Also known as Huajing Lake (Flower Path Lake) and West Lake, Ruqin Lake is located in the West Valley southwest of Guling Town, Mount Lushan Scenic Area, Jiujiang City, Jiangxi Province, at an altitude of about 1040 meters. Completed in 1961 by damming the upper valley of Tianqiao, this man-made lake gets its name from its violin-like outline and the ancient stone carving "Ruqin" by the lake. It is the starting point of the west route tour of Mount Lushan, connecting premium attractions such as Huajing Park, Bai Juyi's Thatched Cottage, Feilai Stone, Jinxiu Valley and Immortal Cave. It is an ideal destination for photography, poetry research and leisurely walks, with no extra ticket required as it is covered by the general Mount Lushan scenic area ticket.
Why Ruqin Lake Is a Must-Visit
Stunning Natural Scenery & Unique Lake Shape
- Overlooking from a high point, the lake presents the shape of a violin, with an oval central island connected to the shore by a zig-zag bridge.
- The lake surface is like a mirror in the morning mist, and the golden light shimmers at sunset, creating a classic Chinese garden landscape with pavilions and terraces.
- Feilai Stone, a glacial relic on the east side of the lake, provides an outdoor geological education opportunity.
Rich Poetry & Cultural Heritage
- The real scene of Bai Juyi's famous poem "Peach Blossoms in the Dalin Temple".
- Huajing Pavilion with the stone carving "Huajing" (Flower Path), which is said to be in Bai Juyi's handwriting, Jingbai Pavilion, Bai Juyi's statue and the Thatched Cottage Exhibition Hall.
- You can appreciate the artistic conception of the verse "All flowers in the world have faded in late spring, but peach blossoms are just in full bloom in the mountain temple".
Four Seasons of Beautiful Scenery & Convenient Route
- Spring: Peach blossoms and azaleas are in full bloom; Summer: Dense shade and cool lake water; Autumn: Red maple leaves and ginkgo trees; Winter: Rime scenery and snow-covered lake.
- It is the starting point of the west route of Mount Lushan. It is a half-day essence route from Ruqin Lake to Huajing, Jinxiu Valley and Immortal Cave.
Key Highlights
Practical Visiting Information
- Ticket: No separate ticket, included in the general ticket of Mount Lushan Scenic Area. Sightseeing bus is an additional purchase.
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day all year round. The exhibition halls in Huajing Park are open according to the scenic area announcement.
- Transportation: Take the scenic sightseeing bus to Huajing Station. It is also a 15-minute walk from the Guling Town Center.
- Dress Code & Tips: Wear non-slip shoes, especially in winter. Bring sun protection and mosquito repellent in summer. Visit between 08:00 and 18:00 for the best light.
- Environmental Protection: No swimming, fishing or feeding animals in the lake. Protect the vegetation and stone carvings on the lake shore.
Who Should Visit
- Photographers: Capture the violin-shaped lake, morning mist reflections, sunset golden waves and the combination of pavilions and terraces.
- Poetry & Cultural Study Groups: Immerse in the cultural heritage of Bai Juyi and the Tang poetry.
- Light Hiking Enthusiasts: Take the west route to hike from Ruqin Lake to Immortal Cave, enjoying the natural scenery and cultural relics along the way.
- Mount Lushan Deep Tourists: An indispensable starting point for the west route tour of Mount Lushan.