Baofeng Lake:A Journey to a"World-Class Lake Classic"—Where High Gorges Give Rise to a Tranquil Lake

Damming the Gorge to Form a Lake—A Human Miracle Amidst High Gorges and Calm Waters

The story of Baofeng Lake is not merely a divine gift;rather,it is the result of a collective effort—a synergy between the natural landscape and the human spirit.In the 1970s,the rhythmic thud of ramming tools echoed through the valleys of Suoxiyu.Diligent locals constructed a massive dam,channeling mountain springs and rainwater into a single basin.This feat not only resolved the region's chronic issues of drought and flooding but also inadvertently created a spectacular natural wonder:a tranquil,mirror-like lake nestled deep within towering gorges.However,in the early 1980s,the site we now know as Baofeng Lake went by a much more humble name:the"Shijiayu Reservoir."One morning in 1984,Li Jiumin—a recent high school graduate—clutched a crumpled contract in his hand and turned to two of his neighbors,declaring:"Let's take a gamble!These mountains and waters just might be able to attract visitors!"The trio launched a small wooden boat and stationed themselves by the water's edge,pioneering a simple"one person,one oar,one boat"model of hospitality.Their shouted call—"Boat rides:two dimes!"—became the very first line in the brand story of Baofeng Lake.Initially,intrepid backpackers would trek along rugged mountain paths solely to catch a glimpse of this hidden gem—a lake of exquisite beauty tucked away in the secluded depths of the mountains.As the stream of visitors grew,their humble thatched huts were replaced by proper waiting pavilions,and their simple wooden rowboats were upgraded to sturdier metal vessels.

A Path to the World—From the Depths of Western Hunan to the Global Stage

The destiny of Baofeng Lake underwent a historic turning point in 1988,following the establishment of Zhangjiajie City specifically for tourism development.The government incorporated the site into its tourism development plan;geological study trails and eco-tourism piers were constructed in succession,and the site—once a humble reception point—gradually evolved into a comprehensive scenic area.In 1992,Baofeng Lake—along with the Wulingyuan Scenic Area—was inscribed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.In their report,UN experts lauded the site,describing it as a place where"extraordinary peaks encircle the lakeside,lush green ridges abound,and the shimmering lake waters reflect the scenery in a spectacle of breathtaking beauty."In 2004,it was designated a UNESCO Global Geopark,with its annual visitor count surpassing 500,000.In 2007,Baofeng Lake—once again alongside Wulingyuan—was elevated to the status of a National 5A-level Scenic Area,completing a magnificent transformation from a remote mountain water conservancy project into a"World-Class Classic Lake."Today,Li Jiumin—now nearing his sixties—still maintains his daily ritual of visiting the pier at dawn to run his hands along the gunwales of the boats.The calluses on his palms bear silent witness to the monumental transformation of this landscape—from a state of utter obscurity to one of worldwide renown.

>Dive Deeper:Explore More of Zhangjiajie’s Geological Wonders.<<[Huanglong Cave]

Nature’s Masterpiece—An Azure Gem Embraced by Verdant Mountains

The natural landscape of Baofeng Lake is an eternal variation on the themes of water,peaks,and light.

"A Lake of Green Water,Half a Lake of Reflections":The Quintessential Microcosm of Zhangjiajie

If the soul of Zhangjiajie resides in its"three thousand extraordinary peaks,"then Baofeng Lake serves as the azure platter that encapsulates that very soul.The lake stretches approximately 2.5 kilometers in length and reaches a maximum depth of 72 meters;fed by a confluence of rainwater,mountain springs,and subterranean streams,it embodies the very essence of Zhangjiajie’s unique geological formations.The lake’s crystal-clear waters mirror the surrounding mountains—the water appears greener thanks to the mountains,while the mountains,in turn,appear even more verdant thanks to the water.The lake water is as emerald-green as jade,so crystal-clear that it serves as a perfect mirror;cradled within a ring of mountains,it exudes an exceptional sense of tranquility and serenity.As visitors tour the lake by boat,they witness the mountain peaks casting flawless reflections upon the clear,green waters.The mountains derive their elegance from the water,while the water gains its spirit from the mountains;with half the lake a sheet of green water and the other half a canvas of reflections,it appears—from every conceivable angle—as a breathtakingly beautiful traditional Chinese landscape painting.

