Yanqi Lake (雁栖湖), nestled at the foot of the Yanshan Mountains on the outskirts of Beijing, stands as a picturesque water and land area with its central focus on the serene lake. Known for its stunning landscapes and clear waters, the lake is named after the flocks of wild geese that frequently inhabit its waters during the spring and autumn seasons. Opened to the public in 1987, Yanqi Lake has become a popular tourist destination. It gained international prominence in 2014 when it hosted the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit, and in 2017, it served as the venue for the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation.
Yanqi Lake is comprised of two main areas: East Lake and West Lake. With a vast water surface, the scenic area of Yanqi Lake covers 230 hectares, surrounded by a 14-kilometer-long lakeside footpath. The terrain around the lake is flat, providing ample space for various water and land entertainment activities, making it a well-known tourist attraction and water park in the Beijing suburbs. The lake offers a range of watercraft for sightseeing, including dragon boats, traditional Chinese-style pleasure boats, speedboats, electric boats, and even large rubber duck-shaped boats. Additionally, a variety of land-based recreational activities such as white-water rafting, water rappelling, entertainment cars, pirate ships, bumper cars, cartoon trains, and carousels are available.
Visitors to Yanqi Lake can enjoy a leisurely boat trip around the lake or the island, take a scenic drive or bike ride along the lakeside road, or explore on foot. The diverse range of activities, both on water and land, caters to the interests and preferences of a wide range of visitors, making Yanqi Lake a versatile and enjoyable destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Yanqi Lake
- Map and Recommended Route
- Vlog about Yanqi Lake
- Photography Spots and Tips
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Suburban Natural Sceneries
Basic Information
| Website | http://www.yanqihu.com/ |
| Estimated Length of Tour | A day |
| Ticket Price | 45 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 17.00; The time may be extended during weekends and holidays. |
| Telephone Number | 0086-010-69661696 0086-010-69661194 |
Location and Transportation
Yanqi Lake is situated in the northern part of Beijing, the capital city of China. Specifically, it is located in the Huairou District, which is about 60 kilometers (37 miles) away from the city center. The lake is nestled at the foot of the Yanshan Mountains, creating a picturesque setting surrounded by natural beauty. To get there, you can choose the following ways:
- Route 1: Take the 916 Express bus from Dongzhimen Hub Station and get off at Yangjiayuan Station. Cross the road and transfer to bus 864, getting off at Yanqi Lake Station. Note: Bus 864 runs every 25-30 minutes. (Recommended, this is the fastest route.)
- Route 2: Take the 916 Express bus from Dongzhimen Hub Station and get off at Mingzhu Plaza Station (this is the fastest stop; no need to circle around for another 30 minutes to Huairou Bus Station). Transfer to bus H58 at the same location to Yanqi Lake (or you can transfer to H58 at Huairou Bus Station). Note: Bus H58 runs every 40-60 minutes.
- Route 3: Take the Wangjingxi-Fengning shuttle bus from Wangjing West Subway Station (Exit C) (one bus every 40 minutes), get off at Huairou Bus Station, and wait for bus H58 to Yanqi Lake.
- Route 4: Take the 970 Express or 987 Express bus (available only during morning and evening rush hours) from Wangjing West Subway Station (Exit C) and get off at Miaocheng East. Cross the road and walk west to the bus stop at “Fifth Engineering Office” and wait for bus H58 to Yanqi Lake.
- Route 5: Take the Mu Bus direct shuttle: Available on weekends and holidays from Dongsi Shitiao Subway Station (Exit B), one direct ride to Yanqi Lake.
- Route 6: Train: Departure stations include Beijing North Station/Qinghe Station/Changping North Station, with travel times of 90/60/30 minutes, respectively. Trains run from 6:30 am to 6:50 pm with round-trip tickets available.
Highlights of Yanqi Lake
Scenic Beauty
Yanqi Lake in Beijing is a breathtaking display of natural beauty. Its tranquil waters shimmer with a mesmerizing clarity, reflecting the surrounding mountains and verdant landscapes. The lake’s idyllic setting, nestled at the foot of the Yanshan Mountains, offers a serene escape from the urban bustle. The lush greenery that envelopes the lake creates a picturesque backdrop, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere. Whether it’s the vibrant colors of lotus flowers in bloom or the peaceful stillness of the water, Yanqi Lake’s scenic beauty is a sight to behold, captivating visitors with its harmonious blend of nature and tranquility.
