Jingpo Lake:A Journey of Ice and Fire on a Volcanic Barrier Lake

A Geological Marvel—A Masterpiece Forged by Surging Lava Ten Thousand Years Ago

The story of Jingpo Lake begins with a cataclysmic geological event in the distant past.Approximately 10,000 years ago,a cluster of volcanoes deep within the Zhangguangcai Range of the Changbai Mountains erupted violently.Torrents of scorching basaltic lava surged from the craters,cascading down the valleys until they formed a natural lava dam across the main course of the Mudan River,effectively blocking its flow.As the river waters rose and gradually overflowed,the magnificent body of water known today as Jingpo Lake was born.

According to geological studies,the Jingpo Lake volcanic cluster experienced three major eruptive phases during the Quaternary period—approximately 12,000,8,300,and 5,140 years ago.The lava flows coursed through a 65-kilometer-long valley,carving out lava tunnels spanning over 20 kilometers in length,before ultimately damming the Mudan River valley to create this spectacular lake.The lake itself takes the shape of a long,narrow,inverted"F";it reaches a maximum depth of approximately 60 meters and holds a water volume of about 1.625 billion cubic meters.With a surface as smooth and reflective as a mirror—mirroring the surrounding mountains and the azure sky—the name"Jingpo"(meaning"Mirror Lake")is truly fitting.1.2 The Legend of Hongluo Nu—The Myth of the Magic Mirror That Became a Lake

In local folklore,Jingpo Lake is also associated with a beautiful legend.It is said that long ago,a beautiful and kind-hearted woman named Hongluo Nu lived along the banks of the Mudan River.She possessed a magic mirror;whenever a household faced hardship,a mere glance from the mirror would dispel their troubles and avert disaster.News of this reached the Heavenly Court,arousing the jealousy of the Queen Mother of the West,who dispatched a celestial deity to steal the mirror.Hongluo Nu ascended to the heavens to reclaim it,but during the ensuing struggle,the mirror fell back down to the mortal realm,transforming into the crystal-clear,mirror-like lake we see today.To honor her memory,the locals built the Hongluo Nu Cultural Park on the lakeshore;this beautiful legend adds a touch of romance and mystery to the allure of Jingpo Lake.

>Dive Deeper:Explore More of China’s Volcanic Wonders<<[Xuexiang National Forest Park]

Nature’s Masterpiece—A Spectacle Sculpted by Lava and Flowing Water

The natural landscape of Jingpo Lake is an eternal symphony of lava,flowing water,and the passage of time.

Diaoshuilou Waterfall:The Thunderous Majesty of China’s Largest Volcanic Waterfall

Located at the northern outlet of Jingpo Lake,Diaoshuilou Waterfall serves as the very soul of the scenic area and stands as China’s largest volcanic waterfall.Spanning approximately 40 to over 200 meters in width with a drop of about 20 meters,it is the world's largest waterfall formed by the collapse of a lava tube.During the rainy or flood seasons,the waterfall’s span can exceed 300 meters;as the lake water cascades down the steep basalt cliffs,the roar of the water resembles thunder,and the surging white waves create a truly magnificent spectacle.

Beneath the waterfall lies the Black Dragon Pool(Heilongtan),a basin approximately 100 meters in diameter with waters so deep they appear bottomless.Standing on the observation deck,visitors are enveloped by the rising mist,allowing them to truly feel the awe-inspiring power of nature.Most astonishing of all,from June to September each year,the site hosts world-class cliff-diving performances—courageous divers leap from the very top of the waterfall into the Black Dragon Pool below,drawing thunderous applause from the crowd.>Photography Tip:The lighting is optimal around 10:00 AM,and rainbows can often be spotted amidst the waterfall's mist.During the high-water season,the waterfall spans an immense width;it is recommended to use a wide-angle lens to capture the full panoramic view.

The Crater Underground Forest:A Green Kingdom Within a Ten-Thousand-Year-Old Crater

Located approximately 40 kilometers northwest of the Jingpo Lake Scenic Area lies a hidden,breathtaking natural wonder:the Crater Underground Forest.This site consists of multiple craters formed by volcanic eruptions over 10,000 years ago.The original craters are now blanketed by lush,verdant woodlands;standing at the crater's rim and gazing downward,one beholds layer upon layer of green vegetation—a truly refreshing and soul-soothing sight.Within the scenic area,lava caves offer the opportunity to observe the formations of basalt rock up close;in the summer,the caves remain cool and refreshing,offering a unique sanctuary distinct from the world above.

