The Bacheng shore of Yangcheng Lake is known for its hairy crab season, with lakeside restaurants and fishing villages.
The Bacheng section of Yangcheng Lake lies in Bacheng Town in north Kunshan, Jiangsu province, China. The lake is famous across China for its hairy crab, and the Bacheng shore is lined with lakeside restaurants and fishing villages. Visitors come to walk the shoreline, watch the fishing boats and eat freshly cooked crab with local dishes. The shoreline is free to visit and open at all times, while lakeside venues operate roughly from 09:00 to 18:00. Crab meals are paid separately and typically cost between CNY 80 and 300 per person. A visit takes two to three hours. The best time is October to November, the hairy crab season, when restaurants are busiest and the crabs are considered at their best. Visitors should eat only at licensed restaurants and ask for the price per jin before ordering, because prices vary by crab size and sex. Spring is also pleasant for walking when the weather is mild. The lake is about 30 to 40 minutes by taxi from Kunshan Station, costing roughly CNY 70 to 100. The area suits food lovers and couples looking for a relaxed lakeside meal. Photographers can capture the open water and fishing boats, particularly in the early morning. Facilities outside the restaurants are limited, so visitors should plan meals and return transport in advance. Weekends in crab season can be crowded and tables may need to be reserved.
| Admission | Free shoreline; crab meals paid separately |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open at all times; lakeside venues approx. 09:00-18:00 |
| Typical visit | 2-3 hours |
| Best time | October-November (hairy crab season) |
| Getting there | From Kunshan Station taxi 30-40 minutes (CNY 70-100 / ~$10-15) |
| Address | Yangcheng Lake, Bacheng Town, Kunshan (昆山巴城阳澄湖) |
Good to know
- Best for
- food lovers, couples
Location
Yangcheng Lake, Bacheng Town, Kunshan (昆山巴城阳澄湖)
31.4450, 120.8950 View on map
Highlights
- Bacheng shore of Yangcheng Lake
- Hairy crab season in October and November
- Lakeside restaurants and fishing villages
- Free shoreline walking
Tips for visiting
- Eat crab only at licensed restaurants and ask for the price per jin before ordering
When to visit
October to November for hairy crab season. Book restaurant tables ahead on weekends.
Accessibility
The shoreline is generally flat, but surfaces vary and restaurants may have steps. Check access with individual venues.
Frequently asked questions
When is hairy crab season?
October to November is the main season.
How can visitors avoid overpaying for crab?
Eat at licensed restaurants and ask for the price per jin before ordering.
How long does a visit take?
Two to three hours including a meal.