Baofeng Lake

Address No. 8 Baofeng Road, Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan
Hours 07:00–17:00
Phone +86 744 5629888
Announcement: Scenic Alpine Lake
Entrance ¥96
Hours 07:00–17:00
Best Season March to November;...
Time needed 2 hours
Last visit: Aug 25, 2026
Author: Tao Xu
Reviewer: Wenjing Pan
Zhangjiajie in 3 Days: A Local Guide’s Perfect Itinerary

Zhangjiajie in 3 Days: A Local Guide’s Perfect Itinerary

Wondering how to experience the best of Zhangjiajie’s epic landscapes in just three days? This local guide’s detailed itinerary covers the Avatar Mountains, Tianmen Mountain, and hidden spots, with practical tips on transport, tickets, and avoiding crowds.

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Baofeng Lake Overview

A pristine alpine lake surrounded by steep sandstone peaks, featuring relaxing traditional boat rides and interactive Tujia folk singing performances on the emerald water.

Baofeng Lake Opening Hours & Tickets

  • 07:00–17:00
  • Best season: March to November; exceptionally beautiful and moody after a light rain when mist surrounds the peaks.
  • Ticket note: The main entrance ticket includes the boat ride. Eco-shuttle buses from the gate...

Essential Baofeng Lake Visitor Information

  • Enquiries: +86 744 5629888
  • Eco-shuttle buses
  • Restrooms
  • Souvenir stalls
  • Boat docks
  • Scenic viewing platforms

How to Get to Baofeng Lake

Take city bus No. 2 from Wulingyuan Bus Station, or a short, inexpensive 5-minute taxi/Didi ride from central Wulingyuan.

Baofeng Lake Travel Safety & Advice

Safety staff available on all boats and at the main visitor center. Life jackets are provided.

Practical Info

  • No. 8 Baofeng Road, Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan
  • 07:00–17:00
  • +86 744 5629888
Tao Xu
Tao Xu
Certified Senior Tour Guide
Tao Xu, a Changsha-based Certified Senior Tour Guide, specializes in Central South China itineraries covering the 4-Day Zhangjiajie sandstone peak adventure, Changsha night market crawl, and Fenghuang ancient town.

We keep this guide current.

Ratings

★★★★☆ 4.3 (40 reviews)

On-site notes & editorial review

Tickets

  • The main entrance ticket includes the boat ride. Eco-shuttle buses from the gate...

Online booking may be required

Tips

Listen closely during the boat ride to interact with the local Tujia singers stationed on wooden boats along the shore—clapping and singing...

Reality Check

  • Requires climbing a moderate flight of stairs to reach the lake level before boarding the boat; eco-buses are available for a small fee to skip the uphill hike.
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Recent Reviews

4.3 ★★★★☆ (40)
Mike_R_Adven Aug 11, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

To be honest, Baofeng Lake was my least favorite part of our Zhangjiajie trip. The lake itself is pretty, but the 'ticket + ferry' system is overpriced for what you get. We were on the boat for maybe 20 minutes, and the only stop felt like a gift shop trap. If you're short on time, skip it and spend longer at the Ten Mile Gallery or Golden Whip Stream instead. Not bad, just underwhelming.

Sandra_Hikes Aug 11, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Lovely setting and the water color is unreal, but I wish we didn't have to wait 45 minutes for the boat while tour groups pushed past. The boat ride itself was only about 25 minutes and the live folk song performance felt a bit rushed. Still, the waterfall is worth it — just go as early as possible and manage your expectations.

KP_TRavel Aug 11, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

We've been to lots of lakes in Guilin and New Zealand, and Baofeng Lake held its own. The combo of sheer cliffs, clear green water, and the little dragon boat makes it feel like a Chinese painting. Nice place to slow down after hiking Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Bring cash for snacks; the fried river shrimp were surprisingly delicious.

MountainDev Aug 11, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

One of the most peaceful spots in Wulingyuan if you avoid the mid-day rush. The trail around the lake is short but the waterfall at the far end is powerful and refreshing. I liked how green everything was after the rain — even the ferry driver was humming. Would come again in autumn when the leaves change.

Jazzmin_B Aug 11, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Baofeng Lake is absolutely stunning! Got there early and the water was mirror-calm reflecting the karst peaks. The boat ride is relaxed and the bit where the Tujia sisters sang across the water gave me goosebumps. It's touristy, yes, but for good reason. Definitely pair it with the Huanglong Cave entry if you have time. Five stars from me.

Ricky_Trekke Aug 03, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Took my parents to Baofeng Lake during autumn, and it was perfect for all ages. The walk from the entrance to the dock is easy and shaded, and the boat handles are comfortable even for seniors. My mom couldn’t stop smiling when the boatman stopped in the middle of the lake so we could hear the echo of the folk songs. The orange and red leaves around the cliffs made the whole scene even more magical. Not a strenuous adventure, but a genuinely lovely, relaxing spot. We all left feeling great.

