Chinese Name: 丽江清溪水库
English Name: Qingxi Reservior in Lijiang
Chinese Pinying: Li Jiang Qing Xi Shui Ku
Location: Located in the northern suburb of Lijiang City

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🌟 Highlights at a Glance

Stunning Reflections

On clear days, the sapphire-blue lake mirrors the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山) in its entirety. Arrive 15 minutes before sunrise to capture the magical “Golden Mountain at Dawn” phenomenon.
In autumn and winter, flocks of red-billed gulls rest on the water’s surface, adding vitality and charm to the tranquil setting.

A Hidden Gem with Free Access

This pristine lake is open all day and completely free of charge. With very few visitors, it offers the perfect escape into nature. (Note: Swimming is strictly prohibited as it is a drinking water source.)

Nature’s Light Show

At midday, sunlight casts a natural labyrinth of shadows over the lake. In the evening, pink and purple clouds reflect vividly on the water. On full moon nights, you can photograph the ethereal “moon scooped from the lake” illusion.

📍 Travel Tips

How to Get There

By Bus

• From Zhongyi Market (忠义市场) in Lijiang Old Town, take Bus 3 to Qingxi Reservoir (清溪水库) stop

• Or take Bus 4 or Bus 16 to Lijiang No.1 High School (古城区一中), then walk 6 minutes

By Taxi

Set your destination to “Qingxi Reservoir North Gate (清溪水库北门)”

• Ride takes about 10 minutes and costs approx. 15 RMB

• ⚠️ Beware of dishonest drivers taking longer routes to overcharge

Best Visiting Times

• Before 8:00 AM: Enjoy misty, fairyland-like solitude

• Between 9:00–11:00 AM: Ideal window to capture mirror-like mountain reflections

• 6:00 PM: Catch the sunset as the snowcapped peak fades into romantic pink and purple hues

📸 Best Photo Spots

• End of the Reservoir Dam: Full panoramic view of the snow mountain with leading water perspective—use wide-angle lens

• Southeast Reeds Corner: Backlit shots for dreamy, glowing-hair portraits

• Redwood Boardwalk (红杉木栈道): During fall and winter, fiery foliage paints a scene straight out of an oil painting

⚠️ Safety & Preparation

Safety Notes

• Water depth reaches 20 meters, and there are no railings—children should stay well away from the shoreline

• During the rainy season (June–August), parts of the trail may be submerged—wear waterproof shoes

Recommended Gear

• High-altitude UV protection: sunglasses, sunscreen, windproof jacket

• Uneven gravel paths: wear non-slip athletic shoes

Environmental Etiquette

• No littering 🚯

• No open fires 🔥

• No swimming allowed 🏊

🎮 Hidden Experiences

• Take a clockwise 2.8 km walk (approx. 40 minutes) around the lake to explore wetlands, reeds, and wild birds

• Enjoy a picnic under the lone tree on the eastern meadow, with a 180° view of the snow mountain

• Listen to local villagers singing traditional folk duets while washing clothes, and immerse yourself in authentic mountain culture