[2025 Qinhuangdao Attraction] Travel Guide for Yansai Lake (Updated Jun)

Nestled among the towering mountains of Qinhuangdao City in Hebei Province lies a fairy-tale-like body of water—Yansai Lake. With its crystal-clear waters and picturesque scenery, it is hailed as the "Lijiang of the North," a natural treasure bestowed upon this land. A Scenic Masterpiece Yansai Lake, located in the northern mountainous area of Qinhuangdao, derives its name from its position as a strategic pass in the Yanshan Mountains. The lake's pristine waters shimmer under the sunlight, surrounded by rolling green peaks that create a breathtaking landscape. Gliding across the lake on a boat feels like stepping into a dreamy paradise, offering a serene and uplifting experience. Four Seasons, Four Charms Yansai Lake's beauty transcends its stunning views, changing with the seasons. In spring, peach and apricot blossoms paint the lakeshore in soft hues; summer brings cool waters and lush shade, perfect for escaping the heat. Autumn transforms the surrounding forests into a vibrant tapestry of red and gold, while winter blankets the lake in ice and snow, turning it into a magical frosty kingdom. Rich Historical Legacy Beyond its natural allure, Yansai Lake is steeped in history. As a key military stronghold since ancient times, the area is dotted with remnants of the Great Wall, weaving through the mountains and bearing witness to centuries of change. Visitors can immerse themselves in both the scenic beauty and the profound cultural heritage. Diverse Attractions The Yansai Lake Scenic Area boasts a wealth of attractions. Highlights include the "Pearl of Yansai," a grand cliff carving showcasing the lake's grandeur, and the lush, bird-filled "Lake Heart Island," ideal for relaxation. The "Yansai Lake Grand Canyon" captivates with its unique geological formations. Activities for All Whether cruising the lake, strolling along scenic trails, or enjoying recreational facilities like fishing, barbecuing, and camping, Yansai Lake offers something for everyone. It’s a place to unwind, connect with nature, and create lasting memories. In Summary Yansai Lake is a harmonious blend of natural splendor, cultural depth, and leisure activities. Its ever-changing beauty and rich offerings make it a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquility and adventure alike. Come and let your soul find solace in this enchanting retreat.

| A Super Healing Seaside Getaway in Northern China! When the pure white chapel meets the tangerine sea sunrise, this utopian community holds all your fantasies for a seaside vacation~ 🚗2-Day 1-Night Itinerary Day 1: Beijing → Aranya (3h drive) → Chapel Sunset → Canteen Dinner for Property Owners → Participate in Aranya Community Activities (Check the official APP for activity details & reservation methods) Day 2: Sunrise → Dune Art Museum → Seafood Market Lunch → Yansai Lake Bird Language Forest (CNY 45, feeding pigeons is super relaxing) → Return Trip 📍Must-Visit Spots in Aranya 1️⃣Secluded Library: Reservation required, 9:00 am is the least crowded, the light and shadows through the hollow wall in the afternoon are absolutely stunning~ 2️⃣Aranya Chapel: Take silhouette photos at sunrise, even more dreamy when the lights are on at night 3️⃣Dune Art Museum: CNY 60, cave-style architecture with a super sense of design, the sea view terrace is great for taking photos~ 4️⃣Seaside Market: Buy freshly landed seafood in the morning (can be processed on your behalf) 📸Photo Guide Outfit: Linen long dress + straw bag (literary style), denim shorts + white shirt (youthful vibe) Angles: Chapel side backlight steps, library benches/curved corridors, Bar Lotus coastline, wetland reed beds ✨Featured Activities 1️⃣Participate in community activities: "Seaside Sunrise Yoga" (APP reservation) 2️⃣Saturday Limited: Seaside Market (fishermen directly supply seafood that can be processed) 3️⃣Late Night Canteen: Grilled squid with craft beer at the Sea Breeze Bar 4️⃣Literary Surprise: Write a postcard to the sea at "OWSpace" 🛏Accommodation Recommendations 1️⃣Vacation with Kids: Anlan Hotel (CNY 800+, unlimited snacks and drinks) 2️⃣Internet-Famous Homestay: "Ideal Land" Homestay (CNY 600+ | book wall + vinyl records) 3️⃣Preferred Choice for Pets: "Kennel" Hotel (CNY 800+ | pet bathrobe + snack gift pack) 🍴Aranya Cuisine 1️⃣Must-Eat: Third Canteen: Seafood Noodles with Gravy + Grilled Lamb Chops (CNY 50 per person), Lanzhou Beef Noodles, Sea Breeze Bar BBQ 2️⃣Dessert Lovers: Wei Cong Shan Hai "Sea Wave Tiramisu" 3️⃣Sea Living Room: Steamed Seafood Platter (the dipping sauce is amazing!) 🎁Souvenirs Aranya Limited Edition Fridge Magnet (Chapel shape) Beidaihe Yang Sausage (vacuum-packed ham) 🐦Side Trip: Qinhuangdao Yansai Lake Bird Language Forest Qinhuangdao's only mountain and lake bird sanctuary, on a peninsula surrounded by water on three sides, free-ranging 100+ kinds of rare birds, the most stunning is the suspended boardwalk along the Yansai Lake shore, with clear water under your feet and flocks of birds circling overhead~ Departing from Aranya Self-driving: Aranya → Yansai Lake (1h | take the coastal expressway to the G1 Beijing-Harbin Expressway) Taxi: Approx. CNY 100 (it is recommended to negotiate a round-trip price with the driver) ⚠Precautions Birds return to their nests after 4pm, it is recommended to arrive before 2pm No restaurants in the scenic area, you can bring your own simple meals (Aranya Canteen's packed sandwiches are a great match!)

Shanhaiguan is not only home to the Great Wall, but also the bird-song and flower-scented Yansai Lake. Qinhuangdao, this beautiful coastal city, has five coastal districts and counties, with Shanhaiguan District being one of them. The Sunshine Bathing Beach, Laolongtou (Old Dragon's Head), Lido, and Egret Island... each place is captivating and unforgettable. However, the beauty of Qinhuangdao is not limited to the sea alone. This time, I want to take you to explore Yansai Lake in the northern part of Shanhaiguan District. It is nestled in the mountains at the lower reaches of the Shi River, like a gem embedded within them. Unlike the Heavenly Lake of Changbai Mountain, Yansai Lake was formed at the gap between several mountains by the Shi River. Here, not only can you enjoy the spectacular lake views, but also interact with adorable animals. Upon entering the scenic area, the first to greet you are flocks of pigeons, followed by black swans and ostriches. As you walk into the Bird Language Forest, you will see blue peacocks, white peacocks, guinea fowls, and pheasants roaming freely. They are not afraid of humans and may even approach visitors for food. And if you don't have any food, they will look at you with their spirited eyes for a moment before turning to seek other tourists. Further up is the observation deck. From here, you can take in the entire Yansai Lake and the surrounding mountains at a glance. You will feel an openness and comfort like never before. Here, you can fully enjoy the natural beauty and feel the magical charm of nature.

Shoushan Erlang Temple is an abandoned scenic spot. Yansai Lake Bird Language Forest is a normally operating scenic spot. Both belong to Qinhuangdao City, not far from the sea.