Reflecting on Qinghai Lake’s beauty
Print Edition
EDITOR’S note
The term “national park” in China covers a wider range of places than in many other countries. Chinese national parks, also known as “national scenic and historic interest areas,” include both the country’s areas of scenic beauty and its historic preservation sites. From magnificent snow-capped mountains to sunny beaches, emperors’ mausoleums to a 2,000-year-old dam, China has 225 national parks. This column brings them to you, with all their natural beauty and historical legends.
Simultaneously featuring snow-peaked mountains, a fabled blue lake and vast grasslands speckled with herds of sheep and Tibetan Yak, Qinghai Lake National Park has long attracted tourists with its unique charm.
Located about 100 kilometers west of Xining, the provincial capital of Qinghai in northwest China, Qinghai Lake is the biggest inland salt lake in China. It covers a total area of 4,317 square kilometers — at 3,205 meters above sea level. Being in a depression of the Tibetan plateau, Qinghai Lake is surrounded by the magnificent Datong Mountain to the north, the winding Nanshan Mountain in the south, Rubber Mountain in the west and Riyue Mountain in the east.
The first recorded mention of Qinghai Lake dates to the Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 220). Whether using the Lake’s Chinese name Qinghai, or the Tibetan name Tsongon Po, or its Mongolian moniker Kokonor, these names all share the same meaning: “blue sea.” Indeed, the water of Qinghai lake is so exceptionally clear that people can often see schools of fish below the surface.
Among its diverse aquatic species, the naked carp are the most famous and abundant. These indigenous creatures have survived the salinity for more than 200 years. Yet, though they are edible, the local government has banned people from catching them in order to protect the species and the ecosystem.
Besides the crystal clear lake, other must-see attractions in the Qinghai Lake National Park include: Bird Island and the Sand Island, located on the lake’s northeastern and western shores respectively.
Bird Island is home to thousands of migratory birds. Qinghai Lake is located at the crossroads of several bird migration routes across Asia. Bird Island is a wonderful place for photography and for people to observe all manner of birds. Late April to June is the best time to visit the island. That is when hundreds of thousands of birds nest here.
Sand Island impresses tourists with its bizarre landscape: surrounded by grassy tundra and snowy mountains, the desolate island stands out as it is mostly covered with sand and reeds. Yet, complimenting its unique features, the brilliant blue water alongside the dunes and snow-capped peaks in the distance make for stunning views. Besides its beautiful scenery, Sand Island also offers activities such as camel riding, water motorcycles, and sand surfing.
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