Sheer Cliffs,Cascading Waterfalls,and the"Thread of Sky"Canyon:Nature's Masterpieces

The Baofeng Waterfall—evoking the poetic imagery of"a torrent plunging three thousand feet"—stands as one of the scenic area's most visually striking natural wonders.During the high-water season,the falls cascade down from a cliff approximately one hundred meters high,sending up a fine mist that shrouds the surroundings in an ethereal,fairyland-like atmosphere.The production crew for the CCTV seriesJourney to the Westscoured the entire country in search of a location to represent the legendary"Water Curtain Cave";they were ultimately captivated by the unique peaks and waterfalls found here.Nestled between towering cliffs tens of meters high,the cascading water and swirling mist perfectly embodied the mystical sanctuary of the"Water Curtain Cave."Thanks to the enduring popularity of the television series,Baofeng Lake has come to be regarded by an entire generation as the quintessential embodiment of a"celestial landscape."Furthermore,visitors can venture through the"Thread of Sky"Canyon,a narrow gorge where towering stone walls press in on both sides,offering a visceral sense of nature's ruggedness and profound depth.With sheer cliffs facing one another across the chasm—revealing only a slender ribbon of sky overhead—walking through this canyon feels akin to stepping back into the primordial era when heaven and earth first came into being.

>Photography Tips:The scenic area features a 2,000-meter lakeside boardwalk that offers beautiful scenery with fewer crowds.At the"Thread of Sky"observation deck,you can capture perfect reflections of the mountains and water when the lake's surface is calm.For the Baofeng Waterfall,it is recommended to visit during the high-water season;on sunny afternoons,you stand a good chance of spotting a rainbow.The bow of the tour boat offers the most photogenic vantage point on the entire lake;consider wearing clothing in shades of white,red,or blue to create a vivid contrast against the emerald waters and lush green mountains.

Cultural Ingenuity:The Revival of Intangible Cultural Heritage—Folk Song Duets and Cormorant Fishing

The cultural attractions at Baofeng Lake serve as a concentrated showcase of the profound charm inherent in Tujia ethnic culture and its rich intangible cultural heritage.Mountain Song Duets:The Soulful Voices That"Bring the Landscape to Life"

Amidst a multitude of towering peaks and shimmering lakes,what truly allows Baofeng Lake to stand out—and draws countless visitors from home and abroad back time and again—is its secret code for"bringing the landscape to life":a form of Intangible Cultural Heritage that has flowed through the region for a thousand years.If the quartz sandstone peaks,formed 380 million years ago,represent the"bones"of Baofeng Lake,then the mountain songs that have flowed for a millennium constitute its very"soul."As you glide across the lake in a boat,Tujia folk singers—clad in the resplendent traditional attire known asXilankapu—lift their voices in song.The soaring intensity ofThe Stick Striking the Rockand the lyrical grace ofCold Water Brews a Slow,Strong Tearipple across the water's surface,echoing and winding around the surrounding peaks.When the spirit moves them,the singers will even"take on apprentices"on the spot;visitors join in to learnThe Four Seasons of Blooming Flowers,and whenever two tour boats cross paths,an impromptu singing contest erupts—filling the lake with laughter and song that linger long in the air.

Cormorant Fishing:A Thousand-Year-Old Art of the Catch

In the early morning light,Baofeng Lake resembles a living,flowing masterpiece of ancient art.An elderly fisherman—his head crowned with a bamboo hat and his shoulders draped in a straw rain cape—lets out a long,resonant cry.Like arrows released from a bowstring,the cormorants plunge headfirst into the water;the instant their sharp beaks pierce the surface,they seem to shatter time itself into shimmering fragments of silver.This thousand-year-old fishing technique breathes life into the scene described by the Northern Song Dynasty scholar Sima Guang—"gracefully descending from the forest's edge,undaunted by the fierce winds and turbulent currents"—making it an unmissable Intangible Cultural Heritage performance at Baofeng Lake.

Baofeng Zen Temple:Serene Spiritual Practice in the Deep Mountains

The ancient temple nestled deep within the mountains surrounding Baofeng Lake is also well worth a visit.Shrouded within the dense forest canopy,the temple's ancient architecture and the resonant chants of Buddhist scripture lend an air of Zen tranquility to this"Celestial Jade Pool on Earth."During traditional festivals,the prayer and blessing ceremonies held at Baofeng Zen Temple invariably attract a multitude of visitors,adding a layer of spiritual solace and enrichment to their journey.

Five Must-Do Activities:Unlocking the Best of Baofeng Lake

1.Scenic Boat Tour on the Calm Waters:Admire the breathtaking beauty of this"Celestial Jade Pool on Earth."

