Discover Jintang Lake: A Hidden Gem Near Chongqing

Location & How to Get There

Jintang Lake lies in the western suburbs of Zhengxing Town, Bishan District, Chongqing. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from central Chongqing, nestled between lush hills and quiet villages. To reach it:

  • By car: Follow the Baicheng-Yukai Expressway and take the Bishan exit. Local roads will lead you straight to the lake.
  • By public transport: Take a bus from Chongqing South Station to Bishan City (~1 hour), then transfer to a local minivan bound for Zhengxing Town. From there, it’s a 15-minute taxi ride to Jintang Lake.
  • Pro tip: The lake is near the Lucheng Ancient Town, so combine your trip for a full-day adventure!

Natural Beauty: A Lake Unlike Any Other

Jintang Lake isn’t just another pretty body of water. Covering over 1,100 acres (think 85 football fields!), it’s surrounded by rolling hills that hug the lake like a green embrace. Here’s what makes it special:

  • Serpentine shape: The lake stretches 8 km long with 36 twists and 72 bends, creating endless postcard views.
  • Crystal-clear waters: Up to 30 meters deep, the water glows turquoise, especially on sunny days.
  • Waterfalls & springs: Look for small cascades tumbling down rocks, like Yellow Maiden Spring and Imperial Concubine Spring, which feed into the lake.
  • Wildlife: Keep an eye out for herons diving for fish or dragonflies dancing above the reeds.

Unique Rock Formations & Legends

Jintang Lake’s landscape is full of quirky natural sculptures:

  • Daughter’s Rock: A towering cliff said to resemble a girl watching over the lake (perfect for Instagram!).
  • Guanyin Rock: Named after its Buddha-like shape, with a tiny cave where locals leave offerings.
  • Thunderbolt Rock: A split boulder rumored to be struck by lightning—a fun photo op!
  • Golden Bamboo Bay & Golden Lion Bay: These coves get their sparkle from sunset light reflecting off the water.

Cultural Spots: A Touch of History

Beyond nature, Jintang Lake has roots in local lore:

  • The name’s origin: “Jintang” comes from a blend of faith and folktales. A centuries-old Catholic chapel stands nearby, and legends say the area once glittered with gold from sand deposits.
  • Quiet charm: Unlike crowded spots, here you’ll find peaceful temples and simple fishing villages. Walk along stone paths lined with bamboo groves, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

What to Do: Adventure & Relaxation

Jintang Lake offers something for everyone:

  • Boat trips: Rent a paddleboat or join a guided tour to explore hidden bays. The lake’s “108 scenic spots” reveal new angles with every bend.
  • Hiking: Easy trails loop around the lake, passing rock formations and viewpoints. The 30-meter-deep water makes swimming tempting, but check safety signs first!
  • Picnic spots: Grassy areas near the shore are perfect for laying out a blanket. Local vendors sell grilled riverfish—don’t miss it!
  • Photography: Sunrise and sunset turn the lake into a canvas of pink, gold, and blue. The Full Moon Rock is a top spot to catch reflections.

Practical Tips

  • Entrance: Free! (Though some boat rentals or guided tours may cost extra.)
  • Facilities: Clean restrooms, parking lots, and a small café near the main entrance. Bring cash, as cards aren’t widely accepted.
  • Best time to visit: Spring and autumn—too hot in summer, and winter can be foggy.
  • Combine with: Nearby Luokeng Hollow (a karst wonder) or Bi Mountain (for hot pot and city vibes).

Why You’ll Love Jintang Lake

It’s rare to find a place so close to a megacity like Chongqing yet worlds away in tranquility. Whether you’re paddling through mist-kissed waters, snapping photos of rock art, or simply soaking in the hillside views, Jintang Lake feels like a secret only locals share. Come early, stay late, and let the lake’s 108 scenes tell their own story.