Yudai Lake is a scenic spot where visitors can enjoy boat rides, hike around the lake, or simply relax by the water's edge. The area is popular for bird watching, especially during migration seasons. Additionally, it’s a great place for picnics, photography, and enjoying the serene natural surroundings. There are also opportunities to learn about the local ecology and wildlife.

Many people have visited Chengdu's Luodai Ancient Town, but perhaps few are aware of the nearby Yudai Lake. Luodai Lake, with a water storage capacity of 1.2 million cubic meters, is surrounded by flowers and fruits year-round, offering a tranquil environment and fresh air. Boat rides are available, making it a perfect spot for relaxation.
Yudai Lake is surrounded by mountains, and its steep slopes are lush with vegetation, including evergreen cypresses and tulip trees with dense canopies. The scenery is beautiful all year round. Early spring is a real treat, with dazzling yellow rapeseed, plum blossoms as white as snow, and peach blossoms as bright as clouds. Farmhouses nestled among bamboo groves offer a tranquil and secluded charm.
Subtropical monsoon humid climate;
Best time to visit in spring and autumn
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours
free
All day
Yudai Lake is an important ecological area in Chengdu, known for its rich biodiversity. The lake is home to various species of birds, making it a key spot for bird watchers. The area also plays a role in water conservation for the surrounding agricultural lands. While it’s not as historically significant as some other sites, its natural beauty and ecological importance make it a popular destination for nature lovers.
Yudai Lake is located in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, about 20 kilometers from the city center. The most convenient way to reach the lake is by taxi or private car. Public buses also service the area, though it may require transfers. It is not directly accessible by metro, so taking a taxi or bus is the best option.
The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is mild. Early morning or late afternoon are the least crowded times, providing a peaceful experience and better conditions for photography.
The entrance fee for Yudai Lake is generally around 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. Some local travel agencies may also offer online ticket purchasing options for convenience.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary for individual visitors, but it’s a good idea to book ahead if visiting during peak seasons, such as holidays or weekends. Booking a few days in advance should suffice for group tours.
To fully explore Yudai Lake, including a boat ride, walking trails, and bird watching, you will need around 2-3 hours. If you plan to relax and take your time, you might want to allocate a little more time for leisurely activities.
The must-see highlights of Yudai Lake include the serene water views, the bird-watching areas, and the surrounding natural landscape. The area near the lake where boats are available offers the best views, and the lakeside walking paths are perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Guided tours are available, primarily in Mandarin, but some tours might offer basic English explanations. Audio guides are not typically available, but it’s worth checking with the local staff about language options or arranging a guide in advance if necessary.
Some of the best photography spots are along the lakeside trails, where you can capture reflections on the water, local wildlife, and the surrounding greenery. The boat ride offers a unique perspective of the lake and its landscape, providing great opportunities for photos.
Start by walking around the lakeside trails to explore the area and enjoy the scenery. Afterward, take a boat ride around the lake for a different view of the surroundings. Finish with a visit to the bird-watching zones, especially during migration season, to observe various species of birds.
Currently, night visits and light shows are not available at Yudai Lake. The attraction is primarily a daytime destination. However, it’s possible that seasonal events or special tours may be organized, so it’s worth checking with the park for any updates.
The lake can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit during weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Spring and autumn offer the best weather and fewer visitors.
Basic facilities, including toilets, rest areas, and drinking water stations, are available at the park. There are small kiosks selling snacks and drinks, but it’s recommended to bring your own supplies if you plan to stay for an extended period, as food options may be limited.
The park is generally accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with paved paths around the lake and rest areas. However, some parts of the walking trails may be difficult for people with mobility issues. It’s advisable to check with the park staff for accessibility details.
Mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted in the park, and cards are also commonly accepted. Cash is still accepted, but it’s recommended to use mobile payments for convenience.
There are a few small local restaurants and cafes near the park, serving Sichuan cuisine and snacks. For a wider variety of dining options, visitors can head to Chengdu city, which offers plenty of restaurants, including international options.
There are vegetarian and vegan food options available in nearby Chengdu city, where many restaurants offer Sichuan vegetarian dishes. Halal options may be more limited but can be found in Chengdu’s Muslim district.
There are a few hotels near the park, including mid-range hotels and guesthouses. For more extensive accommodation options, visitors can stay in Chengdu city, where there are luxury hotels, budget options, and guesthouses available.
Nearby attractions include Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Ancient Street in Chengdu. Visitors can also explore Sichuan’s famous giant panda reserves, which are a short drive away from Yudai Lake, making it easy to combine a day trip with a visit to multiple sites.
There are small souvenir shops near the lake selling local crafts, postcards, and nature-related items such as bird-watching guides. Visitors can also purchase local snacks as souvenirs. More shopping options are available in Chengdu city.
After visiting Yudai Lake, the best way to continue the trip is by taking a taxi or private car back to Chengdu city. Alternatively, public buses can be used to reach other parts of the city or nearby attractions.