Baiyangdian Scenic Area

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Spot Introduction

Baiyangdian is the largest freshwater lake in North China, covering a total area of 366 square kilometers and consisting of 143 lakes of various sizes. With its intertwined waterways and vast reed marshes, it is known as the “Pearl of North China”. The scenic area is famous for its unique lake scenery, water town culture, and revolutionary history.

Located in the Haihe River basin, Baiyangdian serves as an important ecological barrier for the North China Plain. The vast water area has an average depth of 2-3 meters, with the deepest point reaching 6 meters. More than 3,700 ditches and canals crisscross the area, connecting the 143 lakes and forming a unique water network system. Every summer, 120,000 mu of lotus flowers bloom, complementing the endless reed marshes and creating a magnificent waterscape.

As a national nature reserve, Baiyangdian boasts rich biodiversity. It is home to over 200 species of birds, including nationally protected animals such as the Great Bustard and White-naped Crane. The area also harbors 47 species of aquatic plants, with reeds and lotus being the most renowned. Every winter, tens of thousands of migratory birds overwinter here, making Baiyangdian a significant bird habitat in North China.

Apart from its natural beauty, Baiyangdian is steeped in historical and cultural heritage. It was once a major activity area for the Yanling team during the Anti-Japanese War, leaving many heroic and moving revolutionary stories. The water town dwellings, fishing culture, traditional handicrafts, and more, all exhibit the unique cultural characteristics of the water town. In recent years, with the construction of the Xiong’an New Area, the ecological protection and cultural inheritance of Baiyangdian have been further strengthened.

Spot Introduction

The scenic area also features multiple science education bases, regularly conducting themed educational activities such as wetland conservation and ecological restoration. Visitors can not only admire the natural scenery but also gain a deeper understanding of the wetland ecosystem and experience the folk culture of the water town. As a national 5A-level tourist attraction, Baiyangdian has become an important window showcasing the culture of water towns in North China and developing eco-tourism.

Must-visit Attractions

  1. Lotus Grand View Garden

    • Lotus pond landscape
    • Viewing platform
    • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes

  2. Bird Watching Area

    • Migratory bird habitat
    • Bird watching tower
    • Suggested visiting time: 45 minutes

  3. Water Tourism Area

    • Traditional rowing boat
    • Water town scenery
    • Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes

  4. Homes on the Lake

    • Water town houses
    • Fishing culture
    • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes

Visiting Suggestions

  1. Best Touring Route

    • Visitor center → Lotus Grand View Garden → Water tour → Bird Watching Area → Homes on the Lake
    • Suggested combination of waterway and land route

  2. Visiting Schedule

    • Bird watching in the morning
    • Lotus appreciation at noon
    • Boat ride in the evening

  3. Practical Tips

    • Prevent insect bites
    • Bring a sun hat
    • Prepare rain gear

Transportation Guide

  • High-speed rail: Baiyangdian Station
  • Public transportation: Take a shuttle bus from Anxin County
  • Self-drive: Navigate to Baiyangdian Scenic Area
  • Tourist bus: Direct access from Beijing, Tianjin, and other places
  1. Baiyangdian Fish Feast
  2. Lotus Leaf Rice in the Lake Area
  3. Water Town Farmhouse Cuisine
  4. Specialty Snacks

Special Reminders

  1. Pay attention to water safety
  2. Sun protection and insect prevention
  3. Protect the ecological environment
  4. Boat tickets need to be purchased separately
  5. Bring a camera
  6. Suggest visiting during off-peak hours
  7. Suitable for family trips
  8. Prepare cash.