tang Dynasty poet Wang Wei, all of whom left their footprints here. Historically, Juyan Lake was very large and one of the largest lakes in northwest my country. It consisted of the current East Juyan Lake (also known as Subon Nur) and West Juyan Lake (also known as Gashun Nur), as well as other lakes. The Juyan Lake that tourists visit today refers to East Juyan Lake (Supon Nur), as the other lakes have dried up (West Juyan Lake has begun to recover through continuous water replenishment in recent years).
Temperate continental climate;
Best in summer and autumn
30 yuan
Open all day
Juyan Lake is historically significant for its ancient archaeological sites, including the remains of Buddhist temples. It is also part of the Gobi Desert's ecosystem, providing water to migratory birds and supporting unique desert flora and fauna.
Juyan Lake is located in Alxa League, Inner Mongolia. The nearest major city is Yinchuan, about 450 km away. Visitors typically travel by car or taxi, as there are no direct metro or bus routes to the lake. Private tours or guided trips are also popular options.
Juyan Lake is accessible year-round, but the best times to visit are from April to October, when the weather is more temperate. The summer months are ideal for boat rides and outdoor activities, while spring and autumn offer great bird watching opportunities.
Entrance fees vary depending on the tour packages. Typically, fees range from 50 to 150 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through travel agencies, especially when booking a guided tour.
While tickets can be purchased on-site, it is advisable to book in advance during the peak tourist season (April to October) to avoid long waits or fully booked tours. Booking a few days in advance is generally sufficient.
To explore Juyan Lake thoroughly, a half-day trip is typically sufficient. However, if you wish to take a boat ride, explore surrounding ruins, and enjoy bird watching, a full day is recommended.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides are less common, but some tours may provide this service for a more in-depth experience.
Start by visiting the ancient ruins around the lake, then take a boat ride to enjoy the water and landscape. Conclude with bird watching, particularly at dawn or dusk when birds are most active.
Night visits are generally not available, but the area is known for stargazing due to its remote location and clear skies. No light shows are offered, but the lake’s natural beauty at night is remarkable.
Juyan Lake is less crowded during the winter months (November to March) and on weekdays. Weekends and holidays, especially in summer, can see larger crowds.
Basic facilities like toilets and water are available near the lake. There are small shops offering snacks, but it's advisable to bring your own food and water for extended visits.
Due to the natural terrain, the area may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, the lake and surrounding areas are accessible with some effort. It’s advisable to consult with local tour operators for accessible options.
Cash is commonly accepted, but mobile payments (Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely used in the area. Credit cards are less likely to be accepted in remote areas.
There are no major restaurants or cafes inside the immediate area, but small local eateries serving Mongolian cuisine are available in nearby towns. For more options, Yinchuan is a better choice for dining.
Local eateries serve traditional Mongolian meat dishes, but vegetarian options may be available. Halal food is also commonly found due to the local Hui Muslim population.
Accommodation near Juyan Lake is limited to guesthouses and basic hotels in Alxa Left Banner. For more luxury options, Yinchuan offers a wider range of accommodations.
Small souvenir shops near the lake sell local crafts, including Mongolian textiles, leather goods, and items related to desert life. You can also find souvenirs made from camel wool and local ceramics.
After visiting Juyan Lake, private car, taxi, or a tour bus are the best options for continuing your trip. For longer journeys, Yinchuan serves as a transportation hub with buses and trains to other destinations in Inner Mongolia.