The Eight Great Scenic Spots of Jingpo Lake:Pearls Amidst the Lake and Mountains

Taking a boat tour of the lake is an excellent way to fully appreciate the beauty of Jingpo Lake.Embedded within the lake are eight renowned scenic spots—Baishilazi,Dagushan,Xiaogushan,Chengqianglazi,Zhenzhumen,Daoshishan,Laogualazi,and Diaoshuilou Waterfall—which collectively form a unique tapestry of natural beauty.Among them,Dagushan(Big Solitary Mountain)rises 65 meters above the water's surface and covers an area of​​approximately 10,000 square meters;this solitary peak stands tall amidst the lake,resembling a green pearl set against the azure waves.In recent years,new wonders have been discovered here—including a natural stone Buddha formation and the"Mao Gong Mountain"landscape—adding even more fascinating attractions to this picturesque region of lakes and mountains.

Human Ingenuity:Traces of an Ancient Kingdom and a Fishing-and-Hunting Culture

The Ruins of the Bohai Kingdom(Tang Dynasty):Seeking the Former Glory of the"Great Kingdom of the Eastern Sea"

Located in Bohai Town,Ning'an City—approximately 20 kilometers from Jingpo Lake—lie the ruins of Shangjing Longquanfu,the capital of the Bohai Kingdom during the Tang Dynasty.The Bohai Kingdom was a regional feudal polity established primarily by the Mohe people during the flourishing era of the Tang Dynasty;historically known as the"Great Kingdom of the Eastern Sea,"its history dates back over 1,300 years.Shangjing Longquanfu served as the capital of the Kingdom of Balhae.Originally constructed during the reign of King Wen(Da Qinmao)—the third monarch of Balhae—the city was planned and designed modeled after Chang'an,the capital of China's Tang Dynasty.It comprises an outer city,an inner city,and a palace city;the outer city alone boasts a perimeter of 16.3 kilometers and a total area of​​16.4 square kilometers.In 1961,the State Council designated this site as one of the first batches of Major Historical and Cultural Sites Protected at the National Level.Standing atop these thousand-year-old ruins and reflecting on the prosperity and grandeur of that bygone era evokes a profound sense of awe and nostalgia.

Jingpo Lake Winter Fishing:A Snowy Carnival of Millennia-Old Fishing and Hunting Culture

Every winter,when the surface of Jingpo Lake freezes to a thickness exceeding one meter,the lake welcomes its annual winter fishing extravaganza.At the 11th Winter Fishing Festival,performances of traditional Northeast ChineseYanggefolk dance instantly ignited the crowd's enthusiasm.Visitors were able to witness firsthand as fishermen employed ancient under-ice net-hauling techniques to pull in catches weighing thousands of kilograms in a single net.The Winter Fishing Festival also incorporates festive programs—such as grand drum performances and traditional fishing songs—and offers over a dozen ice-and-snow recreational activities,including snow-based ATV rides and photo opportunities at the frozen Diaoshuilou Waterfall.Additionally,visitors can pitch winter fishing tents directly on the ice,experiencing the competitive thrill of"hunting for fish through the ice."

The Hongluonu Cultural Park and Yaoshi Ancient Temple:Cultural Embellishments Amidst the Scenery

Located near the Diaoshuilou Waterfall stands the Hongluonu Cultural Park.Through a combination of sculptures and illustrated displays,the park recounts the legendary tale of a benevolent woman who used a magical mirror to protect the local populace.Situated by the lakeside,the ancient Yaoshi Temple is built harmoniously into the surrounding landscape;the rising wisps of incense smoke lend an air of Zen tranquility to this picturesque setting.

>Photography Tips:When taking a boat tour of the lake,the light is softest during the early morning or late evening hours,creating distinct silhouettes of Big Gushan and Little Gushan against the backlight.When photographing the winter fishing scenes,it is recommended to use a telephoto lens to capture the dynamic moments as the fishermen cast their nets.

Five Must-Do Activities to Unlock the Best of Jingpo Lake

1.Visit Diaoshuilou Waterfall and Witness a World-Class Cliff Diving Performance

Key Highlight:This is the absolute essence of Jingpo Lake—an experience you simply cannot miss!

