Mandarin Duck Lake (Yuanyang Lake)

鸳鸯湖

A highland lake made of two connected lakes among karst peaks, where paired 'mandarin duck trees' grow in the water, and boats wind through maze-like inlets.

Mandarin Duck Lake lies in the western section of Xiaoqikong Scenic Area. It consists of two connected lakes with a water surface of about 130,000 square metres and a depth of about 30 metres. It takes its name from a pair of intertwined camphor and red maple trees in the lake, known as the 'mandarin duck trees'. The water is deep green, surrounded by dense karst forest and peaks, and trees and islands divide the surface into many winding inlets and channels, like a 'water maze'. The best way to explore is by boat. Rowboats and pedal boats can be rented at the lakeside pier for about 30–60 yuan per boat per hour, seating two to four people. Once you paddle into the inlets, there are only tree shadows and birdsong, the quietest stretch of Xiaoqikong. You can also walk the wooden boardwalk around the lake (about 40 minutes) to see the mandarin duck trees and their reflections. Mandarin Duck Lake is included in the Xiaoqikong ticket, but boating costs extra. Sightseeing buses stop at the Mandarin Duck Lake stop, and it is about a 20-minute walk from Wolong Pool. Tips: visit Wolong Pool from the west gate, then walk to Mandarin Duck Lake for a one-hour boat ride, and take the sightseeing bus on to the Water Forest. In peak season boats have queues, so go in the morning. Notes: life jackets must be worn when boating; the lake is deep and swimming is not allowed; the inlets are numerous and easy to get lost in, so don't row too far and return by the time the pier indicates; boating is prohibited during thunderstorms; in autumn and winter it gets cold by the lake, so bring a jacket; there are mosquitoes by the lake, so bring repellent.

Mandarin Duck Lake (Yuanyang Lake)

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