Explore the 11 Picture-Perfect Lakes in China

Lakes in China are among the most scenic in the world, reflecting the country’s vast natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

From mirror-like highland lakes in Tibet to subtropical ones in the south, these shimmering water bodies offer a mix of mystery, outdoor activities, and stunning views.

Here’s a closer look at 11 of the best lakes in China worth exploring.

1. Qinghai Lake – The Mirror of the Plateau

China’s largest saltwater lake, Qinghai Lake, is nestled at 3,200 meters above sea level on the Tibetan Plateau.

Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and vast grasslands, this sapphire-blue lake is a popular spot for biking and birdwatching.

Highlights:

• Home to Bird Island, a haven for migratory birds in summer.

• Cycle around the lake on a 360-km road, used in the Qinghai Lake International Road Cycling Race.

• Offers stunning sunrise and sunset views over reflective waters.

• Cultural site for Tibetan pilgrims and prayer-flag-wrapped stupas.

• Ideal for photography, horse riding, and yurt stays with local nomads.

Location: Qinghai Province
Entry Fee: Approx. ¥100 (varies by access point)
Timings: Open year-round
Activities: Cycling, birdwatching, hiking, photography

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2. West Lake

Source: wikipedia

With its classical gardens, stone bridges, and willow-lined shores, West Lake is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s most romantic destinations.

Highlights:

• Known for the “Ten Scenes of West Lake”, like “Leifeng Pagoda in the Sunset.”

• Boat cruises at dusk offer views of the city’s skyline and pagodas.

• Home to ancient legends, such as the Lady White Snake.

• Surrounded by tea plantations and walking trails.

• It has been the frequent subject of Chinese poetry and art for over a millennium.

Location: Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province
Entry Fee: Free (fees for attractions/cruises)
Timings: Open 24 hours
Activities: Boating, tea tasting, garden walks, photography
Nearby Restaurants: Lou Wai Lou

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3. Namtso Lake

Source: wikipedia

Namtso, which translates to “Heavenly Lake,” lies at an elevation of 4,718 meters, making it one of the world’s highest saltwater lakes.

Its turquoise waters and surrounding snow-covered peaks create a dreamlike landscape.

Highlights:

• Fringed by the Nyainqentanglha Mountains, offering incredible photo ops.

• Pilgrims circle the lake in a sacred ritual known as the kora.

• Unbelievable stargazing due to high altitude and minimal light pollution.

• Spiritual significance in Tibetan Buddhism.

• Ice sheets begin melting in May, revealing glassy-blue reflections.

Location: Tibet Autonomous Region
Entry Fee: Approx. ¥120
Timings: Best visited from May to September
Activities: Pilgrimage, meditation, hiking, photography
Nearby Restaurants: Limited; basic local eateries in nearby tents or towns.

4. Kanas Lake

Source: wikipedia

Nestled in the Altai Mountains in Xinjiang, Kanas Lake is a hidden alpine treasure known for its shape-shifting colors and mythic charm.

Highlights:

• Water colors shift from turquoise to emerald green with the seasons.

• Local legends speak of a lake monster, sometimes called “China’s Loch Ness.”

• Surrounded by dense Siberian forests and snow-capped peaks.

• Wooden houses of the Tuva minority villages give a rustic, pastoral vibe.

• Scenic boat rides offer incredible reflections of the surrounding mountains.

Location: Burqin County, Xinjiang
Entry Fee: ¥150–200 (seasonal)
Timings: May to October (closed in winter)
Activities: Boating, hiking, photography, and folk culture tours
Nearby Restaurants: Kanas Restaurant, local yurts serving lamb stew and naan

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5. Poyang Lake – China’s Largest Freshwater Lake

Poyang Lake, located in Jiangxi Province, is vast and dynamic. Its size fluctuates seasonally, and it’s a key part of the Yangtze River Basin ecosystem.

Highlights:

• Crucial sanctuary for over 500,000 migratory birds, including endangered cranes.

• Birdwatching paradise, especially during winter months.

• Known as the “Bermuda Triangle of the East” due to mysterious boat disappearances.

• The lake expands dramatically during the rainy season.

• Excellent for ecological tourism and photography.

Location: Jiangxi Province
Entry Fee: Free (fees may apply at nature reserves)
Timings: Best visited from November to March for birdwatching
Activities: Birdwatching, photography, boat tours
Nearby Restaurants: Local eateries in Nanchang city serving Jiangxi cuisine

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6. Thousand Island Lake

Source: wikipedia

As its name suggests, Thousand Island Lake is dotted with 1,078 islets, making it one of the most unique and visually arresting lakes in China.

Highlights:

• An artificial lake was formed after the Xin’an River Dam was built in 1959.

• Crystal-clear waters are often described as being “cleaner than bottled water.”

• Scenic boat rides reveal tree-covered islands, some themed like Bird Island or Snake Island.

• Popular for luxury lake cruises and water sports.

• The submerged ancient city “Lion City” lies deep beneath the surface.

Location: Chun’an County, Zhejiang Province
Entry Fee: ¥150–200 (varies by island tours)
Timings: Year-round; best in spring and autumn
Activities: Cruising, island hopping, diving, photography
Nearby Restaurants: Fish Head Soup specialty restaurants, local seafood spots

7. Lugu Lake

Source: wikipedia

On the border of Sichuan and Yunnan lies Lugu Lake, a tranquil, heart-shaped lake famed for the unique Mosuo people, a matrilineal society.

Highlights:

• Home to the “Walking Marriage” tradition of the Mosuo ethnic group.

