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Alsophila Spinulosa Lake Scenic Area offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and photographers. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks around the serene lake, explore the lush forested areas, and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The area is also perfect for birdwatching, fishing, and relaxing by the water.
The Alsophila spinulosa Lake Scenic Area, located in Tongxing Township, Jianwei County, Leshan City, is accessible by the Jiayang Railway. The area boasts the world's only functioning narrow-gauge steam engine. The lake offers stunning scenery, including the sight of Alsophila spinulosa trees. The area is home to over 200,000 Alsophila spinulosa trees, considered a living fossil.
Alsophila Lake was formed after a hydroelectric station was built upstream of the Mabian River. The lake is quite wide and has excellent vegetation, with clusters of Alsophila. Due to the high humidity, there are many small creatures, so be sure to prepare plenty of mosquito repellent.
Suitable for all seasons, best in spring and autumn
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
free
All day
Alsophila Spinulosa Lake Scenic Area is a natural wonder known for its unique combination of rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. The area is named after the Alsophila spinulosa ferns that thrive around the lake. It serves as an important ecological reserve and provides a habitat for various wildlife species.
Located in the city of Leshan, Sichuan, the Alsophila Spinulosa Lake Scenic Area can be accessed by taxi from the city center. Public transport options may be limited, so it’s best to hire a taxi or drive directly to the site. The nearest major road and transportation hubs can get you close to the entrance, and walking through the scenic pathways offers a rewarding experience.
The scenic area is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the landscape is at its most vibrant. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds.
The entrance fee is approximately 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the site’s entrance. Online booking options are not typically available, so it's recommended to buy tickets on-site.
Advance booking is not required. It is sufficient to purchase tickets at the entrance on the day of your visit, though it’s a good idea to check for any special events or holidays when the site may be busier.
It typically takes around 2-3 hours to fully explore Alsophila Spinulosa Lake Scenic Area, depending on how much time you spend walking, taking photos, or relaxing by the lake.
The must-see highlights include the peaceful lake surrounded by lush greenery, the forested trails, and the ferns of Alsophila spinulosa that give the area its name. The surrounding mountain views also offer great photo opportunities.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may not always be available, so it’s advisable to check ahead if you need language-specific services.
The best viewpoints are by the lakeside and from the higher trails that offer panoramic views of the lake and surrounding forests. The reflections in the water, especially in the early morning, make for excellent photo opportunities.
Start at the lake area, explore the surrounding forest trails, and then head towards the higher viewpoints for scenic views. A loop around the lake followed by a forest walk is a pleasant and balanced route.
Currently, night visits or light shows are not available at the Alsophila Spinulosa Lake Scenic Area. The site is best enjoyed during daylight hours.
The site can get busy on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are during weekdays in the morning or late afternoon, especially outside peak tourist seasons.
The site offers basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and drinking water stations. However, there are no major restaurants or shops inside the scenic area, so it’s advisable to bring your own snacks and drinks.
The area is generally accessible, but some trails may be steep or uneven, making them difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the site, but supervision is recommended near the lake and on the trails.
Cash is accepted at the entrance, but mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used at most sites in China, including Alsophila Spinulosa Lake Scenic Area.
While there are no restaurants inside the scenic area, several local eateries are available near the entrance or in Leshan city. These restaurants serve traditional Sichuan cuisine.
Vegetarian options are commonly available in nearby restaurants, but halal food may be harder to find. It's advisable to check with restaurants ahead of time for specific dietary preferences.
There are various accommodations available in Leshan, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Staying in the city center provides easy access to both the scenic area and other nearby attractions.
Other nearby attractions include the Leshan Giant Buddha, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Emei Mountain, both of which can easily be combined in a day trip with Alsophila Spinulosa Lake Scenic Area.
There are no souvenir shops within the scenic area, but local shops in Leshan city offer typical Sichuan handicrafts, including tea sets, silk products, and local snacks.
Taxis are the most convenient option for continuing your trip after visiting the scenic area. Alternatively, public buses or trains from Leshan city center can take you to other nearby attractions or transport hubs.
