Shuixi Lake

　　Shuixi Lake is situated across four counties in Bijie Prefecture, Guizhou Province—Dafang, Qianxi, Zhijin, and Nayong. With a vast reservoir surface area of 80.54 square kilometers, the core zone and development-protected area cover 150 square kilometers. The Shuixi Lake reservoir region features a subtropical plateau monsoon climate, with an average annual temperature of 14 degrees Celsius, making it a natural summer retreat. Originally formed as a reservoir due to the construction of the Hongjiadu Hydropower Station dam, Shuixi Lake serves as the head reservoir of the upper reaches of the Wu River. The expansive, emerald-green waters of Shuixi Lake hold the geographical advantage of being at the heartland of the birthplace of Shuixi culture. Leveraging its vast highland lake, lush karst ecology, pristine natural environment, and rich ethnic culture and customs, the area aligns with provincial and regional goals to cultivate tourism as a follow-up pillar industry. This initiative promotes the optimization and integration of Bijie’s tourism industry structure and functions, transitioning tourism offerings from single-focus sightseeing to multifunctional, in-depth leisure and resort experiences. Through systematic development and expansion, the area has evolved into a comprehensive tourism destination primarily featuring multi-ethnic Shuixi cultural experiences, eco-tours, rural countryside exploration, and vacation leisure. It also offers supplementary activities such as hydropower science education tours and water-based recreation.

　　The scenery of Shuixi Lake is breathtaking. As the cruise boat glides along, the towering mountains along the shores and the islands dotting the lake come vividly into view. Each presents its own unique posture and charm, lifelike and exquisitely rendered—some resembling an old man fishing, others a meditating monk; some a bold singer, others a reflective philosopher; some a graceful youth, others a maiden lost in spring slumber; some a couple strolling under the moonlight, others a beauty gazing at her reflection by the water... Some stand, some walk, some run—all imbued with an indescribable magic. Upon closer appreciation, one’s spirit broadens and swells with emotion, as the lake and mountain vistas are adorned with indescribable beauty. Shuixi Lake lies like a massive green silk tapestry spread out beneath blue skies and white clouds, graceful and elegant. When the wind is still, its surface lies flat as a plain, pristine and spotless; when the wind stirs, waves shimmer endlessly, rippling with green energy, inviting you to ride the surf. Here, “the emerald waters reflect beautiful dreams.” Being there feels like standing in a “sea amidst the mountains.”

　　From afar, Shuixi Lake resembles a gigantic green carpet. The color of the lake gradually shifts with distance: dark green, deep green, light green… Even more magical is how the lake water changes hues throughout the day, depending on the angle and intensity of sunlight, displaying several distinct scenic shades. Many are deeply moved by these varying scenes, seeing in them symbols of life’s pursuits. At dawn, the lake glows golden, symbolizing wealth; at noon, it shimmers like jade, symbolizing preciousness; at dusk, it wears a touch of rouge, symbolizing charm; under the moonlight, it radiates silver, symbolizing peace. A single body of clear water can evoke such boundless reflections. The colorful and dreamlike Shuixi Lake, so mysterious and awe-inspiring, fills one with wonder and a profound appreciation for nature’s endless charm.

　　The lake surface is green at all times, the mountains are green, the waters are green—even the air carries a hint of green. Everyone who visits Shuixi Lake is struck by its verdancy. The “daughter green” described by Zhu Ziqing once captivated many, but that was merely the green of a single pond. No matter how striking, it remained confined. In contrast, the “green” of Shuixi Lake is the “heroic green” of boundless breadth and sky-embracing magnanimity—both bold and heroic, yet tender and graceful. Only by coming to Shuixi Lake can one truly grasp the profound essence of this green within nature.

　　The mountains of Shuixi Lake possess a unique charm and ease, and its waters exude a sense of leisure and tranquility. Within this realm, birds and beasts seem to have found a paradise of joy. Their vitality reflects their trust and reliance on nature. Watch the egrets perched sporadically on the branches by the water, joyfully flapping and hopping about in carefree delight. Here, the raw, untamed beauty of nature becomes vivid and engaging.

　　The beauty of Shuixi Lake lies in its vibrant vitality and the genuine connection between all living things. Who says flowing water is heartless or plants and trees unaware? Every blade of grass, every tree, every bird and beast in Shuixi Lake is a life nurtured by its crystal-clear waters and verdant mountains. Life is sentient.