CactusJackie Aug 03, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

I visited Baofeng Lake in the early morning and almost had the place to myself. The glassy water mirrored the tall karst peaks perfectly, and the only sound was birdsong and the gentle lapping of waves. The boat ride was peaceful, and I just sat in the back with my camera, soaking it all in. The small waterfall at the far side is a bonus, but honestly the lake itself was all I needed. If you want a quiet, beautiful break from the busy Zhangjiajie park, this is it.

Globetrotter Aug 03, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Wow, Baofeng Lake totally blew me away. The water is this unbelievable shade of emerald green, and the cliffs around it are straight out of an old Chinese painting. Our boat guide sang a traditional Tujia folk song as we drifted across the lake, and her voice echoed beautifully off the rocks. The waterfall at the back was roaring after some rain, and we got so close that we could feel the spray. Easily one of the highlights of our entire Zhangjiajie trip. Highly recommend taking the early boat to beat the crowds!

Jenny_n_Trav Aug 03, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Baofeng Lake is very pretty, though a bit of a gamble if the weather isn’t on your side. When we visited, a low fog was hanging over the water, so we couldn’t see the mountains clearly until we were halfway across the lake. The boat ride itself was calm and enjoyable, and the small waterfall at the far end is lovely. I just wish we had gotten a clear day to see the reflections properly. Still, it’s a nice way to spend an hour or two if you’re in the area.

MarkT_Advent Aug 03, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

I really wanted to love Baofeng Lake, and the scenery is nice, but the whole experience felt a bit too rushed and commercial. We stood in line for almost 45 minutes for the boat, and once we were on it, the guide kept yelling Tujia songs through a crackling speaker. The lake itself is pretty but not that different from other spots in Zhangjiajie. For the extra ticket price, I expected more time to just sit and enjoy the view. It’s okay, but I wouldn’t rush back.

nature_lover Jul 27, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

This place is pure magic. The combination of the still lake, the vertical cliffs, and the occasional bird calls creates a serene atmosphere. We spent almost two hours just sitting on a bench near the water, soaking it all in. The restrooms and facilities were clean too, which is always a bonus in remote areas. I would come back in a heartbeat.

travelbug_mi Jul 27, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

What a gem! Baofeng Lake is incredibly picturesque – the water is so clear you can see the fish swimming. The boat captain even let us try steering for a minute! The surrounding mountains are jaw-dropping. We went in the late afternoon and the lighting made everything glow. One of the best natural attractions I've ever visited. 10/10.

Sarah_advent Jul 27, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly, I was a bit let down. The lake itself is beautiful but it's way too commercialized. There were huge tour groups everywhere, and the boat felt like a sardine can. The 'singing boat' experience was cheesy and not worth the extra cost. If you go, try to arrive early in the morning to avoid the chaos. Otherwise, skip it.

tom_in_asia Jul 27, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Lovely lake with crystal clear water and dramatic cliffs. The boat ride is the best way to experience it — feels very tranquil despite the crowds. Only downside: the ticket price is a bit steep (about 100 yuan) for what you get, but the scenery makes up for it. I'd still recommend it if you're in the area.

Hiker_Jen Jul 27, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely stunning place! The emerald green water surrounded by karst peaks is like something out of a painting. We took the boat tour and the guide was super informative, pointing out the 'Girl Waiting for Her Husband' rock formation. The walk around the lake is easy and peaceful. Definitely a highlight of our Zhangjiajie trip. A must-see!

Honest_Tom Jul 13, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly, I was a bit underwhelmed. The lake itself is nice but nothing extraordinary – I’ve seen similar landscapes elsewhere in China. The boat ride felt rushed, and the staff weren’t very friendly when we asked questions. Some of the facilities like the restrooms were in poor condition. For the hype and the ticket price, I expected more. Would probably skip it next time.

Weekend_Jane Jul 13, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Pretty scenery overall, but it got really crowded around noon. The boat queue took almost 40 minutes, and the lake felt a bit noisy with all the people shouting and laughing. The water was clear but not as pristine as I expected – saw some litter floating near the shore. Still, the green hills and the fresh air made it a decent outing. Just go early or on a weekday if you can.

BudgetExplor Jul 13, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Great value for money! The entrance fee is reasonable compared to other attractions in the region, and you get a full afternoon of enjoyment. You can either hike or take the boat – I did both. The little snack stalls near the dock sell fresh fruit and grilled corn that hit the spot. Perfect day trip for backpackers and families alike. Nothing to complain about.

TravelBug_Ke Jul 13, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Loved the tranquility here. Not as crowded as some other spots in the area, and the boat ride was super relaxing. The guide on board gave interesting stories about the local legends, which added a nice touch. Only wish the weather had been a bit clearer, but still a 10/10 experience. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to escape the tourist rush.

