I just got back from Wanfeng Lake, and I highly recommend you check it out.

1. Transportation: 🚗 Self-driving: From Xingyi city center, take Jinghu Avenue or Fenglin Avenue to Hongchun Wharf or Bajie Wharf. The mountain roads are winding but well-maintained, and you can enjoy the karst peak forest scenery along the way. 🚌 Public transportation: There are minibuses from Xingyi South Bus Station to Bajie or Nanlong Buyi Ancient Village, but they are infrequent. Self-driving or chartering a car is recommended. 2. Best time to visit: 🍂 Seasonal characteristics: 🍂 Spring and Autumn (March-May, September-November): Pleasant climate, clear lake water, suitable for boat tours and photography. 🍂 Summer: A summer resort, ideal for water sports, but remember sun protection. 🌨️ Winter: High water levels, suitable for fishing and admiring the sea of clouds. - **Recommended time:** Take a boat trip on a sunny afternoon. The changing light and shadow on the lake at sunset are stunning. 3. Must-see attractions and recommended activities: 1. Core attractions ❤️ Hongchun Wharf: The starting point for boat tours. You can charter a boat to explore the islands in the lake. The recommended route is "Dam - Small Three Gorges - Jilong Fort." Charter boat prices are around 100-160 RMB (you can share a boat with others to negotiate a lower price). ❤️ Jilong Fort: A European-style castle in the lake. Its red and white exterior contrasts beautifully with the karst peaks, resembling a fairy tale world, perfect for photos. ❤️ Yuhuang Peak: Climb to the top for a panoramic view of Wanfeng Lake. Enjoy the sunrise in the morning and the sunset in the evening. You can drive directly to the summit. ❤️ Maling River Poyang Lake Entrance: The confluence of the Maling River and Wanfeng Lake. The canyon and lake waters blend together, creating a magnificent view. ⭐ 2. Special experiences ⛴️ Boat tour on the lake: Depart from Hongchun Wharf or Bajie Wharf. Routes include the canyon line (unique peaks and rocks) and the dam line (open lake view). 🎣 Wild fishing: Wanfeng Lake is a "Guinness-certified wild fishing paradise" with a 7.46 km fishing platform and 1,000 fishing spots. Fish are active in autumn and winter. Ethnic customs: Visit the Buyi villages on the water and experience traditional Buyi cuisine and culture, such as the "Eight Great Bowls" banquet. 🍻 4. Recommended local cuisine ❤️ Sour Soup Fish: A classic Guizhou dish, sour and spicy, made with fresh fish from the lake. ❤️ Chicken Soup Dumplings: A Xingyi specialty with a soft outer layer and a filling of chicken and mushrooms in a rich broth. ❤️ Buyi Eight Great Bowls: Includes eight traditional dishes such as pig's feet stewed with golden beans and rice, braised pork, etc., with unique flavors. ❤️ Shuabatou: Steamed dumplings filled with pork, served with dipping sauce, fresh and delicious. 5. Accommodation recommendations: 🏢 Lakeside homestays: There are many affordable guesthouses near Hongchun Wharf, offering an authentic rural experience. 🏢 Hotels in Xingyi city center: If you prefer comfort, it's recommended to stay in the city center, which is convenient for visiting nearby attractions such as Wanfenglin and Maling River Canyon the next day. ㊙️ 6. Practical tips: 1. Tickets and fees: Free entry to the scenic area (from 2024), but boat trips require payment (about 80 RMB/person). Parking fee is 10 RMB/time. 2. Environmental protection: The lake's water quality once deteriorated due to over-farming but has now been restored. Please do not litter and protect the ecological environment. 3. Drones and pets: Drones are allowed, and pets are welcome. 4. Itinerary planning: It is recommended to combine your visit with Wanfenglin and Maling River Canyon for a 2-3 day in-depth tour. 🙏🏻🙏🏻 7. Things to avoid: ⭐⭐ Boat selection: Try to share a boat with others to negotiate a lower price; the exterior of Jilong Fort is more beautiful, and the interior tour is less cost-effective. It is recommended to view it from afar. ⭐⭐ Traffic tips: Mountain roads have many curves, so drive carefully; buses are infrequent, so plan your time in advance. Wanfeng Lake combines natural wonders and cultural charm. Whether boating on the blue waves, fishing quietly, or exploring ethnic villages, it can make you forget the hustle and bustle of city life. Take this guide and start your journey through a landscape painting!