Located in southwest Chongming District, Mingzhu Lake is Shanghai's largest natural freshwater lake covering 3 square kilometers. As a national wetland park and 5A-level scenic area, it preserves Shanghai's most intact wetland ecosystem, known as "the Emerald of Yangtze Estuary".
History & Culture
Historical Origins
- Formation: Ancient lagoon formed by Yangtze River sedimentation over millennia
- Naming: Named for its pearl-like shape in Chongming's Xisha area
- Development: Established as wetland park in 2005, rated 5A in 2024
Cultural Features
- Fishing-Farming Culture: Preserves traditional aquaculture and eco-agriculture
- Eco-Education: Important nature education and research base
- Photography: Premier birdwatching and wetland photography site
Natural Landscapes
Wetland Ecosystem
- Water Area: 2.6km² core lake with 2.5m average depth
- Vegetation: 80% coverage by reeds and wetland plants
- Water Quality: Class II national standard living water
Biodiversity
- Bird Paradise: 156 species including protected Hooded Cranes
- Fish Haven: 62 wild fish species, migration route for Reeves shad
- Plant Kingdom: 318 wetland plant species including wild soybean
Main Attractions
Core Areas
- Mingzhu Lake: Solar-powered boat tours on main lake
- Xisha Wetland: Largest tidal wetland in East China
- Birdwatching Towers: 6 professional observation points
Signature Views
- Reed Snow: Silver reed fields in autumn
- Lakeside Sunset: Premier Yangtze Estuary sunset spot
- Crystal Waters: Clear views of wild fish shoals
Unique Experiences
Eco-Tourism
- Birdwatching: Migratory waterfowl observation (Nov-Mar)
- Eco-Cruise: Solar-powered circular lake tour
- Lakeside Cycling: 15km greenway around the lake
Seasonal Events
- Spring: Birdwatching Festival (April)
- Summer: Lotus Festival (Jul-Aug)
- Autumn: Reed Flower Festival (Oct-Nov)
Practical Information
Opening Hours
- Peak Season (Apr-Oct): 08:00-17:00
- Off Season (Nov-Mar): 08:30-16:30
- Boat Tours: 09:00-16:00 (hourly departures)
Tickets
- Adult: ¥60 (includes wetland museum)
- Concession: ¥30 (students/seniors over 60)
- Boat Ticket: ¥40 (50min circular tour)
- Free Entry: Children under 1.3m & seniors over 70
Transportation
- Drive: Yangtze River Tunnel→Chenhai Rd→Sanhua Rd→Mingzhu Lake Rd
- Bus: Shenchong Line 6 to Nanmen→Transfer to Nanniu Line
- Ferry: Baoyang Pier→Nanmen Pier→Transfer by bus
Tips
- Best visiting at dawn/dusk for bird activity
- Bring binoculars, telephoto lens and sun protection
- No plant picking or wildlife disturbance allowed
- Recommended duration: 3-4 hours