
Mingyue Lake, formerly known as Pingcun Reservoir, is located in Pingxiang City, Jiangxi Province, upstream of the Nankeng River, a tributary of the Lushui River. It is 27 kilometers from downtown Pingxiang and serves as a medium-sized reservoir for irrigation, power generation, tourism, aquaculture, and urban production and domestic water supply. The reservoir's dam is a 46.5-meter-high stone arch dam with a total capacity of 19.75 million cubic meters.
Mingyue Lake is surrounded by mountains and is closely connected to the bamboo forests of Bailicao. It boasts picturesque scenery, a tranquil and elegant atmosphere. A 38-mu island nestles in the lake, home to a vibrant array of wildflowers, exotic herbs, and dense shrubs. The island's winding mountain paths offer tranquil and secluded charm. Visitors can enjoy a variety of cultural and entertainment facilities, including cold drinks and teahouses.
Drive along the coast straight up to Dayakou, pass through the deep mountains and dense forests, overlook Fulizui, and go around nine turns to reach the forest park, which covers an area of about 130,000 acres. The mountains are all covered with bamboo forests. Looking around, it seems like the sea is rippling with blue waves. Even in the hot summer, you can visit the bamboo sea with thick shade and cool breeze. It is refreshing to appreciate the beauty of nature and increase your knowledge. Visitors are full of praise.
Subtropical humid climate;
The temperature in Mingyue Lake is low, usually 8 to 9 degrees lower than that in the city. You can stop sweating when you go into the mountains. It is a good place to escape the summer heat and recuperate. Mingyue Lake Resort is known as the "Beidaihe" of Pingxiang and is suitable for summer travel.
Mingyue Lake Scenic Area is divided into six major scenic areas: Baizhuan Stream Scenic Area formed by the stream waters upstream of Mingyue Lake; the expansion training scenic area formed by Fengkeng; Tianluo Mountain Scenic Area formed by plant landscape; Taoxixiang Waterfall Scenic Area formed by waterfall landscape; Yezhu Cave Scenic Area formed by historical allusions and legends; and Popoyan Scenic Area with a thousand-acre rhododendron forest.
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Open all day
Mingyue Lake is a natural landmark in Pingxiang, Jiangxi, known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance. It is a popular spot for relaxation and recreation, featuring lakeside temples and historical sites. The area has been an important site for local spiritual practices and is also celebrated for its natural landscapes.
Mingyue Lake is located in Pingxiang, Jiangxi. Visitors can take a taxi or private car from Pingxiang city center, which is about 30 minutes away. Public buses also operate to the lake area, and once there, visitors can walk around the scenic spots.
The lake area is open year-round, with the best times to visit during spring and autumn when the weather is mild. The area is typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, though hours may vary during holidays or special events.
The entrance fee to Mingyue Lake Scenic Area is approximately 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and some online platforms may offer advance reservations, although it's not required.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it may be recommended during peak travel seasons. You can buy tickets on the day of your visit or online a few days before, especially during holidays.
You can explore Mingyue Lake in 2 to 4 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend relaxing by the lake, hiking the trails, or visiting the temples. For a more relaxed experience, plan to spend a half day at the site.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and can be arranged at the entrance. Audio guides may be available for rent during peak seasons to help visitors navigate the scenic area.
The best photography spots include the temple near the lake, where you can capture both the lake and the surrounding hills. The boat ride also provides great photo opportunities of the lake and its natural surroundings.
Start your visit at the lake entrance, taking a boat ride if available. Then, walk along the lakeside trails, stopping at key spots like the temple. Finish your visit with a relaxing time at one of the many scenic viewpoints, possibly enjoying a picnic by the water.
There are no special night visits or light shows at Mingyue Lake, and the area generally closes in the evening. However, the lake area is particularly peaceful in the early morning, making it a great time for a sunrise visit.
The area can get crowded during weekends and holidays. For a quieter experience, visit during weekdays, particularly in the early mornings or late afternoons.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are small shops selling snacks and bottled water. However, it's advisable to bring your own food and water if you plan to spend extended time exploring the lake area.
The area is relatively accessible, with paved walking paths and some flat terrain. However, the boat rides and some trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It is recommended to check accessibility conditions at the entrance for specific needs.
Both cash and mobile payment methods (like Alipay or WeChat Pay) are accepted at Mingyue Lake. Credit cards are not commonly accepted, so it's a good idea to bring cash or use mobile payment apps.
Vegetarian options are available, such as tofu dishes and vegetable stir-fries. Vegan and halal food options are limited, but some local restaurants may offer vegetarian-friendly meals.
Small souvenir shops near the entrance sell items like postcards, traditional Chinese crafts, and items related to the lake's natural beauty, such as wooden carvings and local artwork.
Taxis and local buses are available to take visitors back to Pingxiang city or onward to other nearby attractions. From Pingxiang, you can access trains or buses to other parts of Jiangxi province or beyond.