Nianhu Lake in Huize County, Qujing

⏱ One-Minute Overview

Nian Lake (Nianhu), located in Daqiao Township of Huize County at an altitude of 2,500 meters, is one of the largest wintering habitats for black-necked cranes in Yunnan. From November to March, over 1,200 black-necked cranes dance in the morning mist—earning it the title “A Winter Fairytale of Northeastern Yunnan.”

📍 Geographic Coordinates

Location: Daqiao Township, Huize County, Qujing City, Yunnan Province
Distance: 50 km from Huize Town, 320 km from Kunming
Navigation keywords: 会泽 大桥乡 念湖大坝 (Huize – Daqiao Township – Nianhu Dam)

📜 History & Heritage

🏯 Historical Origins

The name “Nian Lake” comes from a Ming dynasty temple called “Nianhu.” During the late Qing dynasty, it served as a stopover on trade routes for mule caravans carrying Huize copper.

🌿 Ecological Significance

Designated a National-Level Black-Necked Crane Nature Reserve in 2006. The 25 km² core zone is home to 186 recorded bird species.

🎎 Cultural Highlights

Home to Yi, Han, and Hui communities. The traditional “Water Worship Festival” is held annually on the second day of the second lunar month to pray for good harvests.

🌸 Seasonal Highlights

📷 Top Photography Spots

🪿 East Wetlands by the Dam

Time: 7:00–9:30 AM
Best for capturing cranes taking off in the morning mist.

🏞 Lijiawan Crane Viewing Platform

During low water periods, you can walk into the wetland’s heart.
Tip: Use a 800 mm telephoto lens for close-ups.

🌅 Island in the Lake

Time: 5:00–6:30 PM
Golden-hour backlighting creates stunning crane silhouettes.

🌌 Stargazing Campground

No light pollution.
Milky Way visible: 10:00 PM–3:00 AM

🌿 Immersive Experiences

🛶 Classic 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive at noon → Scenic self-drive around the lake → Sunset at Lijiawan → Night sky photography
Day 2: Sunrise at the dam (5:30 AM) → Wetland hike → Return

🎓 Eco-Education (pre-book 3 days ahead)

Guided sessions by reserve volunteers on cranes and wetland ecology.

❄️ Winter Exclusives

Horse riding on snowy trails & ice fishing for crucian carp.

🚗 How to Get There

By Car

Route: Kunming → Hangrui Expressway → Huize Exit → County Road 058 → Daqiao Township
Duration: Approx. 3.5 hours
Note: Mountain roads may freeze in winter; carry snow chains.

By Public Transport

Take a 3.5-hour bus from Kunming East Bus Station to Huize → Transfer to local minibus (1 hour) to Daqiao Township.

Local Access: Core viewing areas around the dam are walkable.

ℹ️ Practical Info

🎫 Entrance Fee

Free

⏰ Opening Hours

Open all day

🛏 Accommodation

• Guanhe Villa / Nianhu Villa (by the dam, wake up to cranes): ¥260–¥380/night

• Tingheju Homestay in Lijiawan (incl. meals): ¥100–¥160/night

🍽 Food Recommendations

• Huize-style rice noodles in clay pot

• Ham & red bean stew

• Nian Lake fish banquet
  Average cost: ¥40–¥60 per person

🧳 What to Pack

• Winter Gear: Down jacket, windproof pants, gloves, hat

• Photography: 400–800 mm telephoto lens, tripod, thermos bottle

📢 Respect Nature

• Keep 300+ meters distance from cranes

• No flash photography or drones

• Leave no trace—pack out all trash

💬 Final Note

Nian Lake may not charge an entrance fee, but it offers priceless experiences: romantic mists, flocks of black-necked cranes, and dazzling night skies. It’s a winter paradise for photographers and nature lovers alike, where a single thought (“Nian”) creates a lake of memories.