Experience:Stand on the observation deck to feel the natural awe of the mist washing over you and the thunderous roar of the water echoing in your ears.From June to September,multiple cliff diving performances take place daily;brave divers plunge from the very top of the waterfall into the Black Dragon Pool below—a thrilling spectacle that invariably draws thunderous applause from the crowd.We recommend arriving before 10:00 AM to secure the best vantage point.

Tip:The mist around the waterfall area can be quite heavy;we suggest bringing a waterproof camera or a waterproof case for your mobile phone.

2.Cruise Across the Lake to Admire the Scenery and Seek Out the"Eight Great Sights"

Experience:Depart by boat from the Villa Pier and cruise along the 45-kilometer-long lake,admiring scenic highlights such as Baishilazi,Big Gushan Island,Little Gushan Island,and Pearl Gate.The lake water is as clear as a mirror,reflecting the lush green mountains on both shores like a flowing scroll of traditional landscape painting.A"Half-Lake"cruise takes approximately 1.5 hours,while a"Full-Lake"cruise takes about 2.5 hours.

Recommendation:The"Half-Lake"cruise offers the best value for money,providing ample opportunity to fully appreciate the most spectacular scenery Jingpo Lake has to offer.

3.Explore the Volcanic Crater Underground Forest:Step into a 10,000-Year-Old Volcanic Sanctuary

Experience:A scenic 40-minute drive from the main Jingpo Lake scenic area brings you to the Volcanic Crater Underground Forest.Stand at the rim of the crater and gaze down into the deep green chasm—a landscape sculpted by the passage of 10,000 years—and marvel at the uncanny craftsmanship of Mother Nature.You can also venture into the lava caves to observe the intricate textures of the basalt rock up close;during the summer months,the caves offer a refreshingly cool retreat.

Time Allotment:We recommend setting aside 3 to 4 hours to fully explore the Underground Forest area.

4.In Winter:Attend the Grand Winter Fishing Festival and Experience the Icy Carnival

Experience:Every year from January through mid-February,the Jingpo Lake Winter Fishing Festival is in full swing,offering a vibrant celebration amidst the snow and ice.Witness firsthand as fishermen employ the ancient technique of under-ice net fishing,hauling in thousands of pounds of fresh fish in a single catch—a truly awe-inspiring spectacle.You can also savor"iron-pot stewed fish,"cooked immediately after being caught,experiencing a unique culinary delight where the flavors of the icy landscape mingle with the warmth of the steaming broth.

Tip:Winter fishing activities typically take place in the morning;it is recommended to check the specific schedule in advance.

5.Savor the Jingpo Lake Fish Feast:The Fresh Flavors of the North

Must-Try Delicacies:Jingpo Lake abounds with various fish species—including lake carp,red-tail fish,and mandarin fish—all renowned for their tender,delicate flesh.The"Fish Feast"is a local specialty par excellence:steamed,braised in soy sauce,simmered in soup,or deep-fried—each fish is prepared in multiple ways,offering a culinary experience that leaves a lasting impression.In winter,the"iron-pot stewed live fish"is an authentic local experience you simply cannot miss.

Recommended Dining Spots:The"Fish Flavor Restaurant"(Yuwei Canting)located within the Jingpo Lake Scenic Area,or the rustic farmhouse-style eateries situated near the mountain lodges.

Suggested Itineraries

One-Day"Lake&Waterfall Highlights"Tour(Ideal for those with limited time):

8:00 AM:Arrive at the North Gate of the Jingpo Lake Scenic Area→Take the sightseeing shuttle to Diaoshuilou Waterfall and watch the 10:00 AM cliff diving performance(1 hour)→Tour the Hongluonu Cultural Park and Yaoshi Ancient Temple(30 minutes)→Lunch:Enjoy a Jingpo Lake Fish Feast within the scenic area(1 hour)→Afternoon:Take a"Half-Lake Cruise"to admire the picturesque scenery,viewing landmarks such as Big Gushan Island,Little Gushan Island,and Baishilaizi Cliff(1.5 hours)→Approx.4:00 PM:Tour concludes.

IntoTravelChina Tip:This itinerary covers the most iconic natural attractions of Jingpo Lake and is well-suited for visitors with limited time.It is recommended to confirm the exact schedule for the cliff diving performance through official channels in advance.

