The Best Spot to Watch the Sunset and Birds at Taihu Lake

Every autumn and winter, Taihu Lake becomes a paradise for birds! From November 2025 to March the following year, red-billed gulls traveling all the way from Siberia gather in Suzhou’s Taihu Lake to spend the winter. The sight of countless birds flying across the sky will make anyone exclaim, “Absolutely stunning!” Even ordinary people can easily enjoy birdwatching freedom. Check out these spots and tips below to know exactly how to have fun!

🔍 Best Birdwatching Spots at Taihu Lake, Each Offering a Heavenly View

1. Along Taihu No.1 Highway

A dream come true for self-driving enthusiasts! Drive along Taihu No.1 Highway, roll down your car window, and you’ll see red-billed gulls circling over the lake. Every snap you take will be a masterpiece featuring “water birds and the highway in one frame.” When tired, just stop at a viewing platform, sit by the lake, and watch the birds flying back and forth—pure bliss!

2. Taihu Lakeside National Wetland Fishing Port Village

The wetlands are lush with aquatic plants, a natural dining hall for birds. Stroll slowly along the trails in Fishing Port Village, and you’ll see egrets and herons foraging by the water, red-billed gulls “diving” overhead, and if you’re lucky, rare water birds. It’s a great spot to bring kids for some educational fun—two birds with one stone!

3. Chongshanyu Lighthouse (Next to the New Fourth Army Taihu Guerrilla Detachment Memorial Hall)

Lighthouse + flying birds + lake water = 100% photo success! After learning about history at the memorial hall, head to the lighthouse to watch birds. When red-billed gulls swoop over the lighthouse, it feels like stepping into a movie scene.

4. Muke Bookstore & Shibi Yonghui Zen Temple

If you love a blend of culture and nature, don’t miss this! Have a cup of tea at Muke Bookstore and watch birds hopping on branches through the window; Shibi Yonghui Zen Temple is hidden in the forest, where the temple’s tranquility and birds’ joyful calls create a unique atmosphere—perfect for those seeking a quiet place to watch birds.

5. Sanshan Island, Manshan Island, Hengshan Island

These islands are true “bird paradises”! The ecology is excellent, and the birds are not afraid of people, allowing close-up views of adorable red-billed gulls and bar-headed geese. It’s recommended to stay overnight on the islands, as bird activity peaks in the early morning and evening, maximizing your experience!

📌 Essential Tips for Birdwatching Beginners

- Gear: Bring binoculars (if you don’t have any, your phone’s telephoto mode will do), so you can see the birds more clearly when photographing.

- Clothing: Avoid wearing bright colors to prevent scaring the birds away; light-colored casual wear is ideal.

- Timing: It’s best to go between 7-9 AM when the light is soft, birds are more active, and you can avoid crowds.

🍜 Don’t Miss Taihu’s Delicious Food While Birdwatching

This winter, don’t stay cooped up at home! Come to Taihu Lake to see the sky filled with red-billed gulls and fully embrace the “autumn romance” (or rather, winter romance). You can book hotels and rent cars on Trip.com right now—hurry and make your plans, or you’ll have to wait another year!