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Songhua Lake offers a variety of activities including boating, fishing, hiking, and cycling around the lake. In the winter, it transforms into a popular ice-skiing and ice-fishing spot. The lake's beautiful scenery is perfect for relaxation and photography, while nearby attractions like the Songhua Lake Scenic Area offer cultural and historical experiences.
Songhua Lake is an artificial lake formed by the construction of the Fengman Hydropower Station in 1937 by blocking the Songhua River. It has a vast water area and numerous lake forks, resembling a dragon.
Songhua Lake Scenic Area has 10 independent scenic areas, divided into the east and west banks by Fengman Dam, and various sanatoriums have been built.
The scenery here is different with each season. In spring, the trees are green and full of vitality. In summer, the trees are shady and the birds are singing and the flowers are fragrant. In autumn, the mountains are covered with red leaves and the forests are dyed with colors. In winter, the mountains are covered with silver and the trees are covered with jade flowers.
Temperate monsoon climate, best for travel in summer
More than 3 hours
Transportation: Take bus No. 33 in the city and get off at Fengman Songhua Lake
30 yuan (including boat ticket)
8:00-17:00
Songhua Lake is a man-made reservoir, built in the 1950s to supply water for industrial and agricultural use. Over time, it has become a significant tourist attraction in Jilin due to its natural beauty, recreational activities, and role in the local ecosystem.
Songhua Lake is located in Jilin City, about 30 km from the city center. You can reach the lake by taxi, private car, or bus. There is no metro service to the lake, but it is easily accessible by road.
Songhua Lake is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the summer (June to August) for outdoor activities like boating and hiking, and during winter (December to February) for ice sports like skiing and ice fishing.
The entrance fee varies depending on the activity. Entry to the general area is free, but specific attractions (like boat rentals or skiing) may require additional fees. Tickets can be purchased at the site or online for certain activities.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended for activities such as boating or skiing, especially during peak seasons. Booking 1-2 days in advance is usually sufficient.
To fully explore Songhua Lake and enjoy activities like boating, hiking, and photography, plan for a visit of 3 to 4 hours. If you're visiting in winter for ice sports, you may want to spend a full day.
The Songhua Lake Scenic Area, the Boating Area, and the Ice Festival (in winter) are must-see highlights. The lake's views of surrounding mountains and the nearby forested areas are also worth exploring.
Guided tours are available, and they are typically offered in Mandarin. English-speaking guides can be arranged in advance for foreign tourists, especially during peak seasons.
The best viewpoints are from the lakeside, particularly around the scenic areas, as well as the elevated spots offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The reflection of the mountains on the water at sunrise or sunset provides excellent photo opportunities.
Start with a walk along the lakeside for scenic views, then explore the Boating Area for water activities. Afterward, hike through the nearby trails or visit the ice sports facilities in winter. End with a visit to the local restaurants or cafes for a relaxing meal.
There are no special night tours or light shows at Songhua Lake, but the area is open for evening walks, and the tranquil setting makes for a peaceful visit. Some resorts and restaurants around the lake may offer evening dining experiences.
Songhua Lake can get crowded during the peak summer months (June to August) and Chinese holidays. Weekdays in the off-season (spring and autumn) are the least crowded times to visit.
There are toilets, food vendors, rest areas, and small shops near the main attractions. The area also has several restaurants offering local dishes and drinks. Drinking water stations are available along the popular routes.
Songhua Lake is accessible for elderly and children, with paved paths and scenic routes. Some areas might be challenging for those with mobility issues, but there are accessible facilities available at the main attractions.
Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted at Songhua Lake, along with credit cards at major facilities. It's still a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases or remote areas.
There are several restaurants and cafes around the Songhua Lake area offering both local cuisine and Western options. Popular choices include lakeside dining spots with scenic views.
While vegetarian and vegan options are available at most restaurants around Songhua Lake, halal food may be more difficult to find. Larger cities like Changchun offer more variety for halal dining.
There are various accommodations near Songhua Lake, including mid-range hotels, resorts, and guesthouses. For more luxurious stays, you can find options in Jilin City, about 30 minutes away by car.
Nearby attractions include the Jilin Rime Island, the Changbai Mountain Nature Reserve, and the Songhua River Scenic Area. All of these places are easily accessible from Songhua Lake and make for great day trips.
Souvenir shops around Songhua Lake offer local handicrafts, souvenirs related to the lake, and regional specialties like Jilin ginseng products. You can also find outdoor gear for skiing or hiking.
After visiting Songhua Lake, taxis or buses can take you to nearby attractions like Jilin City or Changchun. If you plan to explore more remote areas, renting a car might be the best option.