Two-Day"Panoramic&In-Depth"Tour(Highly Recommended):

Day 1:Arrive at Jingpo Lake in the morning→Tour Diaoshuilou Waterfall and watch the cliff diving performance→Visit the Hongluonu Cultural Park and Yaoshi Ancient Temple→Lunch:Enjoy a Jingpo Lake Fish Feast→Afternoon:Take a"Half-Lake Cruise"to admire the scenic beauty→Evening:Check in to your accommodation at Jingpo Town and enjoy the sunset over the lake.Day 2:Morning—Head to the Underground Forest at the Crater,exploring lava caves and the volcanic crater(3 hours)→Midday—Lunch near the scenic area→Afternoon—Visit Jingpo Gorge(Summer)or experience traditional Winter Fishing(Winter)→Evening—Travel to Bohai Town in Ning'an City to visit the ruins of Shangjing Longquanfu,the capital of the Tang Dynasty-era Bohai Kingdom→Tour concludes around 17:00.

IntoTravelChina Advantage:We can book the accommodation best suited to your needs,seamlessly coordinate the transitions between all activities,and provide a detailed itinerary map along with 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.>> [Click to contact an IntoTravelChina travel consultant]

How to Get There:Mudanjiang is the Main Transit Hub

Jingpo Lake is located within the jurisdiction of Ning'an City,Mudanjiang,and is relatively accessible via various modes of transport.

By Air:You can fly from major cities across the country directly to Mudanjiang Hailang Airport.From the airport,you can charter a car or take a taxi to the Jingpo Lake Scenic Area(approx.1.5 hours).Alternatively,you can fly to Harbin Taiping Airport and then transfer to a high-speed train or drive yourself to the destination.

By High-Speed/Regular Train:High-speed trains from across the country arrive at Mudanjiang Station.From the Mudanjiang Passenger Transport Station,you can take a direct shuttle bus to the Jingpo Lake Scenic Area(approx.50 RMB per person;2-hour journey).

By Self-Driving/Chartered Car(Recommended):If departing from Harbin,take the Ha-Mu Expressway to Mudanjiang,then proceed through Ning'an to reach Jingpo Lake;the total journey takes approximately 4–5 hours.If departing from Mudanjiang city center,head south along National Highway G201 for about 1.5 hours to reach the destination.

Scenic Area Entrances:The scenic area features two entrances:the North Gate and the East Gate.The North Gate is closest to the Diaoshuilou Waterfall and is the preferred entry point for most visitors.

Important Return Trip Reminder:If you plan to watch the winter fishing activities or evening performances,please pay close attention to the departure times of the last return shuttle buses(typically between 16:30 and 17:00).It is recommended to book a ride-hailing service in advance or contact your hotel to arrange transportation.

Best Time to Visit

Jingpo Lake offers beautiful scenery in every season;however,summer(June–September)features a cool and pleasant climate,making it the ideal season for a summer getaway.Winter(December–February)offers unique attractions such as frozen waterfalls and winter fishing,making it perfect for snow and ice enthusiasts.

Summer Season(June–August):The climate is cool and pleasant,with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C,establishing it as a premier summer resort destination.The lake waters are deep blue and crystal clear,the Diaoshuilou Waterfall flows with abundant volume,and the famous cliff-diving performances are staged daily during this period.This is also the best time of year to enjoy a boat tour of the lake.

Autumn(September–October):The forests are ablaze with color—a vibrant tapestry of red,orange,and gold—and the colorful mountain scenery is beautifully reflected in the lake's surface,making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts.Spring(April–May):As the ice and snow melt,mountain flowers burst into bloom;theDazixiangrhododendrons blanket the hillsides,creating a scene of unique charm.

Winter(December–February):The lake surface freezes over,and the Diaoshuilou Waterfall transforms into a crystal-clear cascade of ice;the frost-rime scenery is truly picturesque.During the Winter Fishing Festival(January through mid-February),visitors can experience the allure of a thousand-year-old fishing and hunting culture.

Best Times of Day:The lighting is optimal between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM,making it the ideal time for photographing the waterfall and the cliff-diving performances.In the late afternoon(5:00 PM to 6:00 PM),as the sun sets and casts a golden shimmer across the lake,it is the prime time for a boat tour.

Admission&Opening Hours

Admission Fee:Entrance to the Jingpo Lake Scenic Area is approximately 100 RMB per person;the eco-shuttle bus fee is 30 RMB per person(latest rates for 2025).