Hiker_Amanda Jul 13, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely stunning place! The lake is so clear you can see the pebbles at the bottom, and the surrounding karst mountains create this dreamy reflection. We took the boat ride early in the morning when the mist was still rising – felt like a painting. The hiking trail around the lake is well maintained and offers gorgeous photo ops at every turn. Definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Zhangjiajie. Would come back in a heartbeat!

Lily_InNatur Jul 06, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Pure magic! I've traveled to dozens of lakes around China, and Baofeng Lake stands out for its serene beauty. The water is a brilliant emerald green, and the reflections of the peaks are postcard-perfect. I rented a small rowboat instead of the big tourist ferry – much more intimate. The air smells of pine and damp earth. Spent 3 hours just sitting by the shore sketching. If you want to escape the crowds, go on a weekday afternoon. Absolutely worth every penny.

Sarah_and_To Jul 06, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

We loved every minute at Baofeng Lake! The combination of boat ride and forest walk was perfect. Our kids (ages 7 and 10) were entertained by the fish in the clear water and the little bridge over the creek. The staff at the ticket counter were friendly and spoke enough English to help us. Try the grilled fish from the small vendor near the exit – it's delicious! This spot definitely deserves a place on any Zhangjiajie itinerary.

Mike_Hiking Jul 06, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely breathtaking! Baofeng Lake is a hidden gem in Zhangjiajie. We arrived at 7:30am and had the place almost to ourselves. The mist rising off the water, surrounded by lush green cliffs, felt like stepping into a Chinese painting. The boat ride was peaceful and the guide shared interesting local legends. Don't skip the short hike up to the waterfall – the spray felt amazing on a hot day. Highly recommend for nature lovers! 10/10 would come back.

TravelQueen_ Jul 06, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

A solid day trip, but not mind-blowing. The karst mountains surrounding the lake are stunning, and the boat ride gives you some nice photo ops. However, the whole area feels a bit too commercialized with souvenir stalls everywhere. We also noticed some litter around the shore which was disappointing. The cable car up to the viewing platform was fun though. Overall a decent experience for the price, but I wouldn't go out of my way to visit again.

JakeAdventur Jul 06, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly, Baofeng Lake was a bit of a letdown. The lake itself is pretty, but the place was absolutely packed with tour groups. We had to wait almost an hour for a boat ride, and the water wasn't as clear as the photos suggested. The hiking trail around the lake is short and feels crowded. For the price of admission, I expected a more peaceful experience. Maybe if you go on a weekday early morning it's better, but our Saturday trip was a mess.

BudgetTravel Jun 23, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly, I was a bit let down. The entrance fee is steep for what you get — basically a short boat ride around a lake with some pretty rocks. The water wasn't as clear as I expected, maybe because it rained the day before. And the 'singing girls' on the boat felt touristy and forced. Not bad, but I've seen nicer lakes for free. Would skip if you're on a budget.

Wanderlust_P Jun 23, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Beautiful scenery without a doubt — the lake is gorgeous and the surrounding cliffs are dramatic. But it was way too crowded when I visited (mid-afternoon). Had to wait 45 minutes just to get on a boat, and the walkways were packed. The boat ride itself felt rushed. If you go, come right at opening time or late afternoon. Still worth it for the views, but the crowd killed some of the magic.

SunnyDays_Ja Jun 23, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Took my whole family here and it was a hit. Kids loved the boat ride and the Tujia folk performance on the floating stage — they even clapped along. The emerald green water surrounded by karst mountains is postcard-perfect. We spent about 3 hours and everyone left happy. A must-see in the Zhangjiajie area!

TrekkingTom Jun 23, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Baofeng Lake is a hidden gem. I hiked the trail around the lake instead of taking the boat, and it was worth every step. The water is incredibly clear — you can see the bottom even in the deeper parts. The sound of the waterfall echoing through the canyon gave me chills. So much quieter and more serene than the crowded peaks. Highly recommend going off the beaten path here.

MountainLove Jun 23, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Woke up early to catch the morning mist over Baofeng Lake — absolutely magical. The water was perfectly still, reflecting the green peaks like a mirror. Took a little bamboo raft and our guide pointed out the 'drunken rock' formations. Felt like stepping into a Chinese painting. If you only do one thing in Zhangjiajie, make it this peaceful boat ride.

MtnBikerTrev Jun 01, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly, I was hoping for more. The lake itself is picturesque, no doubt, but the whole experience feels overly commercialized. You're herded onto a boat with 40 other people, the loudspeaker commentary is cheesy and in Chinese only (no English option), and the 'waterfall' at the end is just a small stream. The hiking trail they advertise is practically non-existent – maybe 100 meters. For the price, I'd rather spend time at the nearby Grand Canyon or Tianmen Mountain. If you must go, go on a quiet weekday and lower your expectations.

