Jingpo Lake: China's Largest Volcanic Barrier Lake

Jingpo Lake: China's Largest Volcanic Barrier Lake
Jingpo Lake: China's Largest Volcanic Barrier Lake

Located in Ning'an City, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang Province, Jingpo Lake is a 5A-rated national tourist attraction, UNESCO Global Geopark and national park of scenic interest. As China's largest and the world's second largest volcanic lava-dammed lake, it's renowned for its "picturesque lake-mountain scenery and spectacular volcanic geology", hailed as the "Pearl of North China" and "Mortal World's Jade Pool".

Geological Wonders

Formation History

  • Volcanic Activity: Formed about 10,000 years ago by lava blocking river course
  • Lake Features: Surface elevation 350m, maximum depth 62m
  • Water Area: 95 sq km, stretching 45km north-south

Geological Relics

  • Crater Forests: 7 well-preserved volcanic craters with underground forests
  • Lava Plateau: 200 sq km basalt platform
  • Lava Tunnels: Kilometers-long underground lava channels

Main Attractions

Lake Scenery

  • Diaoshuilou Waterfall: China's largest volcanic waterfall with 20m drop
  • Dagu Mountain: Lake island with ancient Bohai Kingdom ruins
  • White Cliff: Steep white basalt precipice

Featured Zones

  • Underground Crater Forests: Primeval forest at 1,000m elevation
  • Jingpo Canyon: Gorge formed by solidified lava
  • Bohai Kingdom Ruins: Capital site of Tang Dynasty's Bohai Kingdom

Featured Experiences

Nature Exploration

  • Waterfall Diving Show: Guinness record for highest waterfall dive
  • Crater Hiking: Trek through pristine underground forests
  • Lava Tunnel Adventure: Guided exploration of geological wonders

Cultural Activities

  • Bohai Culture Exhibition: Learn about Tang Dynasty's Bohai Kingdom
  • Manchu Culture: Experience local ethnic traditions
  • Lake Fish Banquet: Taste signature whole-fish feast

Practical Information

Ticket Info

  • Main Area: ¥100/person
  • Crater Forest: ¥55/person
  • Sightseeing Bus: ¥30/person (lake circuit)

Opening Hours

  • Peak Season (May 1-Oct 31): 7:00-18:00
  • Off Season (Nov 1-Apr 30): 8:00-17:00

Transportation

  • Flight: Transfer from Mudanjiang Hailang Airport (~1.5hr by shuttle)
  • High-speed Rail: Take tourist bus from Mudanjiang Station
  • Driving: ~4.5hrs from Harbin via Hamo Expressway

Travel Tips

  • Best Time: June-September for summer retreat, winter for frozen falls
  • Duration: 2 days for in-depth visit
  • Essentials: Hiking shoes, sun protection, camera
  • Notice: Slippery areas near waterfall, safety first