Boat Tour Fares:A"Half-Lake"boat tour costs 100 RMB per person,while a"Full-Lake"tour costs 280 RMB per person.

Crater Underground Forest Admission:Approximately 50 RMB per person.

Concessions:Students,seniors,and other eligible groups enjoy half-price admission upon presentation of valid identification(specific policies are subject to the official announcements posted at the scenic area on the day of your visit).

Opening Hours:Summer(08:00–17:30);Winter(08:30–16:30).

Accommodation Options

Jingpo Town/Within the Scenic Area(Recommended):Located near the scenic area's North Gate,this area features numerous hotels and resorts,all within walking distance of the Diaoshuilou Waterfall.Recommended options include the"Jingpo Lake Hotel"and similar establishments;reference rates range from 300 to 600 RMB per night.

Surrounding the Jingpo Gorge Scenic Area:Situated close to the Crater Underground Forest,this area is ideal for visitors planning an in-depth exploration of the forest the following day;options include local farmstays and guesthouses.

Mudanjiang City Center:Offers a wide range of choices,from budget-friendly inns to five-star hotels.This option suits travelers planning to visit other attractions within Mudanjiang City or those with higher standards for accommodation quality;however,the daily commute to the scenic area takes approximately 1.5 hours.IntoTravelChina Accommodation Booking Tips:

We strongly recommend planning your itinerary and booking your accommodation at least 1–2 months in advance—especially during the summer season(June–August)and the winter ice and snow season(December–February).Lake-view hotels and resorts in Jingpo Town are often in high demand and book up quickly.By booking through us,you gain access to real-time room availability and the ability to bundle your accommodation,attraction tickets,and transportation into a single,cohesive plan.This often results in package discounts and ensures a seamless,hassle-free travel experience.Simply tell us your budget and preferences,and we will match you with the perfect"lakeside retreat.">> [Click to contact an IntoTravelChina travel consultant]

Jingpo Lake is by no means the end of your journey;rather,it serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the magnificent landscapes of China's North.

Classic 2-Day Loop:Day 1:Jingpo Lake(Diaoshuilou Waterfall+Lake Cruise)→Day 2:Underground Forest at the Volcanic Crater+Ruins of Shangjing Longquanfu(Capital of the Bohai Kingdom,Tang Dynasty).This classic route seamlessly blends geological wonders,scenic lake and mountain vistas,and rich historical and cultural heritage.

Summer Escape Route:Jingpo Lake→Mudanjiang City Center(Monument to the Eight Heroines Drowning Themselves in the River)→Hengdaohezi Russian-Style Town→Weihushan Film&TV City.Experience the refreshing coolness and unique charm of this northern mountain city.

Winter Ice&Snow Route:Jingpo Lake(Winter Fishing Festival+Frozen Waterfalls)→Mudanjiang Ice&Snow Park→Yabuli Ski Resort.Immerse yourself in the captivating allure of Northeast China's winter wonderland.

The story of Jingpo Lake is woven from geological miracles—where lava surged ten thousand years ago—the beautiful legend of the Goddess Hongluo turning her magic mirror into a lake,and a thousand-year-old legacy of fishing and hunting culture passed down through generations.Step into this"West Lake of the North,"and you will not only witness the thunderous power of the Diaoshuilou Waterfall with your own eyes,but also feel the awe-inspiring artistry of nature and the bold,spirited character of the Northeast Chinese land reflected in every mountain,stream,waterfall,and lake.

IntoTravelChina specializes in crafting in-depth,personalized,and worry-free travel experiences across China.Our travel experts can assist you by:

Tailoring Your Itinerary:Designing the perfect route—customized to your interests and schedule—that encompasses Jingpo Lake and surrounding attractions in Northeast China.

Providing One-Stop Service:Handling all arrangements,including entrance tickets,unique accommodations,transportation transfers,local guides,and activity bookings.

Arranging Exclusive Experiences:Securing expert guides for the Underground Forest at the Volcanic Crater,VIP viewing spots for the cliff diving spectacle,reservations for winter fishing excursions,and more.

Let your visit to Jingpo Lake be more than just sightseeing;transform it into an immersive journey exploring volcanic wonders and the rich culture of local fishing and hunting traditions.

>Start Planning Your Trip Now

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