Guizhou lake charms with blazing color, geologic wonder

Red Maple Lake in Guizhou province just an hour's drive from the capital Guiyang has become increasingly popular for tourists to enjoy its dramatic landscape and rich ethnic cultures.

Not surprisingly, the lake is surrounded by a maple forest that turns red in autumn, providing a blaze of color amid blue sky that is mirrored in the crystal-clear water of the lake.

The largest manmade reservoir in the province, Red Maple - or Hongfeng in Chinese - Lake covers 57.2 sq km, more than six times the size of West Lake in Hangzhou, and has four distinct areas.

The northern part of the lake has a range of islands named for their shapes, including Bird Island, Snake Island and Tortoise Island.

Near its bank are a group of tombs built in Western Han Dynasty and military defense structures built by the Miao ethnic group in Ming Dynasty , testament to the turmoil of ancient times.

Near the south bank of the lake are a great number of karst caves in the surrounding mountains with stalactites inside that create a geologic wonderland.

The lake flows into some of the caves, providing the opportunity for underground boating to view stone formations that resemble flowers, trees, bamboo shoots, animals and curtains hanging above.

The middle part of the lake is famed for surrounding steep cliffs and lofty mountains on either side.

Its rock outcrops, resembling figures like graceful ladies and reclining Buddhas inspire imaginary tales.

Many branching streams also crisscross the scenic area.

Unique customs from Guizhou's 49 ethnic groups add to the charm. Nearly 38 percent of the province's population is composed of minority peoples.

Beginning in the late 1980s villages of the Miao, Dong and Bouyei minorities became tourist attractions along the lake.

Village tours display their customs and cultures, including dances and a cappella harmonies by the Dong people. Tasting local foods has become a perquisite on the itinerary of a trip to Red Maple Lake.

The province's capital Guiyang itself is an eco-friendly city with a green belt of more than 70 km long.

With a year-round temperature averaging 15.3 C - even in the hottest days of July, the average temperature is around 24 C - the city is winning a reputation as summer resort.

Source: China Daily