Travel Tips for Encountering Dreamlike Blue Ice at Qinghai Lake in Winter

As the winter wind blows gently, Qinghai Lake sheds its summer bustle and noise, and puts on a crystal-clear "ice dress," transforming into a dreamlike ice and snow world. Now, let's share this super-detailed travel guide for Qinghai Lake in winter, and unlock the unique charm of Qinghai Lake in winter! 🧳Pre-trip preparation Clothing: The temperature of Qinghai Lake in winter is extremely low. Be sure to bring thick down jackets, warm sweaters, fleece pants, snow boots, scarves, gloves, and hats. Choose windproof and waterproof materials as much as possible to withstand the cold wind. Skin care and sun protection: The ultraviolet rays in the plateau area are strong, even in winter. Prepare high-SPF sunscreen, moisturizer, lip balm, and sunglasses to prevent skin sunburn and cracking. Other items: Power bank, thermos (it's important to drink hot water at any time), cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, and other commonly used medicines to prevent physical discomfort. 🚗Transportation guide Airplane: You can first arrive at Xining Caojiabao International Airport, then take a special bus to Qinghai Lake from the airport, or choose to rent a car or carpool, the journey takes about 2-3 hours. Train: First arrive at Xining Station or Xining West Station, then charter a car or take a bus to Qinghai Lake from Xining city. The bus frequency is relatively low, so it is recommended to check the time in advance. 🌟Scenic spots Blue ice wonder: The most attractive thing about Qinghai Lake in winter is the blue ice. Near the Erlangjian Scenic Area, large areas of blue ice under the sun are like a dream, like blue crystals, with ice cracks crisscrossing, and the light refraction presents a wonderful texture, every shot is a blockbuster📸 Sunrise and sunset: At the lakeside observation point, waiting for sunrise and sunset is an experience not to be missed. When the first ray of sunlight or the last ray of twilight falls on the ice, the entire lake is dyed golden red, contrasting with the azure sky and the snow-capped mountains, creating a breathtaking view. Bird Island: Although the number of birds in winter is less than that in summer, there are still some migratory birds inhabiting here. If you are lucky, you can see them playing and foraging on the ice, adding a touch of vitality to the quiet winter Qinghai Lake. 🗺Travel route planning Day 1: Xining - Riyue Mountain - Daotang River - Qinghai Lake (enjoy blue ice, watch sunset) Day 2: Qinghai Lake (watch sunrise) - Bird Island - Chaka Salt Lake (if the weather permits, Chaka Salt Lake in winter also has a unique flavor) - Xining 🍱Food recommendations Qinghai Lake naked carp: This is a unique fish species of Qinghai Lake. The meat is tender, but it is now a protected animal and cannot be eaten. However, you can learn about its unique characteristics. Qinghai old yogurt: The taste is mellow, the milk flavor is strong, and there is a thick layer of milk skin on the top. Sprinkle with white sugar, sour and sweet, it is a local must-try snack. Kang pot mutton: A full pot of mutton, served with potatoes, onions, and other side dishes, fried in a cast iron pot until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, fragrant and full of flavor, perfect for warming up in the cold winter. ❗Precautions The surface of Qinghai Lake is frozen in winter, but the thickness of the ice varies. Do not walk deep into the ice to avoid danger⚠️ When driving to Qinghai Lake, pay attention to the icy roads, control your speed, and drive carefully. As it is a plateau area, you may experience altitude sickness when you first arrive. Pay attention to rest and avoid strenuous exercise. If the altitude sickness symptoms are severe, seek medical attention immediately. Come to Qinghai Lake and have a romantic date with the blue ice in winter! 💕