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Visitors to Jingpo Lake can enjoy boat rides on the lake, hiking around the scenic area, and exploring the beautiful waterfalls, such as the Wangxiang Waterfall. The area is also popular for fishing and photography, particularly during the spring and autumn seasons when the natural beauty is at its peak. Visitors can also explore the nearby Jingpo Lake Waterfall Scenic Area for a more immersive experience.
Jingpo Lake is located in Ning'an City, under the jurisdiction of Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang Province. It was formed by a volcanic eruption ten thousand years ago. It is the largest alpine barrier lake in China and the second largest in the world.
The scenic area is mainly divided into three major areas: the main scenic area of Jingpo Lake, Jingpo Canyon, and the underground forest of the crater. There are many natural attractions such as the "Eight Outer Scenic Spots" along both sides of the lake.
Mr. Di Huanran is the first person to dive into the world's highest waterfall and set a Guinness World Record. Even in the cold winter, he insists on diving into the Diaoshuilou Waterfall every day. Now Di Huanran's wonderful cliff diving performance has become a beautiful landscape in the Diaoshuilou Waterfall Scenic Area of Jingpo Lake.
Jingpo Lake is a famous summer resort. In summer, the Diaoshuilou Waterfall at the north end of Jingpo Lake is full of water and quite spectacular. Walking in the underground forest of the crater can bring you a cool feeling.
Recommended play time: about 1 day
100 yuan/person
Jingpo Lake is a natural lake located in Heilongjiang Province, known for its stunning landscapes and historical significance as a part of the "Manchu Homeland." The lake was formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, and it is now a popular tourist destination for its crystal-clear waters, surrounding forests, and unique geological formations.
Jingpo Lake is located in Mudanjiang City, Heilongjiang Province, China. It is accessible by car or taxi from Mudanjiang (around 40 km away). Visitors can also take a bus to the area from Mudanjiang city center. The lake itself is best explored on foot or by boat.
Jingpo Lake is open year-round, though the best times to visit are from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are most enjoyable. The lake is particularly beautiful during the fall when the surrounding foliage changes color. Winter visitors can enjoy the snow-covered landscape, though some activities may be limited.
The entrance fee for Jingpo Lake varies depending on the activities you choose to participate in, such as boat rides or guided tours. The base entry fee for the scenic area is approximately 80-100 RMB, with additional charges for specific attractions. Tickets can be bought online or on-site at the entrance.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but recommended during peak seasons (summer and public holidays) to avoid long queues. Tickets can be booked online or purchased on-site without much hassle.
It typically takes 3-4 hours to explore the main attractions around Jingpo Lake, including a boat ride, a hike around the lake, and visits to the nearby waterfalls. If you plan to explore the surrounding areas in more detail, you might want to allocate a full day.
Must-see highlights include the beautiful Jingpo Lake itself, the Wangxiang Waterfall, and the scenic boat tours. Don't miss the surrounding forests, which offer excellent hiking opportunities and panoramic views of the lake and waterfalls. The geological features around the lake are also quite unique and interesting to explore.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and can be arranged at the entrance. Some areas may have audio guides, but these are typically in Chinese. It’s advisable to arrange a private tour if you're not fluent in the language for a more detailed experience.
The best photography spots are near the lake itself, particularly around the boat landing areas, where you can capture the reflections of the mountains and trees in the water. The Wangxiang Waterfall also provides excellent photo opportunities, especially during the summer when the water flow is strong. The surrounding forested areas are also great for nature shots.
A recommended itinerary would be to start with a boat ride on the lake, followed by a hike to the Wangxiang Waterfall. Afterward, explore the surrounding forest and relax in one of the rest areas while enjoying the view. If you have time, visit the local shops or enjoy a meal in the area before leaving.
Night visits are not commonly offered at Jingpo Lake, as the main activities revolve around daytime sightseeing and outdoor adventures. However, the lake's beauty at sunrise and sunset is breathtaking. It's advisable to check with local tour operators for any special evening tours or events that might be available.
Jingpo Lake can get crowded during the summer and public holidays, especially weekends. The least crowded times are typically in the early morning or late afternoon on weekdays, particularly in the off-season (spring and autumn).
Facilities at Jingpo Lake include public toilets, rest areas, food stalls, and small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs. There are also a few restaurants offering Chinese cuisine near the entrance. Visitors should bring water and snacks if planning to hike or explore more remote areas.
The main areas around Jingpo Lake, such as the boat ride and nearby trails, are generally accessible for children and elderly visitors. However, some of the more remote areas, such as the waterfall and deeper hiking trails, may require more effort. It is recommended to check accessibility details with local tour providers.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) and credit cards are widely used throughout the area for ticket purchases and shopping. It's advisable to carry both cash and a mobile payment option to ensure convenience.
There are several local restaurants and cafes near the entrance to Jingpo Lake, offering traditional Chinese dishes, such as hotpot, noodles, and rice dishes. For a more casual experience, you can also find small snack stands offering local delicacies.
Vegetarian options are available at many restaurants, with various vegetable-based dishes. Vegan and halal food options may be more limited, so it's recommended to check in advance or speak to the restaurant staff to confirm availability.
There are a few hotels and guesthouses near Jingpo Lake offering basic accommodations. For more upscale options, visitors can stay in Mudanjiang City, where a wider range of hotels, including international chains, are available.
Nearby attractions include the Yuantong Mountain, the Mudanjiang River, and the scenic areas around Changbai Mountain. These can be easily combined in a day trip if you're exploring the Heilongjiang province.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, including wooden carvings, traditional clothing, and handmade jewelry. Local food items such as dried fish and snacks are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting Jingpo Lake, the best options for continuing your trip are to take a bus or taxi back to Mudanjiang City or hire a private car to explore other nearby attractions. For longer distances, you can use local transportation or trains to other parts of Heilongjiang Province.
