
Yuncheng Salt Lake is located south of Yuncheng and north of Zhongtiao Mountain. It is one of the world's three largest sodium sulfate inland salt lakes. Its salt content is similar to that of the Middle East's Dead Sea, allowing people to float without sinking, earning it the nickname "China's Dead Sea."
Yuncheng Salt Lake, once home to Jie County and Jie Prefecture, is also known as Jiechi or the "Hedong Salt Lake." It has been renowned for its salt production, known as "Jie Salt," "Lu Salt," or "Hedong Salt." It is an ancient and typical inland saltwater lake. Research indicates that Yuncheng Salt Lake dates back approximately 50 million years, during the Himalayan tectonic movement of the Tertiary Period of the Cenozoic Era.
Yuncheng Salt Lake stretches from northeast to southwest, approximately 30 kilometers long and 3 to 5 kilometers wide. Beyond its Dead Sea-like charm, Yuncheng Salt Lake is a vibrant place. Located at the lowest point of the Yuncheng Basin, it is a typical closed inland lake. Abundant aquatic plants, reeds lining its banks, birdsong and flowers bloom, teeming with life. Furthermore, Yuncheng Salt Lake has a history of over 4,000 years producing "Lu Salt," and numerous cultural attractions have spawned around the lake.
The daily temperature difference is large in spring, with a lot of wind and sand; the winter is cold, the summer is warm, and the autumn climate is mild.
Here you can experience hot spring spa, salt lake floating, salt mist health care, mineral salt therapy and black mud health care, etc.
Recommended play time: 3-4 hours
228 yuan/person
9:00-22:00, latest admission 21:00
Yuncheng Salt Lake is one of the oldest salt production sites in China, with a history spanning over 2,000 years. It is culturally significant for its role in local economy and traditional salt-making techniques.
Located in Yuncheng, Shanxi Province. Visitors can reach the lake by taxi or private car from Yuncheng city center. Local buses also serve the area, and walking is needed for boardwalk exploration.
Open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures and clear skies for photography.
Entrance fees are around 60–80 RMB per adult. Tickets can be purchased at the site entrance or online through official tourism websites.
For weekends and holidays, booking 1–2 days in advance is recommended to ensure availability.
2–3 hours to enjoy the main lake, boardwalks, observation towers, and salt formations.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Limited English-speaking guides may be requested in advance.
Night visits are limited; there are no regular light shows. Special tours may be available during local festivals.
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends and public holidays. Early morning visits are ideal for a quieter experience.
Main areas with boardwalks are suitable for elderly and children. Some sections have uneven surfaces, limiting wheelchair access.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used. Credit cards may be accepted at larger facilities.
Vegetarian options are available; vegan and halal options are limited and may require confirmation in advance.
Yes, souvenirs include salt crystals, bath salts, local handicrafts, and specialty food products from the region.