As winter arrives, Nianhu Lake unveils its most enchanting beauty. Every year, during the winter season, many photography enthusiasts are captivated by its allure. The interplay of morning mist, migratory birds, sunrise and sunset creates mind-blowing scenes, painting a breathtaking winter tableau unique to Nianhu Lake.
Located in Daqiao Township, Huize County, Qujing City, Yunnan Province, Nianhu Lake lies within the nationally designated Crane Nature Reserve. With an average elevation of 2,600 meters and a maximum elevation of 2,958 meters, it belongs to a cool plateau region with an average annual temperature of 13 degrees Celsius.
The area enjoys abundant sunlight and is primarily known for the cultivation of buckwheat and potatoes. Originally an inconspicuous reservoir known as Yuejin Reservoir, the formation of this highland lake has altered the local climate and ecological environment.
Migratory birds, including the majestic, Black-Necked Crane, Hooded Crane, Baikal Teal, Mandarin Duck, Red-breasted Merganser, Eurasian Wigeon, Pintail and Bean Goose, among others, flock here to spend the winter.
In recent years, due to the continuous efforts of the local community, the number of Black-necked Cranes wintering in Nianhu Lake has been steadily increasing. From mid-November to the Chinese New Year in February, the birds fly over mountains and rivers in pairs, arriving here for the winter.
Other waterfowl, such as Bar-headed Geese, Magpies, and Wild Ducks, add to the vibrant scenery of this water body.
The best time to observe the cranes is from January to March when you can capture the graceful dance of these magnificent birds against a backdrop of snowy mountains.
On the mountain, there are terraced fields with red soil and, by the lake, you will find winter rapeseed flowers unique to Yunnan. The azure highland sky and the jewel-like blue lake water, together with the dreamlike sunrise, create a beautiful picture. The serene water surface, the silent mountains, the deep lake water, and the red soil, guided by the agile migratory birds, present a dynamic and touching scene, making it a paradise for photographers and travelers alike.
Best Scenic Sites:
The reservoir dam and the surrounding areas where Black-necked Cranes forage.
The foraging grounds for Black-necked Cranes are mainly in the wetlands along the route from the dam to Lijiawan. When the water level of the reservoir is low, it is ideal for photographing as many Black-necked Cranes gather in the wetlands around Lijiawan, catching fish and shrimp.
In the early morning, before the sun rises, a large number of Black-necked Cranes sleep in the wetlands on the eastern side of the reservoir. When the sun rises, they fly in groups to the surrounding wetlands to search for food.
In addition, the night sky at Nianhu Lake is splendid, making it a great place to capture star trails.
Tips:
1. Nianhu Lake can be cold with strong winds in winter, so you are advised to dress warmly.
2. Black-necked Cranes are highly alert birds, so avoid making loud noises or using a flash when photographing them.
3. Remember to respect the environment and avoid littering, to preserve the ecological balance.
4. When returning, if you take a minibus, make sure to pre-book the minibus from Daqiao Township to Huize with the guesthouse or hotel owner in advance, as there may be limited seats during busy times.
5. Advocate for civilized birdwatching, regulate your own behaviour, set a good example, and educate others to protect the gifts of nature.
To get the best images, it is recommended to go early in the morning from 5:30 to 9:30 and in the afternoon from 15:30 to 17:30.
To get the best images, it is recommended to go early in the morning from 5:30 to 9:30 and in the afternoon from 15:30 to 17:30.
Typically, spending 2-3 days at Nianhu Lake is suitable for photography-focused travel.
On the first day, you can arrive and scout the shooting locations for the next day.
On the second day, wake up early to capture the sunrise and Black-necked Cranes. During the day, you can photograph rural scenes, as well as the sunset scenery around the lake and the mountains.
On the third day, you can capture the sunrise, before heading back. Alternatively, you can plan a two-day itinerary based on your own schedule.
Self-driving route:
Take the Kunming -Huize Expressway, exit at Huize and take the small main road directly to Daqiao Township. The entire journey takes about five hours.
Public transportation:
You can take a bus to Huize County first and then transfer to a rural minibus within the station to reach Daqiao Township.
The local homestay. (But not all homestay can speak English.)
Local food, most are Yunnan Cuisine.
