Baiyangdian Wetlands
The largest freshwater wetland in North China, known as the Pearl of North China and the Kidney of North China

Key Information
Area
366 square kilometers
Number of Lakes
143 interconnected lakes
Best Time to Visit
April to October
UNESCO Status
Ramsar Wetland of International Importance
Main Attractions
Lotus Garden, Fishing Villages, Reed Marshes
Bird Species
Over 200 species recorded
Water Depth
Average 2-4 meters
Annual Visitors
Over 1 million
Local Specialty
Baiyangdian Fish, Lotus Products
Cultural Significance
Revolutionary Base Area during Anti-Japanese War
Baiyangdian Wetlands is the largest freshwater wetland in North China, located about 150 kilometers south of Beijing in Hebei Province. Covering an area of approximately 366 square kilometers, this magnificent wetland ecosystem consists of 143 interconnected lakes and thousands of hectares of reed marshes. The name Baiyangdian means White Poplar Lake, referring to the white poplar trees that once grew abundantly around its shores. This wetland plays a crucial ecological role as a natural water purification system and habitat for numerous bird species, earning it the nickname Kidney of North China. The area is also famous for its rich cultural heritage, being the setting for many revolutionary stories during the Anti-Japanese War and serving as inspiration for numerous literary works. The wetland features traditional fishing villages, ancient water towns, and unique floating communities where people have lived in harmony with the water for centuries.
Things to Do
- Take a traditional wooden boat tour through the intricate network of waterways and channels
- Visit the Baiyangdian Revolutionary Memorial Hall to learn about the areas wartime history
- Explore the traditional fishing villages and floating communities on the water
- Go bird watching to spot migratory birds including cranes
- herons
- and egrets
- Experience traditional fishing methods with local fishermen
- Visit the Lotus Garden during summer when thousands of lotus flowers bloom
- Try local delicacies like braised fish
- lotus root dishes
- and reed shoot soup
- Walk along the wetland boardwalks and observation platforms
- Visit the Baiyangdian Museum to learn about wetland ecology and conservation
- Take a sunset cruise to see the wetlands golden hour transformation
Tourism Guide