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Dishui Lake is located in the southeast of Shanghai, about 76 kilometers from the center of Shanghai. It is the central artificial lake of the main urban area of Lingang New City in Pudong, Shanghai. Dishui Lake is the largest artificial lake in China, which was excavated on land reclamation on the beach. Its area is equivalent to that of West Lake in Hangzhou.
The lake is dotted with three distinct islands: North Island, West Island, and South Island. The North Island, known as the "Entertainment Island," is planned to feature an ocean-themed amusement park, including a water world, an oasis, a game tunnel, and the Blue Whale Performing Arts Center. West Island is designed as a business and tourist accommodation area, with plans to house two high-star hotels, the hallmarks of Lingang New City. South Island is a water-based leisure and entertainment island, featuring a yacht club and a yacht harbor, creating a water sports and leisure center capable of hosting large-scale international water sports events and providing fitness and entertainment.
The weather is suitable for all seasons, and the nearby farm delicacies and fruits are most abundant in summer and autumn.
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
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All day
Dripping Lake is known for its natural beauty and is a popular spot for relaxation and outdoor activities in Shanghai. It is a peaceful oasis in the city, providing an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The lake is also appreciated for its role in local ecology, providing a habitat for various species of flora and fauna.
Dripping Lake is located in the outskirts of Shanghai, surrounded by nature reserves. The easiest way to reach it is by taxi or private car. Public buses also serve the area, but metro access might require a transfer at a central station. Walking from nearby areas can be enjoyable, but it's a bit far from the main city center.
Dripping Lake is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. Morning and late afternoon visits offer the most scenic views, especially during sunrise or sunset when the lake looks especially beautiful.
There is a small entrance fee to Dripping Lake, usually around ¥30-¥50. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or in advance through the official website or local tourism platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is optional but recommended during peak seasons (spring and fall) or on weekends to avoid long lines. You can book tickets online a few days before your visit.
Exploring the entire area around Dripping Lake, including a boat ride, hiking trails, and relaxation time by the water, typically takes about 3-4 hours.
Guided tours are available, particularly during peak seasons. These are typically offered in Mandarin, but some English-speaking guides may be available if requested in advance.
Start your visit by exploring the lakeside, followed by a boat ride to experience the calmness of the water. Then, hike the trails that loop around the lake for some stunning aerial views, before relaxing in one of the designated rest areas.
Night visits are allowed, but the lake itself is not typically illuminated. It is a quiet, serene environment perfect for a peaceful evening walk. No light shows are available, but some special tours may be arranged for groups during the summer months.
Dripping Lake can be crowded on weekends and public holidays. Weekdays, especially in the mornings, are generally the least crowded times to visit, offering a more peaceful experience.
The lake area has basic facilities such as toilets, a few small food stalls offering snacks and drinks, and rest areas along the walking trails. There are no major shops within the lake area, so it’s recommended to bring your own water and snacks if planning a longer visit.
The paths around Dripping Lake are generally accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, though some of the trails may be uneven. Strollers for children can be used along the main paths, but some of the more rugged hiking trails may be less suitable for young children.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted at the entrance and for most services at the lake. It's always handy to carry cash, especially for small vendors.
Vegetarian and vegan options can be found at some of the local eateries around Dripping Lake. Halal food options are available in a few restaurants in the area, particularly near major tourist hubs in Shanghai.
Souvenir shops around Dripping Lake offer local handicrafts, including traditional Chinese tea sets, art prints of the lake, and locally made jewelry. However, these shops are quite small.
