The Hidden Gem of Northern Guilin's Landscapes

Location: Yixian County, Baoding City, Hebei Province, approximately 150 km from Beijing and 100 km from Xiong'an New Area, with convenient transportation, ideal for short trips around the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region.

Must-Visit Attractions
1. **Laozi Peak**
The highlight of Yishui Lake, featuring a 3,100-meter waterside boardwalk that winds through stunning lake and mountain views. Along the way, you'll encounter 12 scenic spots like "Heaven's Gate Cloud Ladder" and "Crane Call Bridge," perfect for hiking and photography.
2. **Boat Tour on the Lake**
Depart from Jingui Pier or Dam Pier (Jinpo Pier is temporarily closed). Choose between double-decker cruise ships or speedboats (¥80/person). The mirror-like lake reflects the surrounding mountains, creating a Guilin-like scenery.
3. **Taihang Water Town**
A charming ancient-style town just a 30-minute drive from Yishui Lake, offering authentic local snacks and folk culture experiences.
4. **Bagua Terrace & Laojun Cave**
Discover the essence of Yi culture. Laojun Cave is a natural karst cave, great for exploration.
5. **Winter-exclusive Scenery (Dec–Feb)**
The lake glistens with thin ice, and the mountains stand majestically. Don’t miss the steaming Yishui Lake stewed fish and firewood chicken with mushrooms.

Food Recommendations
- **Yishui Lake Stewed Fish**: Tender lake fish served with rustic cornbread in a rich broth.
- **Wild Fish Head with Pancakes**: A signature dish at Xinguo Farmhouse, featuring fragrant fish soup soaked in pancakes.
- **Yixian Fried Cake & Sesame Pancakes**: Crispy, sweet local snacks.
- **Taihang Water Town Delicacies**: Cured meat buns, roujiamo (highly recommended by netizens!), and iron-pot stewed firewood chicken.

Budget Accommodations
1. **Xinguo Farmhouse (near Jingui Pier)**
Nestled by mountains and water, accommodates 70 guests, offers fishing experiences, ~¥100–150/person/night.
2. **Fangfang Farmhouse (near Jinpo Pier)**
Budget-friendly with 18 rooms, ideal for cost-conscious travelers.
3. **Fisherman’s Inn (near Dam Pier)**
Provides fishing services, family rooms from ¥181, with floor heating in winter.
4. **Home Inn Neo (Yandu Ancient Town Branch)**
For those staying in the county, business rooms at ¥179/night, surrounded by night markets and performances.

Transport Guide
- **Self-drive**:
From Beijing/Tianjin/Xiong'an → Jingkun/Lailai Expressway, ~2 hours.
- **Public transport**:
Direct buses from Baoding/Shijiazhuang stations, or take a taxi from Yixian.

Tips
- **Best season**: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather, summer for escaping heat, winter for icy lake views.
- **Tickets**: Peak season (Apr–Oct) ¥60, boat ticket ¥80; off-season ¥40.
- **Note**: Sun protection, winter warmth, and check pier availability in advance.

✨️Yishui Lake combines landscapes, culture, and cuisine, offering fun for family trips, romantic getaways, or friend gatherings! Plan your "Northern Guilin" adventure now!✨️