The boat cruise
游船
A guided boat tour across the lake, about 30–40 minutes, with Tujia folk songs performed on board.
Why Baofeng Lake is a must-see
After days of climbing, Baofeng Lake is the deep breath. The water is so still it mirrors the surrounding peaks, and a slow boat ride lets you take it in without using your legs.
The boat guides are often local Tujia singers who perform traditional songs that echo off the cliffs — a genuine cultural moment, not a staged show. Its one of the few places in Zhangjiajie where you sit and listen rather than walk.
At about 1,000 m elevation and backed by the same sandstone pillars, the lake is photogenic in any season — green in summer, misty in spring, and dramatic when the surrounding ridges catch low light.
Top highlights
Five things to enjoy at Baofeng Lake.
Mirror reflections
倒影
On calm mornings the sandstone peaks double in the water — the lakes signature shot.
Cliff echoes
山歌
Local singers perform traditional Tujia songs that bounce off the surrounding cliffs.
Emerald inlet
翡翠峡
A narrow, green inlet where the cliffs close in and the water turns jade.
Lakeside walk
湖畔步道
Short paved paths around part of the shore for a gentle stroll after the cruise.
Recommended routes
Two ways to enjoy the lake — pick by pace.
Boat tour
1–1.5 hours · easy, seated
- 1
Board at the dock after the short lakeside walk.
- 2
Cruise the lake ~30–40 min with singing.
- 3
Photo stops at the reflections and cliffs.
- 4
Return to dock and exit.
Walk + boat
2 hours · gentle
- 1
Lakeside path a short paved stroll.
- 2
Board the boat for the full cruise.
- 3
Exit via the visitor area.
Best time to visit
Apr – May
Green shores, misty, photogenic.
Sep – Nov
Clear water, crisp reflections.
Morning
Calmest water for mirror shots.
Avoid: windy days ripple the surface and kill the reflections; after heavy rain the water turns murky. Midday sun is fine but mornings are best for photos.
Travel tips
Best for a rest day
Seated, easy and short — ideal after Tianzi or Yuanjiajie hikes.
Go for calm mornings
Still water gives the mirror reflections. Windy days are less magical.
Bring water
Limited shade on the lakeside path. Carry at least 0.5 L per person.
Listen for the songs
The Tujia singing is the highlight — sit near the bow to hear it best.
Pair with Grand Canyon
Both are near the city and calm — a gentle half-day combo.
How to get there
City → Baofeng Lake. Bus or taxi from Zhangjiajie city, about 40–60 min toward Wulingyuan.
Arrive at the dock. buy or show your ticket.
Lakeside walk short paved path to the boat.
Cruise and return. back to the visitor area.
No metro or ride-hail inside the park — the official shuttle buses are the only way between gates. Keep your passport for ticket check.
Tickets & opening hours
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Baofeng Lake ticket | ¥96 — includes the boat cruise |
| Opening hours | 07:30 – 17:00 |
| Cruise length | ~30–40 minutes |
| Elevation | ~1,000 m |
| Best months | April–May, September–November |
Prices are reference values for international visitors and may change by season — confirm at the official gate. The combo ticket covers multiple entries over 4 days, so you can return for a clear-sky morning.
