Juyan Lake

Historical Overview

• Ancient Significance: Since the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE), Juyan Lake served as a critical water source for Silk Road travelers and military outposts. The “Juyan Relics” include Han Dynasty fortresses and Tang-era tombs.
• Environmental Decline: By the 1990s, overuse of the Heihe River reduced the lake to dry salt flats.
• Modern Revival: A 2000–2020 ecological project redirected water, restoring wetlands and attracting over 200 bird species.

Structural Layout
The lake is divided into three zones:

1. East Lake: The largest section, with reed beds and migratory bird colonies.
2. West Lake: Shallow waters ideal for photography and birdwatching.
3. Northern Wetlands: A restored zone with walking trails and observation towers.

Major Attractions

1. Juyan Relics: Han Dynasty fortress ruins and Tang-era tombstones near East Lake.
2. Migratory Bird Paradise: Over 180 species, including rare black storks and demoiselle cranes (April–October).
3. Sunrise Platform: A wooden deck offering golden views of the lake at dawn.
4. Ecological Museum: Interactive exhibits on wetland restoration and desert flora.
5. Camel Trekking: Guided rides along the lakeshore (1–2 hours).

Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic Half-Day Tour
   • East Lake → Sunrise Platform → Juyan Relics.
   • Highlight: Birdwatching at dawn.
2. Full-Day Adventure
   • East Lake → West Lake → Northern Wetlands → Camel Trekking.
   • Add a visit to the Ecological Museum.
3. Cultural & Ecological Deep Dive
   • Guided tours of Han-Tang relics + workshop on traditional wetland conservation.

Ticket Information

• Standard Ticket: ¥120 (single entry).
• Multi-Entry Pass: ¥200 (3-day validity).
• Inclusive Pass: ¥180 (includes camel rides and museum access).
• Discounts: 50% off for students/seniors; free for children under 1.2m.

Transportation

• By Air: Fly to Jiayuguan or Zhangye, then 3-hour bus to Ejina.
• By Train: Daily overnight train from Lanzhou (10 hours).
• By Bus: Direct buses from Ejina City (1.5 hours).
• Local Transport: Electric shuttle buses connect zones; bicycles available for rent.

Best Time to Visit

• Peak Season: April–October (migratory bird season).
• Quiet Periods: Late autumn (November) for golden reed photography.
• Weather: Summers are warm (25°C); winters are cold (-10°C).

Essential Tips

• Wear waterproof shoes for wetland trails.
• Bring binoculars for birdwatching.
• Respect ecological zones: no feeding wildlife or littering.
• Photography: Use a telephoto lens for distant birds.