Hengshui Lake Scenic Area is located in Hengshui City, Hebei Province. It is a National 5A-level Tourist Attraction, a National Eco-tourism Demonstration Zone, and a National Water Conservancy Scenic Area. The planned area of the scenic area is 26.4 square kilometers, the lake area is 75 square kilometers, and the water storage capacity is 188 million cubic meters.
The scenic area has distinctive features. It has the only complete inland wetland ecosystem in North China’s interior that retains waters, marshes, mudflats, meadows, and woodlands. It is a gathering place for wildlife of the North Temperate Zone. A total of 594 plant species, 757 insect species, 45 fish species, etc., have been recorded, and there are as many as 336 bird species. Among them are 10 species of national first-class protected birds, such as the red-crowned crane, Siberian crane, and black stork, and 54 species of national second-class protected birds, making it a veritable “paradise for birds.” The scenic area also contains distinctive islands such as Sansheng Island and Meihua Island, as well as cultural attractions such as the Ji Culture Museum. Nature and culture blend here, forming unique tourism resources.
History and Culture
Hengshui Lake has a long history and profound cultural heritage. According to research, it was formed in the Han Dynasty by the diversion and scouring of ancient rivers such as the ancient Yellow River and the ancient Zhang River. Through the changes of time, it gradually formed today’s lake and wetland landscape.
Over the course of history, the Hengshui Lake area has nurtured a rich culture. It was once an important part of ancient Jizhou and carries a profound Yan-Zhao cultural heritage. The villages by the lake have preserved many traditional folk customs, such as fishing culture and farming culture, showing the wisdom of local residents in living in harmony with nature. In addition, many historical relics have been discovered in the scenic area, providing important materials for the study of ancient geography and culture.
Main Attractions
Sansheng Island
Sansheng Island is an ecological island in Hengshui Lake, covering about 150 mu. The island is rich in vegetation and inhabited by many birds, making it an ideal place for birdwatching enthusiasts. It has a birdwatching platform and wooden boardwalks, allowing visitors to experience the charm of the wetland ecology up close and the harmony between humanity and nature.
Meihua Island (Plum Blossom Island)
Meihua Island is named for its plum-blossom shape and covers about 80 mu. A large number of plum blossoms are planted on the island. In spring, the plum blossoms bloom, filling the air with fragrance and creating a pleasant scene. The island also has a leisure area and a science exhibition area, where visitors can enjoy the scenery while learning about the ecology of Hengshui Lake.
Jizhou Museum
Jizhou Museum is located in Hengshui Lake Scenic Area, with a floor area of about 3,000 square meters. It displays a large number of cultural relics and exhibits related to Jizhou culture, systematically presenting the historical evolution, folk customs, and cultural achievements of the Hengshui area. It is an important window for understanding Ji culture.
Suggested Itinerary：
Recommended one-day itinerary: After arriving at the scenic area in the morning, first visit Jizhou Museum to learn about the history and culture of the Hengshui area; then take a boat tour of Hengshui Lake to enjoy the lake scenery, and stop at Sansheng Island for birdwatching; at noon, taste local specialties near the scenic area; in the afternoon, go to Meihua Island, then visit the Wetland Science Popularization Hall to learn about ecology; finally, stroll by the lake and experience the tranquility and beauty of the wetland.
Travel Tips：
It is recommended to spend 1–2 days to fully experience the natural and cultural charm of Hengshui Lake.
Spring and autumn are the best seasons for tourism. In spring, plum blossoms bloom on Meihua Island; in autumn, migratory birds pass through, creating beautiful scenery.
Bring binoculars, cameras, and other equipment to facilitate birdwatching and photography.
Some areas in the scenic area are wetland ecological protection zones. Please follow the regulations while visiting, and do not damage vegetation or disturb birds.
Precautions：
Smoking and littering are prohibited in the scenic area; keep the environment clean.
When taking a boat, wear a life jacket and follow the instructions of staff to ensure safety.
In summer, pay attention to sun protection and bring a sun hat, sunscreen, etc.; in winter, keep warm.
Respect local folk customs and behave civilly.
If you need to camp or carry out other activities in the scenic area, apply to the scenic area management department in advance.
Transportation：
Self-driving: From downtown Hengshui, drive south along Binhu Avenue for about 20 km to reach the scenic area; clear road signs are provided along the way.
Bus: Take Bus No. 18 from downtown Hengshui, which goes directly to the entrance of Hengshui Lake Scenic Area.
Taxi: From Hengshui Railway Station or Bus Station, take a taxi to the scenic area; the fare is about 30–40 yuan.
Opening Hours：
Open all year. Opening hours are 8:00–18:00 daily (summer) and 8:30–17:30 (winter). Opening hours of some attractions within the scenic area may be slightly adjusted; please refer to the day’s notices in the scenic area.
Tickets：
All-inclusive ticket (including boat ride): 158 yuan/person.