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At Dajiu Lake, enjoy a tranquil boat ride on the lake, explore its beautiful natural surroundings, and take in the mountain views. Hiking around the lake and visiting nearby waterfalls is a popular activity. You can also enjoy birdwatching, as the area is rich in wildlife, and take photographs of the stunning landscape.
Shennongjia Dajiuhu National Wetland Park, known as a "high mountain basin" and "natural grassland," boasts stunning natural scenery and a pleasant climate, earning it the nickname "Xiaojiuhu." The scenic area boasts abundant alpine meadows and wetland ferns, as well as rare animals such as storks, cranes, and sika deer, making it of great scientific interest. Surrounded by high mountains, nine large ridges stretch east and west, each covered in dense forests, creating a majestic scene. Streams flowing down the mountain streams form nine small lakes, giving the area its name.
temperate monsoon climate;
Suitable for travel from April to October
Adult ticket: 140 RMB
Half-price ticket: Children between 1.2-1.4 meters tall and students can purchase tickets at half price
Free of charge: Children under 1.2 meters in height and senior citizens over 70 years old with certificate
08:00-17:00
Dajiu Lake is located in the Shennongjia area, known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. The lake is an important natural site in the region, and it is believed to be a sacred area by the local communities. It is part of the Shennongjia National Nature Reserve, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique ecosystem.
Dajiu Lake is located in Shennongjia, Hubei Province. To get there, take a train or flight to Shennongjia and then use a taxi or private vehicle to reach the lake. The journey involves some walking or hiking to access the main attractions near the lake.
The opening hours are from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is in spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Avoid the winter months, as some areas may be inaccessible due to snow, and summer can be crowded with tourists.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥50 to ¥80. Tickets can be purchased online through the official website or offline at the entrance. You may also find packages that combine entry to Dajiu Lake and other nearby attractions.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (holidays and weekends). 1-2 days in advance should be sufficient, though booking earlier may ensure you get the best available time slots for tours or boat rides.
To fully explore Dajiu Lake, including hiking, taking a boat ride, and visiting nearby waterfalls and viewpoints, you will need around 4-5 hours. If you want to hike longer routes around the lake or spend time photographing, you may need a full day.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and can be booked upon arrival. Audio guides may be available in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides are limited. It’s recommended to book a tour in advance if you need English-speaking assistance.
Start with a boat ride on the lake, then hike around the waterfalls and nearby trails. The most scenic routes include a hike to the mountain viewpoints, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
Night visits are generally not available at Dajiu Lake, as the area is best experienced during the day. Special tours or light shows are not common, but during specific festivals, there may be cultural performances or nighttime events. It’s best to check in advance for such events.
Dajiu Lake can get crowded during national holidays and weekends. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekday mornings during the off-peak seasons (spring or autumn), when the weather is still pleasant but fewer tourists are around.
There are toilets near the lake and along the trails. Food and water can be purchased at the entrance or at nearby small restaurants. Rest areas are available for visitors to relax, and there are a few shops selling local products and souvenirs.
The area around Dajiu Lake involves hiking and uneven terrain, which may be difficult for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. However, children can enjoy the surroundings, though supervision is recommended near the water. For disabled visitors, certain areas may be challenging, but assistance may be available for navigating more accessible routes.
There are several local restaurants near Dajiu Lake serving Chinese cuisine, including noodles, dumplings, and vegetarian dishes. Some restaurants may offer freshwater fish from the lake as well.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, especially in the area surrounding the lake. Halal food may be harder to find, so it’s best to check with restaurants in advance or bring your own supplies if needed.
There are a few guesthouses and hotels in the Shennongjia area, providing convenient access to Dajiu Lake. Shennongjia Resort and nearby eco-lodges are popular choices for those looking to stay near the lake.
There are souvenir shops near the lake selling local handicrafts, Taoist religious items, and traditional textiles. Typical souvenirs include handmade jewelry, bamboo crafts, and local herbs.
To continue your trip, take a taxi or private car to Shennongjia or nearby towns for more sightseeing, or catch a bus or train from Shennongjia for onward travel to other parts of Hubei Province.
