Xiazhu Lake National Wetland Park (下渚湖国家湿地公园), located in Deqing County, Zhejiang Province, spans approximately 36 square kilometers with a water area of 3.4 square kilometers and a central lake of 1.26 square kilometers, making it the fifth-largest inland lake in Zhejiang. The lake is dotted with over 600 islets and crisscrossed by more than 1,000 waterways. It is home to over 800 species of flora and fauna, including the wild soybean, often referred to as the “panda of plants,” and the crested ibis, known as the “panda of birds.”
Every year from March to April, vast fields of rapeseed flowers bloom, transforming the wetland into a vibrant yellow tapestry. Visitors can enjoy boat rides through the interwoven water channels amidst the sea of blooming flowers, experiencing the sensation of navigating a floating maze of rapeseed blossoms. This picturesque scene offers a unique and tranquil escape, highlighting the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of Xiazhu Lake National Wetland Park.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Xiazhu Lake National Wetland Park
- Vlog about Xiazhu Lake National Wetland Park
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 – 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | 115 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.30 – 16.30; Last admission: 16.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0572-8484158 |
Location and Transportation
Xiazhu Lake National Wetland Park is located in the southeastern part of Deqing County, Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province, near Xinshi Ancient Town. Visitors can reach the park by first taking a high-speed train to Deqing Station. From there, they can transfer to Deqing Bus Route 105 or 121 and get off at “Xiazhu Lake Station (下渚湖站),” which is only 4 kilometers away.
Highlights of Xiazhu Lake National Wetland Park
Bamboo Tower Island
Also known as the Reed Maze Area, Bamboo Tower Island offers a unique experience of navigating through a labyrinth of tall reeds. This scenic island provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy the local delicacy, “Three-Path Tea,” a specialty of Deqing, which embodies the region’s rich culinary heritage. The island features a three-story observation tower, from which visitors can take in the panoramic views of Xiazhu Lake. From this vantage point, the lake’s 600+ islets and over 1,000 intersecting waterways resemble a vast, intricate water maze. The tranquil setting and scenic vistas make Bamboo Tower Island a must-visit spot within the park.
Panda Garden
Home to two giant pandas, De De and Qing Qing, who arrived on January 22, 2013, from the Ya’an Bifengxia Panda Base in Sichuan, the Panda Garden is a major attraction in Xiazhu Lake National Wetland Park. Situated on Fangfeng Mountain, 125 meters above sea level on the northern shore of Xiazhu Lake, the Panda Garden covers an area of 11 acres. The enclosure is designed to harmonize with the natural landscape, retaining the original slopes and undulations of the mountain. The main building, with its white walls and black tiles, reflects the traditional Huizhou architectural style and symbolizes the pandas’ black and white fur. The panda house includes bamboo groves, rockeries, a wading pool, and a small wooden bridge, creating a semi-natural environment for the pandas to explore and play. This thoughtfully designed habitat provides shelter and entertainment for the pandas, ensuring their comfort and well-being.
Le Island
Le Island spans approximately 290,000 square meters and offers a variety of recreational and educational activities. This multifaceted area includes a dreamlike sea of flowers, a café called Moke Café, sandpit play areas, a children’s park, self-rowing boats, a large grassy lawn for relaxation, a gravity playground, a VR experience hall, an animal performance theater, and a picturesque lotus pond. Visitors can enjoy a full range of activities that blend leisure, learning, and ecological appreciation, fully immersing themselves in the unique wetland culture.
Egret Isle
Also known as Crested Ibis Island, Egret Isle is a paradise for wetland birds. From March to September each year, thousands of egrets gather on the island’s two hills, creating a spectacular sight for bird watchers. The island features a specimen museum displaying 1,419 specimens of flora and fauna, showcasing the rich biodiversity of Xiazhu Lake. Adjacent to the museum is the crested ibis enclosure, home to this precious species known as the “Oriental Gem” and the “Bird of Auspiciousness.” The crested ibis is one of China’s national treasures, along with the giant panda, golden monkey, and takin. The museum and ibis enclosure offer educational insights into the region’s wildlife and conservation efforts.