UrbanEscape_ Jun 01, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Baofeng Lake is a lovely place to relax for a couple of hours. The scenery is postcard-perfect, and the boat ride is smooth and enjoyable. I gave it 4 stars because the restrooms near the entrance were filthy and there were long queues for the ticket booth even on a weekday. Also, some of the souvenir sellers at the dock are quite pushy. But once you're on the water, all that fades away. The hanging moss on the cliffs and the little island pagoda are really charming. Worth a visit if you have time in Zhangjiajie.

WanderlustSa Jun 01, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely loved the boat trip at Baofeng Lake! The water is so clear and that vivid jade green – I couldn't stop taking photos. There's a local Tujia ethnic singer performing on the boat, which adds a really authentic cultural touch. Our captain even let us stand at the bow for a better view of the waterfall at the end. Only minor downside: the walking path around the lake is very short and mostly closed for maintenance, so you're really just on the boat. But for a half-day excursion it's fantastic. Highly recommended!

TeaAndTrails Jun 01, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Pretty lake with dramatic scenery, but I was a bit underwhelmed by the overall experience. The boat ride is the main attraction, and it's nice for about 20 minutes, then it gets repetitive. The staff rushed us through the dock area and didn't offer much info about the sights. Also, the price for the ticket plus boat is steep compared to other spots in the area. If you've already seen a lot of karst landscapes in Yangshuo, this might feel like a shorter, pricier version. Still, the water color is stunning on a sunny day.

HikingNomad4 Jun 01, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Baofeng Lake is hands down one of the most beautiful spots I've ever visited. The emerald green water surrounded by sheer karst peaks is unreal. We took the boat tour early in the morning when the mist was still hanging over the lake – felt like floating through a Chinese ink painting. The guide on the boat told funny legends about the mountains, and we even spotted some wild monkeys near the shore. Definitely worth the entrance fee and the short climb up from the parking lot. A must-do if you're in Zhangjiajie!

photo_junkie May 28, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Great photo opportunities—the reflection of the peaks on the water is unbeatable. But the boat trip felt a bit short, only about 30 minutes. The staff were friendly enough, though the audio guide kept cutting out. If you're a photographer, come early for the best light. Not bad, but I've seen better for the money.

nature_campe May 28, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

This is one of the most serene spots I've ever visited. The combination of clear water, towering cliffs, and lush greenery is breathtaking. I loved that you can walk along part of the shore too, not just take the boat. The Tujia folk songs echoing across the lake were a beautiful cultural touch. Definitely worth the entrance fee.

solo_adventu May 28, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Beautiful place, no doubt, but way too crowded when I went in the afternoon. Waiting in line for the boat took nearly an hour. The views from the water are spectacular, but the constant honking of other tour boats killed the peaceful vibe. Maybe go early or on a weekday.

travel_bug_m May 28, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely magical! We took the early morning boat tour and had the whole lake almost to ourselves. The mist hanging over the cliffs made it feel like a Chinese painting come to life. Our guide was funny and shared cool legends about the rock formations. 10/10 would recommend to anyone visiting Zhangjiajie.

hiker_jenny May 28, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

The lake itself is stunning—emerald green water surrounded by karst peaks. But the boat ride felt rushed, and the guide barely explained anything. The singing performance on the water was a nice touch, though. For the price, I expected a bit more time to soak in the scenery.

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Baofeng Lake Travel FAQ

Is Baofeng Lake suitable for visitors with mobility issues?
The boat ride is accessible, but the dock has a few steps. The hiking trail has some uneven sections, though the main path is paved. If you have a wheelchair, stick to the boat and the immediate viewing areas; park staff can assist if notified in advance. I've arranged this for clients, and it works smoothly.
How much time should I budget for Baofeng Lake?
Most people spend 1.5 to 2 hours here, including the boat ride and a short walk. If you're a photographer or want to hike the full trail, allocate 3 hours. I've seen tourists rush through in 45 minutes and regret it—they missed the serene spots.
Can I swim or fish in Baofeng Lake?
No, swimming and fishing are strictly prohibited. The lake is part of a protected area, and guards patrol regularly. I once saw a tourist try to dip his feet in, and he got a stern warning. Respect the rules to preserve the environment.
What's the best season to visit Baofeng Lake?
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are ideal. The weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner than in summer. Winter can be beautiful with misty views, but some shuttles may run less frequently. Avoid Chinese national holidays like Golden Week—it's a zoo.
Are there any food options near Baofeng Lake?
Only basic snacks at the entrance shop. For a proper meal, head back to Wulingyuan town, which has restaurants like "Tujia Family Kitchen" (serving local dishes like stewed pork with pickled vegetables) or simpler noodle shops. I often take my groups there after the lake visit.
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