Nestled in the Baiku Lake Scenic Area of Chongzhou City, Sichuan Province, Crystal Palace is a hidden gem just an hour’s drive from downtown Chengdu. To reach this unique attraction, you can either take a scenic road trip or hop on a local bus from Chengdu’s Xinhualuo Transportation Hub. The journey itself is part of the adventure, as you’ll pass rolling hills and tranquil lakes before arriving at this modern-meets-mythical destination.

Natural Surroundings

Crystal Palace sits within the lush Baiku Lake area, surrounded by mist-covered mountains and crystal-clear waters. The lake itself is a paradise for nature lovers—think swans gliding across the water and reeds swaying in the breeze. But the real showstopper here is the palace’s integration with its environment. Half-submerged in the lake, it feels like a bridge between land and water, especially when sunlight reflects off its glass walls, creating a shimmering effect.

Architectural Marvel

This isn’t just any building—Crystal Palace is China’s first semi-submerged steel-structure attraction, designed to mimic legends of underwater dragon palaces. At 28 meters long and 18 meters wide (about the size of a basketball court), it’s massive yet sleek. The three-story design blends futuristic vibes with traditional Chinese aesthetics. Climb the tower-like top floor, and you’ll find panoramic views of Baiku Lake that make you feel like you’re in a painting.

Underwater Wonderland (Lower Level)

The bottom floor of Crystal Palace is where the magic happens. Step into an underwater observation deck divided into four themed rooms: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter. Each room uses lighting, temperature, and decor to trick your senses. In Winter, for example, you’ll feel like you’re in a snowy wonderland, while Summer buzzes with vibrant energy. Press your nose against the glass windows, and you’ll see fish of every color and size swimming inches away—sometimes even curiously pecking at the glass! Kids (and adults) will lose it when a fish “kisses” their lips through the pane.

Middle Level: Beach Vibes & Bumps

Head upstairs to the middle level, and you’ll find a surprise: a sandy beach area with loungers and a pool. Yes, in the middle of Sichuan! Here, you can splash around, ride bumper boats, or just chill under umbrellas. It’s like a mini-vacation within your vacation. The best part? The lake’s edges are lined with palm trees, so you’ll forget you’re inland China for a second.

Top Level: Party & Panorama

The upper floor splits into two parts. One side is a swanky dance hall with glittering lights and a dance floor—perfect for a night out. The other side is a five-tiered pagoda-style tower. Climb to the top, and you’ll be rewarded with views of Baiku Lake framed by distant mountains. At night, Crystal Palace lights up like a lantern, casting rainbow reflections on the water. From a distance, it looks like a floating city from a fairy tale—or maybe Atlantis, but Chinese edition.

Practical Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: Weekdays are less crowded, but weekends mean lively atmospheres. Go on a sunny day for maximum sparkle.
  • What to Bring: Swimsuits for the pool, snacks (there are limited food options), and a camera for those “fish kissing the glass” moments.
  • Tickets: Affordable, around 50-100 RMB (depending on activities). Check online for combo deals with Baiku Lake entry.

Why You’ll Love It

Crystal Palace isn’t just a sight—it’s an experience. Whether you’re geeking out over fish, dancing under disco balls, or pretending you’re royalty in an underwater kingdom, there’s something for everyone. And hey, where else can you say you danced in a Chinese lake and swam with fish in the same day? Trust me, this isn’t your average “tourist trap”—it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.

(P.S. Pro tip: Visit during golden hour. The sunset reflecting off the palace’s glass walls? Insta-worthy.)