Key Highlight:This is the absolute essence of the Baofeng Lake experience!It is not to be missed.Experience:Board a scenic cruise boat and glide through the shimmering emerald waters,weaving your way between lush green mountains.This lake journey—lasting approximately 40 to 50 minutes—is the quintessential experience of the entire scenic area.Along the route,you will encounter the"Fairies Gazing into the Mirror"formation—a cluster of rocks resembling a group of graceful,standing celestial maidens.You will also pass three small islets in the lake,collectively known as"Mandarin Duck Island,"which serve as the backdrop for many of the scenic area's promotional photographs.

Strategy:The bow of the boat offers the absolute best vantage point for photography;try to secure this prime spot as soon as you board.

2.Participate in a Tujia Folk Song Duet—Become a"Singer on the Water"

Experience:As the cruise boat reaches the center of the lake,Tujia folk singers—clad in traditional ethnic attire—will actively invite passengers to join them in a call-and-response duet.Even if you are completely tone-deaf,there is no need to be shy;simply pick up where the singer left off and sing your own line in response.The impromptu singing contest that erupts when two boats cross paths is arguably the most joyful moment of the entire lake excursion.As one visitor aptly remarked:"Here,the mountains sing,and the waters tell stories."

3.Visit the Baofeng Waterfall—Discover the Secret Realm of the"Water Curtain Cave"fromJourney to the West

Experience:Pause before the waterfall to immerse yourself in the raw power of nature—feeling the cool mist on your face and hearing the thunderous roar of the cascading water.This site served as a filming location for the CCTV adaptation ofJourney to the West;standing beneath the falls,amidst the splashing spray,you can easily visualize that iconic scene where the Monkey King bursts through the"Water Curtain Cave."The scenic area features designated viewing platforms offering the best perspectives of the falls,which are particularly spectacular during the high-water season.

4.Ascend Eagle's Nest Fortress for Panoramic Views—Explore the"Thread of Sky"Canyon

Experience:Climb the towering Eagle's Nest Fortress(Yingwozhai),which rises majestically from the lakeshore toward the clouds.From this lofty perch,a sweeping panoramic view unfolds before you,revealing Baofeng Lake—resembling a delicate piece of jade—nestled amidst the rugged mountains and dense forests.A moderate 30-minute hike brings you to the summit,where the entire breathtaking tableau of"Zhangjiajie on the Water"lies spread out beneath your gaze.

5.SavorTujia Sanxiaguoand Western Hunan Cured Meat:A Culinary Journey in Wulingyuan

Must-Try Delicacies:Sanxiaguo(Three-Ingredient Pot)is Zhangjiajie’s most iconic dish.You select any three ingredients—such as pork intestines,pork tripe,or mutton—to be stewed in a dry pot.As the broth slowly reduces,the ingredients absorb the flavors,becoming more aromatic and delicious the longer they cook.Western Hunan cured meat(Xiangxi Larou)is prepared using traditional smoking methods;its rich aroma makes it the perfect accompaniment for both rice and spirits.Additionally,Haozi Baba(Mugwort Cakes)and Western HunanCiba(Glutinous Rice Cakes)are specialty snacks you simply cannot miss.

Recommended Locations:Xibu Street Food District in Wulingyuan Town,and restaurants located near the"Symbol Gate"(Biaozhimen).

Suggested Itinerary

Half-Day"High Gorges and Calm Lake"Highlights Tour(Ideal for those with limited time):

Arrive at Baofeng Lake Scenic Area at 9:00 AM→Board the scenic area's eco-bus to ascend the mountain(10 minutes)→Board a boat at the pier to begin the lake cruise(approx.40–50 minutes;highlights include lake landmarks such as"Fairy Mirror,""Baofeng Goddess,"and"Mandarin Duck Island,"as well as participating in interactive folk song duets)→Disembark and explore the"One-Line Sky"Gorge,experiencing this natural wonder amidst towering,opposing cliffs(30 minutes)→Walk or take a vehicle to the Baofeng Waterfall to visit the"Water Curtain Cave"—a secret spot made famous by the TV seriesJourney to the West(20 minutes)→Tour concludes around 12:00 PM.

IntoTravelChina Tip:The entrance ticket already includes the boat fare,so no additional ticket purchase is required.We recommend visiting in the morning,as the lighting and ambient temperature are most pleasant during this time.Temperatures on the lake tend to be cooler,so we suggest bringing a light jacket if visiting during the summer months."Wulingyuan Highlights"One-Day Tour(Recommended Pairing:Huanglong Cave):

Morning(9:00–12:00):In-depth exploration of Baofeng Lake(following the"Highlights Route"—2.5 to 3 hours)→Take a boat ride to enjoy traditional folk song duets,and visit the iconic Flying Waterfall and"A Thread of Sky"Gorge.

