Five Connected Lakes

Wudalianchi

Wudalianchi is a national scenic area, a National AAAAA-level tourist attraction, a national geopark, a national nature reserve, and a science education base.

Wudalianchi City in northwestern Heilongjiang Province is a famous volcanic tourist destination in China. Between 1719 and 1721, volcanic eruptions blocked the original river channels, forming five interconnected lava-dammed lakes. The area features uniquely spectacular volcanic scenery, rich and intact volcanic landforms, and highly curative mineral springs known as "holy water." It is a comprehensive natural scenic area that combines sightseeing, convalescence, and scientific research. In addition to the five barrier lakes, Wudalianchi also has many ancient and modern volcanoes. There are a total of 14 medium and recently formed volcanoes, among which Laoheishan (Old Black Mountain) and Huoshao Mountain are the youngest but largest in scale and most picturesque, making them the prime scenic spots in Wudalianchi. Laoheishan features towering terrain, lush vegetation, and a relative elevation difference of 166 meters, making it the highest of the 14 volcanoes.

Ticket Prices: General admission ticket 195 RMB, includes all scenic spots within the area; Volcanic Wonders Scenic Area 60 RMB; Longmen Stone Village 40 RMB; South Drinking Spring Scenic Area 5 RMB; North Drinking Spring Scenic Area 15 RMB; Ice Cave 15 RMB; Snow Cave 15 RMB.

Opening Hours: 7:00 – 17:00

Address: Heihe City, Heilongjiang Province.

Best Travel Time: Early June – Late September

The climate in Heihe is characterized by long winters and short summers, with low temperatures and cold humidity. The annual average temperature is around 0°C, with January being the coldest month at an average temperature of -24°C (Note: original says -42°C, likely typo); July is the hottest, averaging 21°C, with highs reaching up to 38.2°C.

Local Tourist Features of Wudalianchi

The water temperature of the lakes in Wudalianchi rises above 10°C in mid-May and drops below 10°C in late September, with the highest water temperature occurring in July (20–26°C). There are a total of 10 families and 39 species of fish in Wudalianchi. Common types include crucian carp, carp, “meal” fish (possibly “食” referring to food fish such as “餐鱼” or similar), silver carp, bighead carp, and grass carp. The distribution of species is similar across the lakes, but population sizes vary significantly. Lake Three currently has the most silver carp due to stocking, followed by crucian carp, Pseudorasbora parva, and carp; Lake Five has the most carp; and Lakes One, Two, and Four have the most crucian carp. There are a total of 10 families and 39 species, with common ones including crucian carp, carp, and...

Transportation and Access: From Harbin Railway Station, the Longyun Bus Terminal offers daily direct buses to Wudalianchi Scenic Area, with a one-way trip taking about 5 hours. Buses from Wudalianchi back to Harbin’s Longyun Bus Terminal run daily, but it’s best to book tickets one day in advance. Visitors can also take a train from Harbin to Beian (about 6 hours), then transfer to a bus to reach Wudalianchi.

Wudalianchi Travel Tips

When engaging in forest tourism, be mindful of safety. Avoid venturing deep into dense forests alone; travel in groups and follow guides. Dress in long-sleeved shirts and pants due to the complex conditions in the forest. Carrying basic medicine is also essential.

Food: Predominantly featuring Northeastern Chinese cuisine, with influences from various major culinary styles and a presence of Russian flavors. Ingredients mainly consist of locally unique mountain delicacies, seafood, and poultry — all natural and green foods rich in nutrients. The overall characteristics are: use of local ingredients, selection of rare and quality materials; delicate preparation, wide variety; savory and rich flavors, oily and deeply colored dishes; large portions, abundant and affordable. Cooking methods mainly include boiling, stewing, blanching, stir-frying, braising, raw mixing, and cold mixing, with strengths in “uniqueness, freshness, clarity, and nourishment.”

Accommodation: All sanatoriums here offer very affordable lodging, with standard four-person rooms costing about 15 RMB per bed per day. For those wishing to stay longer for convalescence, you can also stay with local residents for about 5 RMB per person per day. If interested, you may also borrow cooking utensils from the host to prepare your own meals.

Shopping: Specialties of Wudalianchi City include Wudalianchi Mineral Water. Local handicrafts include volcanic rock potted plants. The area is also known for producing crucian carp and carp. Additionally, Pharmaceutical Spring Liquor is another famous local product.

Further Reading:

· First Batch of National Scenic Areas

Lake Three: White Dragon Lake

Lake Four: Crane Calling Lake

Lake Five: Ruyi Lake

Lake One: Lotus Lake

Lake Two: Yanshan Lake