Xiaotian Lake
Subtitle: A Guide to the Twin Alpine Lakes of Ningde: Dawang Lake and Xiaotian Lake
Introduction to the Scenic Area Nestled atop Tianhu Mountain on Yushan Island in Ningde, Fujian Province, lie two pristine alpine lakes known collectively as the Tianhu Lakes. Often referred to as Dawang Lake (Big Tianhu) and Xiaotian Lake (Small Tianhu), these natural wonders are situated approximately 20 kilometers from the island's Mazu Village. They form the centerpiece of the Yushan Island Tianhu Scenic Area, offering a breathtaking escape characterized by serene waters, expansive grasslands, and panoramic vistas that starkly contrast with the region's typical coastal scenery. The journey to these high-altitude lakes is an integral part of the experience, leading visitors through increasingly dramatic landscapes to a tranquil, almost otherworldly plateau.
The Landscape and Natural Features 1. The Twin Lakes The two lakes, as their names suggest, differ significantly in size but share an ethereal beauty. Dawang Lake, the larger of the two, covers an impressive area of over 1,000 mu (approximately 67 hectares), while the more intimate Xiaotian Lake spans about 200 mu (roughly 13 hectares). Perched at an elevation of around 500 meters, their waters are remarkably clear, acting as a perfect mirror to the sky.
2. The "Southern Kingdom Prairie" The most striking feature surrounding the lakes is not dense forest, but vast, rolling meadows. Thousands of acres of gentle, grassy slopes encircle the water, creating a landscape so reminiscent of northern grassland steppes that it has earned the poetic nickname "The Southern Kingdom's Tianshan" or "Alps of the South." This unique alpine pasture provides a sense of boundless openness and freedom, with the wind whispering through the grass and the lakes shimmering like jewels set in green velvet.
3. Flora, Fauna, and the "Lake Reflection" Phenomenon The ecological environment here is delicate and rich. The grasslands host a variety of hardy alpine plants, and it is not uncommon to spot wild tortoises near the lakeshores, a testament to the area's pristine condition. The premier visual spectacle, however, is the "Tianhu Fan Ying" or "Lake Reflection" scenery. On calm days, the deep blue sky, drifting white clouds, the intense sun, the gentle moon, and the surrounding emerald-green ridges are all flawlessly mirrored on the glassy surface of the lakes. This ever-changing canvas of light, color, and reflection creates a profoundly peaceful and photogenic panorama that captivates every visitor.
Practical Visitor Information 1. Admission and Tickets * Scenic Area Ticket: A standard adult ticket is priced at 40 RMB. Concession tickets (half-price), typically for children, students, and seniors, are available for 20 RMB. * Shuttle Bus Ticket: A round-trip shuttle bus ticket from the scenic area entrance costs 36 RMB. This transportation is highly recommended due to the distance and terrain. * Important Note: All ticket prices are for reference as of the last update. It is strongly advised to verify the latest pricing on the day of your visit at the official ticket office, as rates and policies are subject to change.
2. Opening Hours The Yushan Island Tianhu Scenic Area is generally open to the public from 08:00 to 17:00 daily throughout the year. Similar to ticket information, these hours are provided as a guideline. Always check for any seasonal adjustments or special announcements from the management before your trip to avoid inconvenience.
3. Suggested Duration of Visit To fully appreciate the beauty of both lakes, walk along the grassy knolls, absorb the vistas, and allow time for photography, a minimum visit of 3 hours is recommended. Visitors who wish to embark on longer hikes around the pasturelands or simply linger to enjoy the tranquility should allocate half a day or more.
4. Contact Information For direct inquiries, you may contact the scenic area at: +86-15359031110.
Visitor Tips and Considerations * Preparation: The weather at high altitude can be changeable. It is advisable to bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) on sunny days, and a light jacket or raincoat as conditions can turn windy or misty quickly. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the grassy slopes. * Transportation Access: Reaching Yushan Island requires a ferry from the mainland. Plan your journey to accommodate ferry schedules in addition to the shuttle bus ride up to the lakes. * Preservation: As a cherished natural site, visitors are urged to practice "Leave No Trace" principles. Carry out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife (including the tortoises), and stay on designated paths to help preserve the fragile grassland ecosystem. * Best Time to Visit: While accessible year-round, spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures and lush greenery. The summer brings vibrant green grasses, and winter offers a different, more austere beauty, though it can be quite cold and windy.
Information last updated: January 10, 2023. Credit and thanks to contributors including Yushan Island's Mr. Zheng, Travelers Worldwide, and Yushan Island's Mr. Orange for their insights.