Qingshan Lake on the weekend is particularly tranquil in the 43-degree heat.

This water forest has lost its former hustle and bustle, leaving only the cicadas chirping and the sparkling waves. I stood on the wooden boardwalk, with crystal clear lake water under my feet and towering pond cypress overhead. Sunlight streamed through the gaps in the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the lake. After parking the car in the Babaili Liuzhuang parking lot, it is a ten-minute walk along the signs to reach the scenic area entrance. The crowded tour boat terminal on weekdays is now empty, giving me the opportunity to enjoy this rare tranquility alone. Rent a kayak and paddle into the depths of the forest. When the paddle blades push aside the duckweed, a few egrets are startled. The ripples they create as they skim over the water quickly return to calm. The most charming moment in the water forest is at dusk. When the sun sets in the west, the afterglow coats the entire forest in gold, and the reflection of the pond cypress stretches long on the lake. This is the best time to sit on the lakeside viewing platform and watch the sunset gradually redden the sky. It is recommended to bring mosquito repellent and sunscreen. Although the shade is dense, the summer's ultraviolet rays are still strong. In terms of transportation, in addition to driving, it is also convenient to walk from Exit C of Babaili Station on Metro Line 16. Admission to the scenic area is free, and you only need to pay for parking or boat rental. Although it is hot this season, you can see the most pristine appearance of Qingshan Lake, which is worth getting up early to visit when it is cool. Remember to bring enough drinking water, as the shops in the scenic area may not all be open this season.