Jinhai Lake
Jinhai Lake, completed in 1984 as a flood-control reservoir, spans 6.5 km² in Beijing’s Pinggu District. A National AAAA scenic spot, it combines recreational facilities with natural beauty, featuring a 10km² water area, islands, and hills. The lake serves as a hub for water sports, camping, and day trips from Beijing, with nearby access to Huangyaguan Great Wall.
Historical Overview
- Construction: Built between 1980–1984 to manage Hai River floods and supply irrigation water.
- Modern Development: Upgraded in 2000 with eco-tourism facilities, including marinas and glamping sites.
- Cultural Legacy: Hosted the 2015 Beijing International Sailing Week, boosting its profile as a sports destination.
Structural Layout
The lake is divided into three zones:
- Main Lake Area: Features a 1,200m-long dam, marina, and the 30m-tall "Golden Sea Pagoda."
- Recreational Zone: Includes water parks, zip-lines, and a 2km-long "Lovers’ Promenade."
- Nature Reserve: Wetlands and hills home to migratory birds and rare plant species.
Major Attractions
- Golden Sea Pagoda: A Ming Dynasty-style tower offering panoramic lake and mountain views.
- Water Sports Center: Rent kayaks, jet skis, or stand-up paddleboards (¥100–300/hour).
- Lovers’ Island: A heart-shaped islet connected by a 99m-long bridge, ideal for photography.
- Glamping Sites: Luxury tents with lakeside views and bonfire pits (¥500–800/night).
- Huangyaguan Great Wall: A 15km drive to this restored Ming Dynasty section (built 1368–1644).
Suggested Itineraries
- Half-Day Water Adventure (3–4 hours):
Entrance → Marina (jet ski/kayak) → Lovers’ Island → Golden Sea Pagoda.
Highlight: Sunset views from the pagoda.
- Full-Day Nature & Culture Tour (6–7 hours):
Entrance → Wetland hike → Water sports → Huangyaguan Great Wall sunset tour.
Add-on: Dinner at a lakeside barbecue site (¥80/person).
- Weekend Glamping Experience (2 Days):
Day 1: Arrival → Glamping setup → Evening bonfire.
Day 2: Morning hike → Water sports → Departure.
Ticket Purchase
- Online: Book via Ctrip or the official WeChat account "Jinhai Lake" (up to 7 days in advance).
- On-Site: Tickets available at the entrance; group discounts (10+ people: 20% off).
- Prices:
- Peak Season (April–October): ¥40 (adults), ¥20 (students/seniors).
- Off-Season (November–March): ¥30 (adults), ¥15 (students/seniors).
- Free: Children under 1.2m.
Transportation
- By Bus: From Dongzhimen Hub Station, take Bus 852 to Pinggu, then transfer to Bus 29 to Jinhaihu. Special tourist buses depart at 9:00 AM (¥25 one-way).
- By Car: 1.5-hour drive from Beijing via G45 Daqing-Guangzhou Expressway → S32 Beijing-Pinggu Expressway.
- Guided Tours: Half-day tours from Beijing (¥120–180/person, includes transport).
Best Time & Tips
- Peak Season: May–September (ideal for water sports).
- Avoid Crowds: Weekdays; arrive early (8:00 AM opening).
- Essentials:
- Bring swimwear and towels for water activities.
- Rent equipment on-site if not bringing your own.
- Respect eco-zones: No fishing in protected wetlands.