• Serene, glassy waters are perfect for canoeing on traditional zhucao boats.

• Surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and pagoda-shaped mountain peaks.

• Offers a rare cultural experience fused with nature.

• Lush islands like Liwubi Island are accessible via wooden boats.

Location: Sichuan–Yunnan Border
Entry Fee: ¥100–120
Timings: Best visited from March to October
Activities: Cultural tours, canoeing, hiking, camping
Nearby Restaurants: Mosuo-style eateries, fresh grilled fish stalls

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8. Erhai Lake

Source: wikipedia

A sparkling freshwater lake in Yunnan Province, Erhai gets its name from its shape, which resembles an ear.

It’s flanked by the Cangshan Mountains and dotted with charming villages.

Highlights:

• Popular for cycling loops around the entire lake.

• Romantic sunrises and vibrant rural markets nearby.

• Traditional Bai architecture and villages give an authentic local feel.

• Reflective waters are often described as “silver” at dawn and dusk.

• Features small islands like Jinsuo Island, accessible by boat.

Location: Dali, Yunnan Province
Entry Fee: Free (some areas like the Three Pagodas require payment)
Timings: Year-round; best in spring and fall
Activities: Cycling, boating, photography, cultural exploration
Nearby Restaurants: Slow Food Dali, Eatery by the Lake

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9. Yamdrok Lake

Source: wikipedia

Known as one of the three sacred lakes of Tibet, Yamdrok Lake glows in unreal hues of blue and green, with the snow-capped Himalayas reflected in its calm waters.

Highlights:

• Spiritual significance, believed to be the life-spirit of Tibetan deities.

• Offers mind-blowing views of Mt. Nojin Kangtsang in the distance.

• Ideal for meditation, reflection, and photography.

• The lake changes color depending on the sun and clouds.

• Yaks graze peacefully along the shoreline, adding to the pastoral charm.

Location: Tibet Autonomous Region
Entry Fee: Part of the Tibet travel permits
Timings: Accessible May–October (closed in winter due to heavy snow)
Activities: Roadside photography, cultural rituals, picnicking
Nearby Restaurants: Limited; mostly picnic areas or local tents

10. Heaven Lake (Tianchi)

Source: wikipedia

Perched on the border between China and North Korea, Heaven Lake sits inside a volcanic crater on Mount Changbai. At 2,189 meters, it offers a surreal alpine scene.

Highlights:

• Formed by a volcanic eruption, giving it near-perfect symmetry.

• Snowcapped peaks surround the deep blue lake.

• Myths claim a “Lake Monster” lives in its mysterious depths.

• Fluctuating clouds create dramatic lighting conditions all day long.

• A popular spot for hiking and thermal spring visits is nearby.

Location: Jilin Province
Entry Fee: ¥125–200 depending on season
Timings: May to October
Activities: Hiking, sightseeing, hot spring visits
Nearby Restaurants: Korean BBQ and regional cuisine in nearby towns

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11. Dianchi Lake

Once called “Kunming’s mother lake”, Dianchi is a large freshwater lake in Yunnan, bordered by karst hills and modern developments.

Highlights:

• Visit the Western Hills Dragon Gate Grottoes overlooking the lake.

• Scenic boardwalks and bicycle paths make it a local leisure hub.

• Watch black-headed gulls fly in from Siberia in winter.

• Boat rides at sunset provide unforgettable views.

• Cultural sites like Yunnan Nationalities Village are nearby.

Location: Kunming, Yunnan Province
Entry Fee: Free (cruises and some sites charge)
Timings: Open year-round
Activities: Walking, boating, birdwatching, cultural visits
Nearby Restaurants: Dianchi Lake Restaurant, local seafood stalls

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FAQs

1. How many lakes are in China?

China has over 2,800 natural lakes larger than 1 square kilometer and thousands of smaller ones. Additionally, there are many man-made reservoirs created for irrigation, hydroelectricity, and flood control.

2. Are the lakes in China man-made?

Most lakes in China are natural, but many significant ones, like Thousand Island Lake, are man-made reservoirs. These artificial lakes were often formed through dam projects.

3. What is the most beautiful lake in China?

Namtso Lake in Tibet is often considered the most stunning for its turquoise waters, sacred status, and mountain surroundings. Others like Kanas Lake, Lugu Lake, and West Lake also top the list for their unique cultural, scenic, and seasonal appeal.

4. Can you swim in the lakes in China?

Swimming is allowed in some lakes, like Qiandao Lake or Erhai, but often not recommended due to cold temperatures, water quality, or local customs, especially in sacred lakes like Namtso. Always check local guidelines.

5. What is the best time to visit China’s lakes?

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) are best for most lakes due to mild weather and fewer crowds. Tibetan lakes are only accessible from May to October due to the snow.

6. What activities can you do at the lakes in China?

Visitors can enjoy boating, cycling, hiking, photography, birdwatching, and local cultural experiences. Lakes like Erhai and West Lake offer scenic cruises, while Kanas and Lugu provide cultural immersion. Some lakes also offer fishing, camping, or hot springs nearby.

7. Is there an entry fee for lakes in China?

Some lakes, like West Lake, are free to access, but popular or protected sites like Kanas, Namtso, or Qiandao Lake usually charge entry fees ranging from ¥50 to ¥200.

8. Are pets allowed at China’s lakes?

Pet policies vary. At many urban lakes and parks, pets are allowed on leash. However, protected areas, sacred lakes, or national parks may prohibit pets to protect wildlife or cultural sanctity.