Dongchang Lake
东昌湖
A large in-town lake encircling the old city of Liaocheng, covering about 6 square km. With its pleasure boats, lakeside greenway and islet, it forms the 'Jiangbei Water City.'
Dongchang Lake began as a moat formed by earth dug out when the city walls were built in the Song dynasty. Its water surface covers about 6.3 square km, making it one of the largest urban lakes in northern China. It wraps around the square old city of Liaocheng and connects to the ancient Grand Canal, creating the saying 'a city within a lake, and a lake within a city.' Greenways and several parks line the shore for cycling and walking. You can also take a boat tour to view Guangyue Tower and the old city, and the nightly light show is lively. Entry to the lake area is free. Boat fares follow the prices posted at the piers. Together with the old city and Guangyue Tower, it forms a national 5A-level scenic area.
Opening hours
All day (boats about 09:00–21:00)