Outdoor Activities
Yanqi Lake in Beijing offers a range of exciting outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. The calm and clear waters of the lake provide a perfect setting for boating, kayaking, and canoeing, allowing visitors to explore the lake’s serenity at their own pace. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck in catching various species of fish that inhabit the lake. Additionally, lakeside picnics and leisurely walks along the promenade offer opportunities to relax and take in the natural beauty. Whether it’s a peaceful boat ride, a thrilling water adventure, or a leisurely stroll, Yanqi Lake provides a wonderful playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Yanqi Lake Resort
The Yanqi Lake Resort, situated on the eastern shore of Yanqi Lake in Beijing, is a luxurious retreat that offers an exceptional experience. This world-class resort boasts elegant accommodations, impeccable service, and a host of amenities. Guests can indulge in exquisite dining options, unwind in luxurious spa facilities, or enjoy a refreshing swim in the inviting pools. The resort’s stunning architecture and beautiful landscaping perfectly complement the natural surroundings, creating a harmonious blend of elegance and serenity. With its picturesque views of Yanqi Lake and its reputation for hosting international summits and conferences, the Yanqi Lake Resort is a destination that promises an unforgettable stay.
Yanqi Pagoda
The Yanqi Pagoda, located near Yanqi Lake in Beijing, is a captivating architectural gem that holds great cultural significance. Rising gracefully towards the sky, this majestic pagoda showcases intricate design and exquisite craftsmanship. Its multi-tiered structure and vibrant colors make it a visually stunning landmark. The pagoda stands as a testament to China’s rich cultural heritage, with a history that dates back centuries. Visitors can explore its interior, admire the ornate decorations, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from its upper levels. The Yanqi Pagoda is a must-visit attraction that offers a glimpse into the country’s ancient traditions and architectural splendor.
Proximity to the Great Wall
Yanqi Lake enjoys a favorable proximity to one of the most iconic attractions in China, the Great Wall. Located near the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, visitors can easily combine their visit to Yanqi Lake with a trip to this awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage site. The Mutianyu section is renowned for its well-preserved condition and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. With a short distance separating Yanqi Lake from the Great Wall, visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in both the natural beauty of the lake and the historical wonders of the Great Wall, creating an unforgettable and enriching experience.
Map and Recommended Route
Yanqi Lake Hiking Routes:
- Moderate Route:
- Enter through Entrance 2 near Parking Lot P5.
- Follow the wooden boardwalk, enjoying the many scenic viewpoints along the way.
- Reach the best viewing point near Entrance 3 in about 1 hour. After taking photos, descend and return to Parking Lot P5 from Entrance 3.
- Easy Route:
- For those with less stamina or limited time, start from Entrance 3.
- It takes just over 10 minutes to reach the best viewing point, then descend the same way back.
- Challenging Route:
- Start from Entrance 2, continue past Entrance 3, and proceed to Entrances 4, 5, and 6.
- The second half of the route has fewer people, offering a quieter experience.
Cycling:
- The starting point of the Yanqi Lake loop trail is directly opposite Parking Lot P5 (see the attached map for exact location).
- The entire loop is 13 kilometers, perfect for family cycling. Bikes are available for rent nearby.
Refreshments:
- There is a food court in Parking Lot P5 offering a variety of snacks such as shengjian (pan-fried buns), malatang (spicy hot pot), jianbing (savory Chinese crepes), Madieer ice cream, and fruit tea. The taste is decent.
- Vending machines are also available at the starting point of the loop trail.
Vlog about Yanqi Lake
Photography Spots and Tips
Viewing Platform at Entrance 3: “Listening to the Geese Return”
- This is one of the best spots for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding scenery. Capture the beauty of the lake with the distant mountains in the background.
White Forest Boardwalk near the Descent from Entrance 3
- The white forest boardwalk offers a unique and picturesque setting for photos. The contrast between the white walkways and the green foliage creates a stunning visual effect.
Elevated Boardwalk near Entrance 2
- Make sure to walk up this elevated boardwalk for a broader perspective. From here, you can capture breathtaking views of the lake behind you.
Photography Tips:
- Shoot from Above: To fully capture the beauty of the grasslands, lake, and forest, take your photos from a higher vantage point. This angle allows you to showcase the expansive landscape behind you.
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photos, giving a warm and soft glow to your pictures.
- Composition: Include natural elements like trees, rocks, and the lake to add depth and interest to your photos.
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Local Cuisine: Within approximately a two-kilometer radius of Yanqi Lake, numerous farmhouse restaurants offer authentic local cuisine. Specialties include grilled rainbow trout, braised pork with chestnuts, steamed sturgeon, and more. It’s highly recommended to experience the most authentic farmhouse delicacies in the area.
Insect Repellent: As Yanqi Lake is a wetland park, mosquitoes can be abundant. It’s essential to prepare in advance by bringing mosquito repellent to ensure a comfortable experience outdoors.
Bicycle Rentals: Along the lake, there are many points where you can rent public bicycles. These bicycles include regular bikes, mountain bikes, and tandem bikes. A deposit of 300 yuan is required, and bikes must be returned to designated locations.
West Mountain Trail: The West Mountain Trail is open from April to October, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The trail spans 6 kilometers and has a total of 6 entry and exit points, allowing visitors to exit at any time.
Timing for Hiking: Whether in the morning or afternoon, it’s advisable to have a meal before hiking. Most of the trail lacks food supply points, and there are no restroom facilities along the way.
