Weishan Lake Red Lotus Wetland Park

Weishan Lake Wetland Park Travel Guide: Encounter the Poetry of the Northern Water Town Weishan Lake Wetland Park, located in Weishan County, Jining City, Shandong Province, is the largest meadow-type lake wetland in Asia. Covering an area of 100,000 mu, it integrates wetland protection, popular science education, and ecological sightseeing. It is a national AAAA-level tourist attraction. Pre-trip Preparations - Best time to visit: Summer (July-August) is the perfect time for lotus appreciation and photography, with red lotuses swaying in the breeze. Spring (March-May) offers a different kind of poetic charm, with the misty and rainy scenery of the water town. - Ticket information: Tickets can be purchased online through the WeChat official account "Shandong Weishan Lake Tourist Area", the mini-program "The Most Beautiful Weishan Lake", or Trip.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the ticket window or self-service ticket machines in the visitor center. Wetland scenic spot tickets are CNY 40/person. Booking online in advance often offers discounts. Transportation Guide - High-speed rail: After arriving at Jining Station, take the Weishan Lake express bus, which takes about 40 minutes. - Self-driving: Navigate directly to "Weishan Lake Red Lotus Wetland Scenic Area". There is a parking lot in the scenic area, making parking convenient. - Bus: There is a bus from Jining Bus Station every half hour, and the fare is about CNY 20. Tour Routes - Classic one-day tour: Start from the ecological parking lot, walk to the ticket office to enter the park, and take the "Weishan Lake" train to start a nostalgic journey. After arriving at the Red Wharf, cross the pontoon bridge to the Pontoon Bridge Square. Then take the sightseeing bus to visit the Biodiversity Experience Area (Cherry Blossom Garden) and the Plant Science Area, and experience the unique scenery of the wetland at Ludang Wenhe. Afterwards, take a break at the Lakeside Square, enjoy the beautiful scenery of the natural lotus garden, and watch birds foraging and flying. Finally, visit the Biodiversity Experience Hall to learn more about the wetland ecosystem. After the visit, return to Pontoon Bridge Square from Xuehe East Embankment, cross the pontoon bridge, and take the sightseeing bus back to the ecological parking lot. - In-depth two-day tour: Follow the one-day tour route on the first day. On the second day, watch the sunrise in the wetland early in the morning, then go to the rowing boat dock and take a boat through the reeds to experience the tranquility of the water town. Then go to Zhuchao Luyin to observe the birds' habitat, and then go to the Red Post to learn about the red history of Weishan Lake. Finally, take a leisurely stroll back to the entrance of the scenic area. Must-see Attractions - Weishan Lake Train: This green train, produced by the Shanghai Locomotive Factory in 1953, once ran between Shanghai and Xuzhou, carrying the memories of generations. Now it lies quietly by Weishan Lake, telling stories of the past. - Plant Science Area: There are more than 50 kinds of aquatic plants in the area, such as reeds and cannas. It is a good place for popular science education and research, allowing children to get close to nature and understand nature. - Ludang Wenhe: A large area of reeds and lotus flowers intertwine. Take a boat ride here, with the breeze blowing and the fragrance of lotus flowers filling the air. It is a popular spot for taking photos. Food Recommendations - Fisherman's Stewed Fish: Made with fresh crucian carp, snakehead, and other fish from Weishan Lake, simmered slowly with green onion, ginger, garlic, and special sauce. The soup is rich, and the fish is tender and smooth. "Lakeside Fishing Village" on Hubin Road is a good place to taste this dish while enjoying the lake view. - Handmade Lotus Root Balls: Made with pure lotus root powder, filled with sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, sugar, and other fillings. They are crystal clear, melt in your mouth, and are sweet but not greasy. "Lianxiang Garden" on Culture Street is known for its exquisite craftsmanship and various flavors. - Scrambled Eggs with Lake Shrimp: Fresh lake shrimp from Weishan Lake are stir-fried with eggs. The delicious lake shrimp and tender eggs blend perfectly. "Xiaxiangju" on Yanhu Road is worth a try. Accommodation Recommendations - Inside the scenic area: The train-themed hotel is full of fun and offers a unique accommodation experience. The RV campsite is closer to nature and convenient for enjoying the wetland scenery early in the morning. However, the price is relatively high, and reservations are required in advance. - Outside the scenic area: There are various budget hotels and homestays around the scenic area, with affordable prices, diverse choices, and convenient transportation. Precautions - Mosquito repellent in summer: There are many mosquitoes in summer, so be sure to bring mosquito repellent. - Sun protection measures: There is little shade in the scenic area, so bring sun protection items such as umbrellas and sunscreen. - Avoid scams: Do not trust boat tickets sold by scalpers outside the scenic area. It is recommended to purchase tickets through official channels. Choose designated stores to buy souvenirs to avoid buying inferior products.