Baofeng Lake

What it is

Baofeng Lake sits at the heart of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area in Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province. It was formed in the 1970s when a small dam was built across a mountain stream, flooding a narrow valley and creating a deep, emerald lake surrounded by quartz-sandstone cliffs. The name 'Baofeng' means 'Precious Peak', a reference to the prominent crag that rises directly from the water. Because the lake lies at about 585 metres above sea level, it offers a cooler, calmer counterpoint to the busier trails of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, and it has become a favourite stop for travellers seeking a quieter side of the region.

The lake is part of the larger Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site designated in 1992. Its shoreline is lined with lush broadleaf forest, and the water is home to several species of carp and other freshwater fish. A network of wooden walkways and a short tunnel connect the dock to the boat pier, making the site accessible even for those who prefer not to hike. The boat tour typically lasts 30–40 minutes and includes commentary in Chinese, though our guides provide English explanations and help you capture the best angles.

Highlights

• Scenic boat cruise — glide across the emerald water past towering cliffs and small islands, with a local guide pointing out rock formations and hidden caves.
• Tujia folk songs — listen to traditional mountain songs performed by local singers on the shore, a cultural highlight that echoes across the lake.
• Waterfall and stream walk — a gentle 15-minute walk from the entrance leads to a small waterfall and a shaded stream, perfect for a cool break.
• Panoramic viewpoints — climb the short trail to the upper viewing platform for sweeping photos of the lake and surrounding peaks.
• Peaceful escape — far less crowded than the main Zhangjiajie trails, ideal for a relaxed half-day amid nature.

How to get there

Baofeng Lake is about 40 km from Zhangjiajie city and 15 km from Wulingyuan town. Most travellers reach it by private car or taxi (¥80–120 one way) from Wulingyuan, or as part of a guided day tour that combines it with Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Public buses are limited, so we usually arrange a private transfer. It slots neatly into a half-day itinerary, either as a morning escape before the crowds or an afternoon wind-down after the glass bridge.

Tickets & practical info

Admission plus boat ride costs ¥96 per person (children under 1.2 m free). Opening hours are 07:30–17:30, with last boats around 17:00. Book through our guide or at the gate; foreign cards are not accepted at the ticket office, so bring cash or use WeChat Pay/Alipay linked to an international card.

Best time to visit

Visit from April to October when the lake is at its fullest and the surrounding forest is lush green. Early morning (before 9 am) offers mirror-like water and fewer tour groups; late afternoon light is also beautiful. Avoid Chinese public holidays like Golden Week (Oct 1–7) when queues for boats can be long.

Tips from our guides

• Arrive before 9 am to catch the calmest water and avoid the tour-bus rush that peaks around 10:30.
• Bring a light jacket even in summer — the lake sits in a shaded valley and boat rides can be breezy.
• Use WeChat Pay or Alipay for tickets and snacks; foreign credit cards are rarely accepted at small vendors.
• Wear comfortable shoes with grip; the wooden walkways can be slippery after rain.
• Ask our guide to translate the Tujia folk songs and point out the best photo spots on the boat.

FAQ