Yingjiang Kabangya Lake

　　    “Kabangya” means “a beautiful place” in the Jingpo language. The waters of Kabangya Lake twist and turn, dotted with nearly a hundred islands and countless peninsulas. At first glance, the islands seem connected, but in fact, there are more islands hidden behind others, creating an interplay of land and water that resembles a fairyland from Penglai. The mirror-like lake surface is often graced by the flight of water birds or their perching on trees in the water, adding to the serenity and elegance of the scene.

　　    Kabangya Lake is located 48 kilometers southwest of Yingjiang County, situated along the route from Yingjiang County (a national Class-II port) to the border pass of Nabang. It is the reservoir of the Husu River Hydropower Station and is classified as a natural water-based tourism resource. The scenic area covers a planned area of 22.8 square kilometers, with the water surface spanning 8 square kilometers, all nestled among towering mountains. With an average altitude of over 1,000 meters and an annual average temperature of 14.2°C, it serves as a rare “cool haven,” making it an ideal summer retreat for those seeking to reconnect with nature and enjoy leisurely vacations.

　　    The lake features nearly a hundred islands and countless peninsulas. Cattle graze peacefully on grassy slopes or lounge lazily in the sun; from time to time, water buffalo can be seen swimming across to other idyllic islands, their movements at a glance reminiscent of dragons playing in the water. Bamboo rafts equipped with awnings host people fishing leisurely; occasionally, a few rafts drift swiftly across the lake—some arriving, some departing—these are the first-generation Jingpo fishermen. Climbing to the highest point, North Island, and looking out over the panorama, one can take in the breathtaking beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains. The lakeshore is lined with Jingpo ethnic villages, and the vibrant mountain culture further enriches the area’s cultural heritage. The combination of mountainous natural scenery and ethnic culture makes this scenic area a unique mountainous ethnic cultural eco-park.

　　    The Kabangya Lake scenic area is divided into two main sections: the Natural Landscape Sightseeing Area and the Natural Recreation Area. The Natural Landscape Sightseeing Area mainly consists of the Wild Birds Eco-Sightseeing Zone, Island Light Sightseeing Zone, Subtropical Orchard Sightseeing Zone, and Water Source Natural Sightseeing Zone. The Natural Recreation Area includes the Water Recreation Zone, Mountain and Forest Recreation Zone, and Camping Activity Zone. Water activities feature rafting, motorboats, water parachuting, and water ziplining; the forest and mountain recreation zone offers archery hunting grounds, spearfishing, and caravan rides with pack horses. The camping activity zone provides opportunities for outdoor cooking, bonfires, and overnight stays in tents.