Baofeng Lake, Zhangjiajie, Hunan

Tucked within the Wulingyuan Scenic Area of Zhangjiajie, Hunan province, Baofeng Lake offers a distinctive waterscape. Part of the Wulingyuan UNESCO World Heritage site, it is the only major scenic area within the site centered on a lake. Surrounded by towering peaks, its clear waters mirror the surrounding rugged landscape, creating the classic high-gorge lake scene. The vista has earned it a reputation as a "classic lake of the world".

Board a boat and glide into the lake. The emerald water winds with the mountains, while dramatic peaks unfold one after another. Look up, and Baofeng Waterfall cascades from the cliffs above, its rushing water echoing through the valley. Along the way, you'll also hear Sangzhi folk songs — a national-level item of intangible cultural heritage — performed by Tujia singers on the boats. Their melodies add a distinctive local flavor to the surrounding mountain scenery.

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