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Yuqiao Reservoir, located east of Jixian County, is known locally as Cuiping Lake, named after Cuiping Mountain to its south. Cuiping Lake boasts a vast expanse of water and beautiful scenery, particularly stunning from atop Cuiping Mountain. Carp are abundant here, attracting many visitors. Numerous farmhouses and inns offer excellent dining and lodging options. Every April, the reservoir is teeming with waterfowl, including whooper swans, white storks, and white spoonbills. In winter, ice skating and snow-viewing are also available, making it a popular destination for relaxation and recreation near Beijing and Tianjin.
Climbing Cuiping Mountain, one can overlook the vast expanse of misty waters, where the water and sky merge into one. Boating on the lake, seagulls float up and down, and fish play east and west. On Cuiping's south bank, grapes weigh down the branches, and fruit and flowers fill the gardens. On the west bank, a levee stretches across, lush trees fringe the bank, and distant mountains shimmer like dark green. Along Cuiping Lake, numerous famous mountains and ancient temples are nestled. Cuiping Mountain and Fenghuang Mountain, to the south and north, guard the lake's western dam. Cuiping Lake is rich in fish and shrimp, and its golden-winged carp is particularly renowned.
The climate is warm temperate and semi-humid monsoon continental. Yuqiao Reservoir is surrounded by mountains with beautiful scenery. The scenery of lakes and mountains is breathtaking and suitable for travel in all seasons.
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
Free and open
Open all day
Yuqiao Reservoir was built primarily for water supply and flood control, serving the Tianjin area. It also functions as a recreational area, offering an escape into nature for the locals and visitors alike.
Yuqiao Reservoir is located in the southern part of Tianjin, easily accessible by taxi or bus from central Tianjin. Public transport routes are available, and taxis can reach the reservoir in about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
The reservoir is open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and the area is less crowded.
There is no entrance fee for the reservoir itself. However, activities like boat rides may have a fee, which can be paid on-site. Tickets for these activities can be purchased at the reservoir's entrance.
No advance booking is necessary for general entry, but it is advisable to book boat rides in advance during peak seasons to ensure availability.
You can spend about 1-2 hours exploring the reservoir, depending on your interests. If you plan to engage in boating or hiking, you may want to allow extra time.
Guided tours are not generally available, but some local guides may offer informal tours. Audio guides are not typically offered at the reservoir.
Start by walking along the shoreline and enjoy the natural scenery. From there, you can choose to walk the nature trails or take a boat ride to experience the reservoir from the water.
The reservoir is open at night, but it is not known for light shows or special nighttime activities. Evening visits offer a peaceful and quieter experience, ideal for a relaxing walk by the water.
The reservoir is busiest during weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, plan your visit for weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Basic facilities such as public toilets and rest areas are available. There are small food stalls near the entrance, but there are no large shops within the reservoir area.
The reservoir is accessible for elderly visitors and children, with wide paths and benches for resting. However, it may be less accessible for those with severe mobility impairments due to uneven terrain in some areas.
Cash is not required; mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) and credit cards are accepted for purchases at food stalls and activity rentals.
There are a few small local restaurants and food stalls near the reservoir. For more dining options, you can visit restaurants in Tianjin city center.
Vegetarian and vegan food options may be available at nearby eateries, though choices may be limited. Halal food options may also be available in local restaurants outside the reservoir area.
There are no major souvenir shops inside the reservoir. However, you may find local crafts and small souvenirs at nearby markets and streets.
After visiting Yuqiao Reservoir, you can take a taxi, bus, or the metro back to Tianjin city center. There are several transport options for continuing your journey.
