Hengshui Lake Tourist Area is located in Hengshui City, Hebei Province. It is a national 5A-level Tourist Area, a national ecological tourism demonstration area, and a national water conservancy scenic area. The planned area of the scenic area is 26.4 square kilometers, the lake area is 75 square kilometers, and the water storage capacity is 188 million cubic meters.
The scenic area has distinct characteristics and owns a complete inland wetland ecosystem maintaining water areas, swamps, tidal flats, meadows, and woodlands, which is the only one in the inland area of North China. It is a gathering place for wild animals and plants in the North Temperate Zone. 594 species of plants, 757 species of insects, 45 species of fish, etc., have been discovered here, and there are as many as 336 species of birds, including 10 species of national first-class protected birds such as red-crowned cranes, white cranes, and black storks, and 54 species of national second-class protected birds, making it a veritable "Paradise for Birds". The scenic area also has characteristic islands such as Sansheng Island and Meihua Island, as well as cultural landscapes such as the Ji Culture Museum, where nature and culture blend to form unique tourism resources.
History and Culture
Hengshui Lake has a long history and profound cultural heritage. According to textual research, Hengshui Lake was formed in the Han Dynasty, scoured by the diversion of ancient rivers such as the Yellow River and Zhang River. Through the changes of time, it gradually formed the current lake wetland landscape.
In the long history, the area of Hengshui Lake has given birth to rich cultures. It was once an important part of ancient Jizhou, carrying a deep heritage of Yan-Zhao culture. The villages by the lake have retained many traditional folk customs, such as fishing culture and farming culture, showing the wisdom of local residents living in harmony with nature. In addition, many historical sites have been found in the scenic area, providing important materials for the study of ancient geography and culture.
Main Attractions
Sansheng Island
Sansheng Island is an ecological island in Hengshui Lake, covering an area of about 150 mu. The island is rich in vegetation and inhabited by various birds, making it an ideal place for bird watchers. There are bird-watching platforms and wooden boardwalks on the island, allowing visitors to feel the charm of wetland ecology up close and experience the harmonious coexistence of man and nature.
Meihua Island
Meihua Island is named after its shape like a plum blossom, covering an area of about 80 mu. A large number of plum trees are planted on the island. When plum blossoms bloom in spring, the fragrance is everywhere and the scenery is pleasant. In addition, there are leisure areas and science popularization display areas on the island, where visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and learn about the ecological knowledge of Hengshui Lake at the same time.
Ji Culture Museum
Ji Culture Museum is located in Hengshui Lake Scenic Area, with a construction area of about 3,000 square meters. The museum displays a large number of cultural relics and exhibits related to Jizhou culture, systematically showing the historical evolution, folk customs, and cultural achievements of Hengshui area, and is an important window to understand Ji culture.
Delicacies
Hengshui Lake Roasted Duck Eggs
Hengshui Lake roasted duck eggs are local special delicacies, made from duck eggs produced by free-range ducks in the lake area through unique craftsmanship. The shell of the duck egg is dark red, the egg white is delicate, the yolk is oily, and the taste is moderately salty and fragrant, which is a must-try delicacy for visitors.
Gucheng Smoked Meat
Gucheng smoked meat is a traditional food around Hengshui, with a history of more than 100 years. It is made of high-quality pork through multiple processes such as pickling, steaming, and smoking. The meat is tender and delicious, mellow in taste, fat but not greasy, and is a good product for meals and drinks.
Raoyang Tofu Pudding
Raoyang tofu pudding is a famous snack in Hengshui area, known for its delicate tofu pudding and unique brine. The tofu pudding is smooth and tender, the brine is made from a variety of ingredients, and the taste is delicious. It tastes better with fried dough sticks or sesame seed cakes.
Tickets
Through ticket (including cruise ship): 158 yuan/person.
You can search for the official public account "衡水湖旅游景区" in WeChat to get the latest information or purchase tickets online.
Opening Hours
The scenic area is open throughout the year. The opening hours are 8:00-18:00 (summer) and 8:30-17:30 (winter) every day. The opening hours of some attractions in the scenic area may be slightly adjusted, subject to the daily announcement of the scenic area.
Tour Route
Recommended one-day tour route: After arriving at the scenic area in the morning, first visit the Ji Culture Museum to understand the history and culture of Hengshui area; then take a cruise to tour Hengshui Lake and enjoy the lake view, and you can board Sansheng Island to watch birds on the way; have lunch near the scenic area and taste local special delicacies; go to Meihua Island in the afternoon, and then go to the Wetland Science Museum to learn ecological knowledge; finally walk by the lake and feel the tranquility and beauty of the wetland.
Transportation
- Self-driving: Starting from Hengshui urban area, drive south along Binhu Avenue for about 20 kilometers to reach the scenic area, with clear road signs along the way.
- Bus: Take bus No. 18 in Hengshui urban area, which can directly reach the gate of Hengshui Lake Scenic Area.
- Taxi: Take a taxi from Hengshui Railway Station or Bus Station to the scenic area, and the fare is about 30-40 yuan.
Must-visit Attractions
- Sansheng Island: An ecological island in Hengshui Lake, covering an area of about 150 mu. It is inhabited by various birds and is equipped with bird-watching platforms and wooden boardwalks, making it an excellent place for bird watching.
- Main Lake Area of Hengshui Lake: The lake area is 75 square kilometers. Take a cruise to enjoy the lake view and feel the vastness and beauty of wetland ecology.
- Ji Culture Museum: With a construction area of about 3,000 square meters, it systematically displays the historical evolution and folk customs of Jizhou culture, with rich cultural connotations.
Tour Tips
- It is recommended to play for 1-2 days to fully experience the natural and cultural charm of Hengshui Lake.
- Spring and autumn are the best tourist seasons. In spring, plum blossoms on Meihua Island are in full bloom, and in autumn, migratory birds migrate, with pleasant scenery.
- Carry equipment such as telescopes and cameras to facilitate bird watching and taking beautiful photos.
- Part of the area in the scenic area is a wetland ecological protection area. Please follow the regulations and do not damage vegetation or disturb birds at will when playing.
Notes
- Smoking and littering are prohibited in the scenic area. Keep the environment clean.
- When taking a cruise, wear a life jacket and follow the instructions of the staff to ensure safety.
- Pay attention to sun protection in summer and carry sun hats, sunscreen and other items; keep warm in winter.
- Respect local customs and play civilizedly.
- If you need to camp or carry out other activities in the scenic area, you need to apply to the scenic area management department in advance.