Located in the central area of Tangshan City, Hebei Province, the South Lake · Kailuan Tourist Area is a national-level scenic spot integrating industrial heritage preservation, ecological restoration, and cultural experiences, showcasing Tangshan's remarkable transformation from an industrial hub to an ecological city.
Overview
Basic Information
- Area: Planned area of 30 square kilometers, with a core scenic area of 5.4 square kilometers.
- Composition: Consists of two main parts - South Lake Ecological Area and Kailuan National Mining Park.
- Honors: National 5A-level Tourist Attraction, National Urban Wetland Park, China Habitat Environment Model Award.
Historical Development
- Original Site: Former coal mining subsidence area of Kailuan Mine with severely damaged ecology.
- Restoration Process: Ecological rehabilitation began in 1996, and South Lake Park was initially completed in 2008.
- Current Status: Rated as a national 5A-level scenic spot in 2016, becoming a new landmark of Tangshan.
Main Attractions
South Lake Ecological Area
- Lake Area: Water surface of 11.5 square kilometers, equivalent to two West Lakes of Hangzhou.
- Phoenix Terrace: The highest point offering panoramic views of the entire scenic area.
- Love Promenade: 6km lakeside landscape belt, famous for its cherry blossom avenue.
- Botanical Garden: Greenhouse displaying characteristic plants from around the world.
Kailuan National Mining Park
- Kailuan Museum: Showcasing China's modern industrial development and coal mining history.
- Underground Exploration: Experience real coal mine tunnels 60 meters underground.
- Origin of Chinese Railways: Starting point of Tangxu Railway, China's first standard-gauge railway.
- Steam Locomotive Park: Exhibiting steam locomotives from various periods.
Featured Experiences
Industrial Culture Experiences
- Coal Mine Underground Experience: Wear miner's gear and experience underground working conditions.
- Steam Locomotive Driving: Experience driving vintage steam locomotives under professional guidance.
- Miner's Life Exhibition: Reconstructed miners' dormitories and canteens showing their living conditions.
Ecological Leisure Activities
- Lakeside Cycling: 10km professional cycling track with bike rental services.
- Water Sports: Kayaking, electric boating and other water recreation.
- Musical Fountain Show: Nighttime grand water screen light show.
Cultural Events
- South Lake International Lantern Festival: Annual special lantern exhibition during Spring Festival.
- Industrial Culture Festival: Thematic activities showcasing Tangshan's industrial achievements.
- Lotus Festival: Summer lotus appreciation activities.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
- South Lake Ecological Area: Open all day (some venues 09:00-17:00)
- Kailuan Mining Park: 09:00-16:30 (Closed on Mondays)
Ticket Information
- South Lake Ecological Area: Free admission (some experiences require fees)
- Kailuan Mining Park: All-inclusive ticket 120 RMB/person (includes underground exploration)
- Concession Ticket: 60 RMB/person (students, seniors etc.)
Transportation
- Public Transport: Take Tourist Bus Line 1 from Tangshan Railway Station, or multiple city buses.
- Self-drive: Exit at Tangshan Interchange of Jingha Expressway, then south along Jianshe Road.
- Parking: Multiple parking areas with over 2,000 spaces in total.
Travel Tips
- Best Season: April to October are ideal, sun protection needed in summer.
- Recommended Route: Visit Mining Park in the morning and South Lake in the afternoon.
- Special Note: Underground experience requires advance booking, not suitable for heart patients.