Hailin Lotus Lake

Hailin Lotus Lake

Hailin Lotus Lake

Lotus Lake is situated in the northeastern part of Hailin City, Heilongjiang Province. It is a large artificial lake created after the completion of the key national project — the Lotus Hydropower Station — and has been listed as a provincial-level scenic area and a provincial-level nature reserve in Heilongjiang. The provincial-level Lotus Lake Scenic Area lies on the extension of the Changbai Mountain Range, on the eastern foothills of the Zhangguangcai Mountains, in the middle and lower reaches of the Mudan River basin. It features a long, narrow water surface formed by the national investment in the construction of the Lotus Lake Hydropower Station, which dammed 99.9 kilometers of the Mudan River. The lake covers an area of 133 square kilometers, with an average depth of 40 meters, and the entire scenic area spans a controlled area of 1,900 square kilometers.

The Lotus Lake Scenic Area is characterized by its forests, lakes, islands, and steep cliffs and rock faces. The area includes three major canyons, four major lake bays, five scenic zones, seven major islands, and more than thirty main attractions. The hundred-mile-long lake resembles a coiled dragon lying amidst towering mountains and ridges. The lakeshores are lined with overlapping peaks, steep cliffs, and dense forests. Natural wonders such as Eagle Beak Peak and Turtle Rock add a touch of magic and charm to the landscape. The serene mountain lake mirrors the surrounding peaks, with shimmering ripples and mountain reflections creating a stunning and vibrant tapestry of natural beauty.

Lotus Lake boasts distinct and picturesque scenery in all four seasons. In spring, the hills turn yellowish-green, and myriad wildflowers dot the landscape, creating a delightful scene. In summer, the harmonious blend of mountains and waters, along with the lush green forests, brings vitality — making it an ideal destination for summer retreats and leisure. In autumn, the frost-covered mountains and vibrant forests present a riot of colors, while the season offers both mountain delicacies and freshwater fish, making it perfect for travel and gastronomy. In winter, the snowy plains and silver landscapes transform the area into a prime spot for enjoying the northern scenery and winter activities. The area is rich in diverse vegetation, including a wide variety of wild plants such as trees, shrubs, vines, and grasses. Common tree species include pine, linden, oak, birch, and Manchurian ash, while the area also grows wild medicinal herbs such as ginseng, astragalus, and schisandra. It produces mountain delicacies and wild fruits like bracken, fiddlehead ferns, and pine nuts. The vast and majestic mountains are also home to a wealth of wildlife, including precious animals like tigers, leopards, martens, otters, roe deer, bears, deer, and river deer, as well as birds such as egrets, pheasants, and doves.

The world’s largest breeding base for Siberian tigers — the Hengdaohezi Wildlife Breeding Center — is home to over 70 tigers. Observing these majestic beasts in the forest is a rare experience, bringing you up close to the awe-inspiring power of the “king of beasts.” The provincial-level protected bird — the grey heron — has a population of over 4,000 and can be seen gracefully soaring above the green mountains and blue waters. The lake area has a long history and profound cultural heritage. Landmarks mentioned in the famous novel *Tracks in the Snowy Forest* by author Qu Bo — such as Tiger Mountain, the River God Temple, the Taoist Temple, Guokui Mountain, Naitou Mountain, and Monkey Rock — are all located within the scenic area.

Sites associated with the legendary hero Yang Zirong and other anti-bandit campaigns can be found in areas like Tiger Mountain and Jiapi Gully, along with remnants of local bandit activities. Historical and cultural relics such as the prehistoric Qunli Petroglyphs from the Shang and Zhou dynasties, the ancient Goguryeo wells from the Bohai Kingdom, the ancient Jiangdong tombs from the Jin dynasty, and the Qing dynasty beacon towers still remain. The beautiful and tranquil Lotus Lake awaits you, and the warm and hospitable people of Hailin extend their welcome.

Address: Lotus Lake Scenic Area, Hailin City, Mudanjiang