Lunch(12:00–13:30):Savor the local Tujia specialty,Sanxiaguo(Three-Pot Stew),in the Wulingyuan town center.

Afternoon(13:30–17:00):Transfer to Huanglong Cave(approx.15-minute drive)→Explore the"World Champion of Karst Caves,"cruise along the underground river,and marvel at the"Sea-Calming Needle"stalagmite.

IntoTravelChina Advantage:We can book the perfect accommodation to suit your needs,seamlessly coordinate all your activities,and provide you with detailed tour maps and safety guidelines.

>Professional Guides:IntoTravelChina offers fully customized itineraries—including a dedicated private guide,transportation,and activity arrangements—ensuring a worry-free and immersive travel experience.>> [Consult for Customization Now]

How to Get There:Easy Access to the Wulingyuan Core Area

Baofeng Lake is situated at the eastern edge of the Wulingyuan core scenic area.Located just 1.5 kilometers from the Wulingyuan town center,it boasts extremely convenient transportation links.

By Air:Fly into Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport,then transfer to a dedicated tourist shuttle or taxi to reach the Wulingyuan town center(approx.40 minutes),followed by a final transfer to Baofeng Lake.

By High-Speed​​Rail:Take a high-speed train to Zhangjiajie West Station.Upon exiting the station,transfer to a dedicated tourist shuttle bound for the Wulingyuan Bus Station,then take a taxi or local bus to Baofeng Lake.

By Local Bus:From the Wulingyuan town center,take Bus Route 2 directly to Baofeng Lake;the fare is 2 RMB.

By Taxi:A taxi ride from the Wulingyuan town center takes approximately 10 minutes.

By Car(Self-Driving):Set your GPS navigation to"Baofeng Lake Scenic Area."Route via the Zhanghua Expressway,take the Yanghe Exit,and proceed through the Wulingyuan town center to reach the scenic area.Parking facilities are available on-site.

Scenic Area Entrance:The scenic area is located in Hekou Village,Suoxiyu Town,Wulingyuan District.The entrance serves as the designated boarding point for the eco-friendly shuttle buses.

Important Return Trip Reminder:Sightseeing at Baofeng Lake typically concludes between 16:00 and 17:00.Please allow ample time for your return journey to Zhangjiajie City or the train station.If you have extra time,consider combining your visit with a trip to the Yellow Dragon Cave(Huanglong Cave)or Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.

Best Time to Visit

Baofeng Lake offers beautiful scenery throughout all four seasons;however,April,May,August,and September feature the most pleasant weather,making them the prime seasons to experience the lake's most exquisite landscapes and waterscapes.

Spring(March–May):Wildflowers are in full bloom,and fresh greenery emerges everywhere.The peak forests lining the lakeshore are awash in vibrant emerald hues,while the lake water remains crystal-clear—resembling jade—making this the ideal time to admire the stunning reflections of the mountains and sky on the water's surface.Visitor numbers are relatively low during this period,ensuring a relaxed and unhurried sightseeing experience.

Summer(June–August):The landscape is lush with greenery,and water levels are at their peak.The Baofeng Waterfall cascades down with its most majestic power,and the traditional mountain folk-song performances are at their most lively.As August coincides with the summer school holidays,visitor numbers tend to be higher;therefore,it is recommended to plan your visit during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds.Autumn(September–November):With clear skies,crisp air,and a rich palette of colors—where the vibrant foliage-clad forests contrast sharply with the emerald-green lake waters—this is the golden season for photography enthusiasts.The periods of September and mid-November offer the absolute best windows for photography.

Winter(December–February):With fewer visitors,you can enjoy the tranquility of Baofeng Lake in solitude and occasionally encounter the spectacular natural phenomenon of ice formations adorning Eagle's Nest Village and the"One-Line Sky"gorge.

Best Daily Timings:From 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM,the lighting is soft,the lake surface is calm,and the reflections of the surrounding mountains are at their clearest.On non-rainy days,the scenic area is open from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM(Summer Hours)and 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM(Winter Hours).

Tickets and Opening Hours

Ticket Prices:Adult tickets are approximately 110 RMB per person(inclusive of the boat ride).Students presenting a valid student ID are eligible for a 50%discount.Children and seniors are also eligible for a 50%discount upon presentation of valid identification.

Opening Hours:7:00 AM–6:00 PM(April–November);7:30 AM–5:00 PM(November–March).

Discount Tip:You can log in to the scenic area's official mini-program to book tickets in advance;this grants you access to a priority lane,significantly reducing your waiting time in line at the entrance.

