Madahu Scenic Area

Madahu Scenic Area

Madahu Scenic Area is a national AAAA-level tourist attraction and a national wetland park.

Madahu, also known as Madabo or Yulong Bay, is commonly referred to as Guanhu. It is located about 5 kilometers southwest of Boxing County, at the border between Boxing and Huantai counties. The lake is formed by the convergence of several downstream water bodies, including the Xiaofu River, Zhulong River, Zhenghuanggou, and Wu River. The lake stretches 7 kilometers from east to west and 4 kilometers from north to south, covering an area of nearly 30 square kilometers. It is an inland freshwater lake.

Madahu boasts enchanting scenery and has long been a naturally delightful destination for visitors. Along the lakeshore in Boxing County, there are 25 natural villages connected to one another, with lush willows and poplars, picturesque bridges, flowing streams, and quaint homes nestled in between. Together with over 20 lakeside villages in Huantai County, they form an oval-shaped scenic belt, like a mother's embracing arms gently cradling the pearl-like Madahu. Within the lake, a network of waterways spreads out, with creeks and inlets crisscrossing, dotted with islands, and fields that interlock like gnashing teeth. Verdant reeds grow densely along the dikes, while crimson lotuses stand gracefully in the water. Small fishing huts scattered across the lake are surrounded by lotus flowers and cattails, willows swaying nearby, with small bridges at their doors and boats moored by the bridgeheads—painting a scene reminiscent of the Jiangnan region.

I recall a line from Cheng Hao’s poem: “In quiet contemplation of all things, one finds contentment; seasonal delights resonate with human joy.” Observing the seasonal beauty of Madahu brings this poetic sentiment to life even more vividly.