Princess Lake Travel Guide!

Princess Lake is located in Weichang Manchu and Mongolian Autonomous County, Chengde City, Hebei Province, and is one of the famous attractions within the Saihanba National Forest Park. It attracts numerous visitors with its beautiful lake and mountain scenery and rich grassland charm. Here is a detailed travel guide: --- **1. Basic Information** - **Location**: Northern part of the Saihanba Mechanical Forest Farm in Weichang County, Chengde City (near the Ulan Butong Grassland). - **Ticket**: Usually included in the Saihanba scenic area ticket (approximately ¥130/person, subject to official notice). - **Opening Hours**: Open year-round, with the best visiting period from June to October (lush greenery in summer, vibrant foliage in autumn). --- **2. Transportation** 1. **Self-Driving** (Recommended) - From Beijing: Jingcheng Expressway → Daguang Expressway → Weichang County → Saihanba Scenic Area (about 5-6 hours in total). - Princess Lake is located within the scenic area. Enter Saihanba first, then navigate to "Princess Lake" (about 30 km from the Mechanical Forest Farm). - Note: Some sections are winding mountain roads, so experienced drivers are advised. 2. **Public Transport** - Take a bus from Beijing's Liuliqiao or Sihui Bus Station to Weichang County, then hire a car or share a ride to Saihanba (about 2 hours). - No public transport within the scenic area; self-driving or renting a local off-road vehicle is recommended. --- **3. Highlights** 1. **Scenic Lake and Mountains** - Princess Lake is small but features clear water surrounded by birch forests and grasslands, with picturesque reflections, making it ideal for photography. - The soft light at dawn and dusk, with golden reflections on the lake, makes it perfect for sunrise and sunset shots. 2. **Grassland Charm** - Herders graze their livestock by the lake, with flocks of sheep and cattle visible. Wildflowers bloom in summer, and birch forests turn golden in autumn. 3. **Legend** - It is said that Princess Lanqi, daughter of Emperor Kangxi, passed by here and shed tears of homesickness, forming the lake—hence the name "Princess Lake." --- **4. Recommended Activities** - **Photography**: Lakeside wooden boardwalks, birch forests, and observation decks (for panoramic views). - **Horseback Riding**: Local herders offer horseback riding (about ¥50-100/hour, negotiable). - **Lakeside Walk**: A leisurely 1-2 hour walk around the lake. - **Picnics and Camping**: The grassy lakeside is perfect for picnics (no open flames, please protect the environment). --- **5. Nearby Attractions** 1. **Saihanba Scenic Area**: Qixing Lake, Taifeng Lake, Mechanical Forest Farm. 2. **Ulan Butong Grassland** (separate ticket required): General’s Lake, Hamaba, Film and TV Base. 3. **Red Mountain Horse Ranch**: Horseback riding and off-road adventures on the grassland. --- **6. Accommodation Suggestions** - **Saihanba Mechanical Forest Farm**: Concentrated lodging with better facilities (e.g., Saihanba Hotel, guesthouses). - **Ulan Butong Scenic Area**: More options but requires about 1 hour of driving. - Book in advance during peak seasons (July-August, National Day), as prices are higher. --- **7. Tips** 1. **Weather and Clothing**: - Large temperature differences between day and night; bring a jacket even in summer, and a down jacket in autumn/winter. - Sun protection is essential (sunglasses, hat, sunscreen) due to strong UV rays on the grassland. 2. **Road Conditions**: Some gravel roads may be muddy during the rainy season; SUVs are recommended. 3. **Eco-Friendly**: Do not litter; protect the grassland ecosystem. 4. **Costs**: Some activities (horseback riding, off-roading) are negotiable; avoid overcharging. --- **8. Sample Itinerary (2-Day Trip)** - **Day 1**: Beijing → Saihanba (Qixing Lake, Taifeng Lake) → Stay at Mechanical Forest Farm. - **Day 2**: Princess Lake → Ulan Butong (General’s Lake) → Return. --- Princess Lake is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and leisure travelers. Combining it with Saihanba and Ulan Butong enhances the experience!