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Huancai Lake, located in Yiwu County, Hami Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, is a saline-alkali lake whose color changes with the light. On sunny days, the water takes on a mysterious pink hue, while on cloudy and rainy days, it turns black. Located at an altitude of 1,896 meters, Huancai Lake covers less than 30 square kilometers. It is a typical inland evaporation lake with no outlet or inlet, fed by underground springs. From afar, the lake's turquoise waters blend seamlessly with the sky, and the lush grass and chirping birds of prey attract numerous tourists.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Yiwu Salt Lake, 1 hour
free
All day
Colorful Lake is a natural wonder in Hami, known for its vibrant, multi-hued waters that change color depending on the time of day and the angle of the sun. The lake is surrounded by unique geological formations and is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. It is also a popular photography destination due to its striking appearance.
The Colorful Lake is located near Hami city in Xinjiang, China. The easiest way to reach the lake is by taxi or private vehicle, as public transportation options are limited in this remote area. It is approximately a 30-40 minute drive from Hami city center.
The Colorful Lake is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and the lake's colors are most vibrant. It is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
The entrance fee to the Colorful Lake is generally around 20 to 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site. It is recommended to confirm prices and availability with local tour operators or the attraction directly, as prices may vary seasonally.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for individual visitors, but if you are part of a large group or planning a guided tour, it is advisable to book ahead, especially during peak travel seasons.
A visit to the Colorful Lake typically takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you spend walking around, taking photographs, and enjoying the surroundings.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Some English-speaking guides may also be available, but it is best to book in advance if you require an English-speaking guide.
The best viewpoints are along the walking trails that loop around the lake. The lake looks especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset when the lighting enhances the water's colors. The higher viewpoints also offer a great panoramic perspective of the entire area.
Start by visiting the main lake area, then follow the trails that lead to higher viewpoints for stunning panoramic views. Make sure to take your time and enjoy the various angles of the lake, especially during the golden hours of the day.
There are no night visits or light shows available at Colorful Lake. The attraction is best visited during daylight hours to enjoy the natural beauty of the lake and surroundings.
The lake is relatively peaceful and not usually crowded. Weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends, and early mornings are the best time to visit if you prefer quieter surroundings.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available. There are no food or beverage outlets directly at the site, so it is advisable to bring your own water and snacks for the visit. There are no souvenir shops at the lake itself.
The Colorful Lake is accessible to most visitors, but the terrain can be uneven in some areas, making it challenging for those with mobility issues. Elderly visitors and families with young children should take care when walking along the trails.
Cash is generally preferred, although some vendors may accept mobile payments such as WeChat Pay or Alipay. It’s best to carry cash for ticket purchases and small transactions.
There are no restaurants or cafes at Colorful Lake. However, visitors can find dining options in Hami city, where there are a variety of local restaurants offering Xinjiang-style cuisine.
Halal food is widely available in Hami city, reflecting the local Uighur culture. Vegetarian and vegan options can also be found in local restaurants.
There are no souvenir shops directly at Colorful Lake. However, visitors can purchase local handicrafts, textiles, and dried fruits in Hami city markets.