Recommended Visit Duration:Allow 2.5 to 3 hours to thoroughly explore the core attractions.

Accommodation Options

Wulingyuan Town(Highly Recommended):Situated between Baofeng Lake and the Wujiayu Entrance of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park,the town is just 1.5 kilometers from Baofeng Lake.This location offers exceptional convenience for combining your visit with trips to the Yellow Dragon Cave and Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.Accommodation options are incredibly diverse,ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to high-end resort hotels.We recommend staying at well-known local hotels or boutique guesthouses,with prices typically ranging from 200 to 600 RMB per night.

Baofeng Lake Hotel:The scenic area's official hotel,situated right by the lakeside,features a distinctive architectural style rich in the cultural heritage of the Tujia ethnic group.It offers over 200 beds across various room types—including standard rooms,deluxe rooms,and suites—making it an ideal venue for leisure retreats,academic research trips,and conferences.Zhangjiajie City Center:Offers a wider variety of dining options and is ideal for travelers planning to visit Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park the following day.

IntoTravelChina Accommodation Booking Recommendations:

We strongly recommend planning your itinerary and booking your accommodation 1–2 months in advance—especially during the summer holidays(July–August)and the National Day holiday.High-quality hotels in the Wulingyuan district and unique guesthouses located within the scenic areas are often in high demand.Booking through us not only provides access to real-time room availability but also allows for a bundled itinerary—combining accommodation,entrance tickets,and transportation—often resulting in package discounts and ensuring a seamless travel experience.Simply tell us your budget and requirements,and we will match you with the perfect"Wulingyuan Retreat"for your stay.>>[Click to contact IntoTravelChina Travel Consultant]

Baofeng Lake is by no means the end of your journey;rather,it serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the"Forest Peak Wonderland"of Zhangjiajie.

Classic 3-Day Wulingyuan Loop:Day 1—Baofeng Lake(Lake Cruise+Folk Song Duets+Baofeng Waterfall)→Yellow Dragon Cave(Underground River Exploration+The"Sea-Calming Needle"Pillar);Day 2—Zhangjiajie National Forest Park(Yuanjiajie+Tianzi Mountain+Golden Whip Stream);Day 3—Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park(Glass Skywalk+Tianmen Cave).This is a comprehensive,classic route that seamlessly blends stunning waterscapes,karst caves,and towering forest peaks.

Zhangjiajie Panoramic 3-Day Tour:Baofeng Lake→Zhangjiajie National Forest Park(Bailong Elevator+"Avatar Hallelujah Mountain")→Tianmen Mountain Glass Skywalk.This route connects Zhangjiajie's most iconic natural wonders via the most convenient and efficient travel path.

Western Hunan(Xiangxi)Grand 5-Day Loop:Zhangjiajie National Forest Park→Baofeng Lake→Furong Ancient Town(A thousand-year-old town perched atop a waterfall)→Fenghuang Ancient Town(Widely regarded as China's most beautiful small town).This grand loop links together the very best natural landscapes and cultural heritage sites of Western Hunan.

The story of Baofeng Lake is woven from a tapestry of wonders:the human miracle of dam construction achieved in the 1970s;the majestic forest of peaks sculpted from quartz sandstone over a hundred million years ago;and the flowing traditions of Tujia folk songs and cormorant fishing techniques that have endured for millennia.As you step into this"World-Class Lake Classic,"you will not only marvel at the breathtaking scenery—where"half the lake is green water,and the other half is pure reflection"—and personally experience the joyous waves of folk song duets,but you will also,amidst every waterfall,gorge,boat ride,and melody,truly touch the very soul of the mountains and the spirit of the waters of Western Hunan.

IntoTravelChina specializes in crafting in-depth,personalized,and hassle-free travel experiences across China.Our travel experts are here to provide you with:

Tailor-Made Itineraries:We design the perfect route—including Baofeng Lake and surrounding attractions in Zhangjiajie—based entirely on your interests and schedule.

One-Stop Service:We handle everything—tickets,unique accommodations,transportation transfers,local guides,and activity bookings.

Exclusive Experiences:We arrange VIP immersive sessions for Tujia folk song duets,provide guidance on the best photography spots for the Baofeng Waterfall,and book performances of the intangible cultural heritage of cormorant fishing.

Let your visit to Baofeng Lake be more than just sightseeing;let it be an immersive journey of seeking songs amidst the landscapes and exploring the depths of Tujia culture.

>Start Planning Your Journey Now

>We invite you to contact our professional travel consultants;we will provide you with a personalized itinerary proposal and quotation within 24 hours.>>[Click to contact IntoTravelChina Travel Consultant]