Baofeng Lake

Historical Overview

Creation: Formed in 1974 after the construction of the Baofeng Dam, which submerged a historic valley but preserved its natural beauty.

Cultural Roots: Home to the Tujia people for centuries, the area features ancient villages, folk songs, and the unique “Tujia love song” tradition.

UNESCO Recognition: Inscribed as part of the Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area in 1992 for its geological and cultural significance.

Modern Development: The 2001 opening of the lake’s cruise tours and 2016 addition of glass-bottomed boats elevated its status as a must-see destination.

Key Events: Hosted the 2018 International Folk Music Festival and annual Dragon Boat Races.

Structural Layout

• Geographical Features:

Lake Surface: 2.5 km², reaching depths of 72 meters, fed by underground springs and mountain runoff.

Surrounding Peaks: Over 100 quartz-sandstone pillars, including the iconic “Echoing Wall” (1,080 meters tall).

Dam Structure: A 50-meter-tall concrete dam with viewing platforms and a hydroelectric station.

• Key Zones:

Cruise Zone: Boat docks, the “Fairy Maid’s Bamboo Grove,” and the “Nine Heavens Staircase” waterfall.

Cultural Zone: Tujia Folk Custom Village, featuring stilt houses, embroidery workshops, and a performance stage.

Hiking Trails: A 6-kilometer loop around the lake with pavilions and vista points.

• Supporting Infrastructure: 

Restaurants, souvenir stalls, and a visitor center with multimedia exhibits.

Major Attractions

Baofeng Lake Cruise: A 45-minute boat ride with commentary on Tujia legends and geological formations.

Echoing Wall: A cliff that amplifies voices across the lake—shout a Tujia folk song for an echo.

Tujia Folk Custom Village: Watch traditional dances, hear the “Crying Marriage Song,” and try sticky rice cakes.

Nine Heavens Staircase: A 100-meter waterfall cascading into the lake, best viewed from the dam.

Moonlight Island: A small islet accessible by boat, ideal for sunset photography.

Glass-Bottomed Boats: Glide over submerged ruins and fish schools (¥50 add-on).

Suggested Itineraries

• Classic Route (2–3 hours):

Cruise → Echoing Wall → Tujia Village → Nine Heavens Staircase → Dam Viewpoint.

Highlights: Boat tour, cultural performances, and waterfall views.

• Cultural Route (4–5 hours):

Tujia Village (embroidery workshop) → Cruise → Moonlight Island → Local Restaurant (Tujia cuisine) → Evening Dance Show.

Highlights: Hands-on crafts, sunset photography, and folk music.

• Adventure Route (Full Day):

Hiking Trail → Cruise → Glass-Bottomed Boat → Dam Viewpoint → Tujia Village (overnight homestay option).

Highlights: Trekking, underwater exploration, and rural immersion.

Ticket Purchase

Online: Book via Ctrip, Fliggy, or the official Wulingyuan website (up to 7 days in advance).

On-Site: Tickets at the visitor center; arrive early to avoid queues.

• Prices:

Adults: ¥96 (peak season), ¥64 (off-season).

Students/Seniors: ¥48 (peak), ¥32 (off-season).

Combo Deals: ¥150 for Baofeng Lake + Tianzi Mountain.

Free: Children under 1.3m, disabled visitors.

Transportation

By Bus: From Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station, take the Wulingyuan shuttle (¥12, 40 minutes) to Baofeng Lake stop.

By Taxi: Direct from Zhangjiajie City (¥80–¥100) or Wulingyuan Town (¥20).

By Tour Group: Half-day tours from Zhangjiajie include hotel pickup (¥150–¥200).

Departure: Buses depart hourly until 6 PM; taxis available for late returns.

Best Time & Tips

Peak Hours: Avoid 11 AM–2 PM (tour groups); visit early (8 AM opening) or stay for sunset.

Weather: April–May (misty peaks) and September–October (clear skies); avoid July–August (rain).

• Essentials:

Wear waterproof shoes (trail bridges get slippery).

Bring a raincoat (sudden showers common in summer).

Learn a Tujia greeting: “Bazui” (hello) or “Alia” (thank you).

Prohibitions: No swimming, fishing, or drone use without permits.

Insider Tip: Visit after 5 PM for discounted tickets (¥50) and fewer crowds.