Yangtian Lake

Introducing Yangtian Lake

Yangtian Lake, a dormant volcanic crater from the Quaternary glacial period, boasts a natural watershed covering over 20 mu (approximately 26 acres) and sits at an altitude of 1,350 meters. It stands as a dazzling pearl suspended at the intersection of the Yangtze and Pearl River watersheds and the Beijing-Zhuhai Expressway. It has been hailed by freelance traveler and writer as "a teardrop on the earth (at the source of the Beijiang River)."

The Yangtian Lake Grassland Scenic Tourist Area is located in the heart of the Qitianling Mountain Range at the northern foot of the Nanling Mountains (approximately 30 kilometers southwest of Chenzhou, Hunan Province). It encompasses the approximately 40-square-kilometer scenic area, forming a golden triangle, encompassing the Yangtian Giant Buddha, Tianhu Grassland, and Anyuan Stone Forest. Surrounding Yangtian Lake is lush subprimitive forest, forming a natural barrier that transforms the pasture into a secluded paradise. Within a 15-kilometer radius, it encompasses not only the world-renowned Yangtian Giant Buddha and Yangtian Lake, the closest grassland wetland to Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao, but also the diverse and breathtaking Anyuan Stone Forest and the Pingtou Mountain Village, shrouded in clouds and a shroud of timeless beauty. It also encompasses ten major scenic attractions, including the Ten Miles of Rhododendrons, the Sea of ​​Fog and Heavy Fields, the High Mountain Sunrise Viewing, the Clear Snow and Cloud Farming, the Tongtian Cave Gorge, and the Dripping Dai Waterfall.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Best in summer and autumn

Tickets

50 yuan

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Yangtian Lake

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Yangtian Lake Prairie Scenic Area lies in Beihu District, Chenzhou, Hunan. It covers about 40 km² at ~1,314 m elevation. It’s regarded as the southernmost alpine grassland in China, and Yangtian Lake is a volcanic crater lake from the Quaternary era.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Located in Beihu District, Chenzhou City, Hunan Province, in Yangtian Lake / Yangtian Lake Yao Ethnic Township.
• From Chenzhou, you may take the 832 tourist bus (first at ~6:30 AM) toward Yangtian Lake; drive or chartered vehicle is common since direct regular transit is limited.
• Inside the area, walking, trails, grassland paths, boardwalks and small paths connect to viewpoints and the lake.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Official sources say it is open year-round; typical visiting window is 9:00 to 17:00 in many grassland promotions.
• Best seasons:  
  • Spring–summer: lush green, wildflowers, comfortable temperature.  
  • Autumn: golden grass, clear skies.  
  • In winter, snow or frost may also create a special landscape.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The ticket is reportedly RMB 108 per person for Yangtian Lake Prairie Scenic Area. Tickets can be purchased online (e.g. via Trip.com) or on site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is recommended to book one day in advance during peak seasons to avoid queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A typical visit of half a day (3–5 hours) covers grassland, lake, and key viewing points. Staying overnight allows capturing sunrise, sunset, mist and deeper scenic beauty.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Yangtian Lake (crater lake in the grassland core)
• High grassland ridges and windmills on the ridge line
• The “Yangtian Giant Buddha” stone cliff (massive face carved / natural shape) on grassland edge
• Themed installations, Hobbit houses, grassland cafés and photo installations.
• Grassland camping / tent zones / night-scenery areas.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

No clear mention of audio guides or foreign language tours in available sources. Local guided services in Mandarin likely available. (Not explicitly cited)

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• From ridge lines overlooking the lake and vast grassland, especially at sunrise or golden hour.
• Windmills along the ridge silhouetted against sky.
• Lake edge for water reflections of sky and surrounding mountains.
• Installations like Hobbit houses, themed cafés for creative photo backdrops.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start from entrance → ascend to ridge / viewpoint → proceed across grassland toward Yangtian Lake → walk lakeside → visit windmill ridge and installations → return through alternate path → rest or stay overnight for sunset / sunrise.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are feasible in terms of staying overnight (camping), but no regular light shows or nighttime guided tours are prominently advertised.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

It is quite popular in summer, holidays, and weekends. To avoid crowds, go on weekdays, early morning or off-peak seasons.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Parking and entrance facilities, restrooms, basic visitor center.
• Themed dining cars, grassland cafés, picnic / snack spots.
• Camping and tent zones for overnight stays.
• Guesthouse / homestay accommodations near the lake.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

• Main grassland paths and plateau may be gentle and manageable for many elderly and children, depending on fitness. (Inferred)
• Steeper sections, ridges, or installations might be harder for persons with mobility limitations. (Inferred)

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Major ticketing platforms allow mobile payments (WeChat, Alipay). Smaller cafés or stalls may accept cash; advisable to carry some.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Inside the scenic area, themed dining cars and grassland cafés supply refreshments. Homestays and nearby village eateries serve local Hunan / Yao cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options (vegetable dishes, rice, soups) are generally available at guesthouses and cafés. Vegan or halal choices may be limited—check locally. (Not explicitly cited)

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Yangtian Lake Yunjian Homestay near Caikou Village near lake.
• Various grassland camps, tent camps, boutique guesthouses in area.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Other Chenzhou scenic spots such as Dongjiang Lake (east of Chenzhou) are nearby.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell grassland-themed items, local handicrafts, postcards, and local agricultural products. (Typical practice in scenic areas; not explicitly cited)

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Return by the same bus or two-way transfer to Chenzhou city.
• Drive or charter vehicle onward to other destinations in Hunan or neighboring provinces. (Inferred)