Zhaosu Jade Lake Scenic Area is located in Aheya Zigou, Zhaosu County, Yili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. It is a national 4A-level tourist attraction. The scenic area covers an area of approximately 50,000 square meters. It is an alpine lake with an altitude of about 2,200 meters, formed by the convergence of meltwater from the Tianshan Mountains. Its characteristic lies in the lake water showing different colors due to factors such as light, season, and weather, earning it the reputation of "Color-Changing Lake". For example, it appears grayish-blue in May, light green or blue in June, and milky white with a slight blue-green tint in July. The scenic area features buildings such as Star Platform Café, Forest Gate Music Restaurant, and a mountaintop viewing platform.
Historical Culture
The area where Zhaosu Jade Lake is located has a long history and culture. It is the hometown of Zhaosu Heavenly Horses and has a profound nomadic cultural heritage. In addition, the Jade Lake is located at the hub of the Silk Road and was once an important commercial station on the Silk Road, playing a significant role in ancient trade and cultural exchanges.
Main Attractions
Jade Lake
Jade Lake is the core attraction of the scenic area. The lake water is clear and changes colors, with a winding shoreline extending into the distance, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and grasslands, presenting a magnificent landscape.
Star Platform Café
It provides a place for tourists to rest and dine, where they can enjoy coffee while admiring the beautiful scenery of Jade Lake.
Forest Gate Music Restaurant
Combining music and food, it allows tourists to experience the atmosphere of music while enjoying delicious food, adding fun to the trip.
Mountaintop Viewing Platform
It is the best place to overlook the panoramic view of Jade Lake. Standing on the platform, tourists can have a full view of Jade Lake and the surrounding snow-capped mountains and grasslands.
Food
Huimin Ma Xu Braised Chicken with Steamed Bread
A local specialty, the chicken is tender, and the steamed bread absorbs the aroma of the chicken soup, with a rich taste and delicious flavor.
May Elaeagnus Flower Pilaf
Made when elaeagnus flowers bloom in May, the pilaf incorporates the fragrance of elaeagnus flowers. The rice is distinct and paired with ingredients such as lamb, offering a fragrant and unique flavor.
Tickets
The ticket price is 30 yuan per person, the shuttle bus is 30 yuan per person, and the self-driving tour is 100 yuan.
You can search for the official WeChat public account of the scenic area, "玉湖景区智慧服务", to get the latest updates or purchase tickets online.
Opening Hours
Open from 10:00 to 19:00 throughout the year.
Itinerary
Tourists can first climb the mountaintop viewing platform along the wooden plank road to overlook the entire Jade Lake; then take a stroll by the lake to admire the clear blue water and the reflection of the snow-capped mountains; if time permits, they can also go deep into the surrounding grasslands for hiking or horseback riding to experience pastoral life.
Transportation
- Self-driving: Start from Zhaosu County, navigate to "Gezhouba Jade Lake Scenic Area", and drive along County Road 758, which takes about 50 minutes.
- Chartered Car: You can find regular chartered car services in Zhaosu County to facilitate free itinerary arrangements.
Must-Visit Attractions
- Jade Lake: A color-changing lake with magnificent scenery, featuring different views in each season.
- Mountaintop Viewing Platform: Offers a broad view, allowing you to take in the scenery of Jade Lake and the surrounding snow-capped mountains and grasslands.
Travel Tips
- Bring warm clothing, as the temperature difference between morning and evening in mountainous areas is large even in summer.
- Prepare sunscreen, as the sunshine is strong in Xinjiang.
- If you plan to hike or ride horses, it is recommended to wear comfortable sports shoes or boots.
- You can choose to stay overnight in a homestay within the scenic area to experience the local quiet night and beautiful starry sky.
Notes
- Protect the environment, do not litter, and preserve the natural landscape.
- Pay attention to safety during activities such as hiking or horseback riding, and follow the instructions of guides or scenic area staff.
- Respect local customs and ethnic cultures.