Jingpo Lake is China's largest volcanic barrier lake, with the Diaoshuilou Waterfall, basalt formations and forested shores. It is a summer and autumn retreat and can be paired with Mudanjiang's city sights.
Jingpo Lake in Ning'an is a long, narrow lake formed when lava dammed the Mudan River. Its highlights are the Diaoshuilou Waterfall, basalt caverns, a national geopark and the volcanic forest. It is much farther than other day trips, so most visitors stay in Mudanjiang or near the lake overnight.
| Distance | About 300 km southeast of Harbin to Mudanjiang; Jingpo Lake is about 100 km beyond |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 2 hours by high-speed train to Mudanjiang plus 1.5-2 hours by coach or taxi to Jingpo Lake |
| Getting there | Mode: Train and car; Detail: High-speed train to Mudanjiang, then coach or taxi to Jingpo Lake and the Diaoshuilou Waterfall |
| Cost | Train ¥120-150 (~$18-22) each way + coach/taxi ¥150-300 (~$22-45) + admission about ¥80-130 (~$12-19) |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Address | Jingpo Lake Scenic Area, Ning'an City, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang (镜泊湖景区) |
How to get there
- High-speed train Harbin to Mudanjiang: about 1 hr 45 min to 2 hr 15 min, ¥120-150 (~$18-22)
- Coach or taxi Mudanjiang to Jingpo Lake: 1.5-2 hours, ¥150-300 (~$22-45)
- Chartered car from Harbin: about 4-5 hours each way, ¥1,500-2,200 (~$224-328)
Location
Jingpo Lake Scenic Area, Ning'an City, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang (镜泊湖景区)
43.9313, 128.8461 View on map
Highlights
- Diaoshuilou Waterfall (吊水楼瀑布)
- Boat trip on Jingpo Lake
- Underground volcanic forest (火山口地下森林)
- Autumn foliage and winter ice fishing
Tips for visiting
- Treat this as a 2-day trip; a single day is exhausting
- The waterfall flow is highest in summer
- Book a hotel near the lake for an overnight stay
- Bring warm clothing even in summer evenings
When to visit
July to September for the waterfall; late September for foliage.
Accessibility
Viewing platforms are accessible in places but the waterfall trails have steps. Distances are long.
Frequently asked questions
Can I do Jingpo Lake in one day from Harbin?
It is possible but tiring, with about 7-8 hours of travel; an overnight is much better.
What is the best season?
Summer for the waterfall and boat trips, and autumn for foliage.
How do I reach the lake from Mudanjiang?
Take a coach or taxi from Mudanjiang, about 1.5-2 hours.
Is there winter activity?
Ice fishing and snow scenery, but some facilities close.