Baogong Lake

What are the most recommended things to do in Baogong Lake?

Stroll around the picturesque Baogong Lake, taking in the beautiful landscapes and serene environment.
Visit the Baogong Temple, dedicated to the famous historical figure Bao Zheng, who is known for his fairness and integrity.
Take a boat ride on the lake to enjoy the view of the surrounding greenery and pavilions.
Relax in the park area and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, perfect for a quiet afternoon.

Introducing Baogong Lake

Baogong Lake is located within the city walls of Kaifeng, Henan Province, within the ancient Song Dynasty city walls, in the southwest corner of the ancient city. The lake runs northwest-southeast, resembling a reclining gourd. Yingbin Road, a north-south road, spans the lake in the west-central part, while Baogong Hunan Road lies to the southwest. Surrounding the lake are historical sites such as the Baogong Temple and Yanqing Temple.

Legend has it that when Bao Gong was a child, his second sister-in-law, fearing he would share the family fortune when he grew up, coaxed him to play by a well. Suddenly, she pushed him into the well. Fortunately, it was dry, and Bao Gong escaped unhurt. Suddenly, a flash of light appeared before his eyes. He picked it up and examined it carefully, revealing it to be an ancient crescent-shaped mirror. Its smooth, luminous surface revealed scenes of his second brother and sister-in-law repeatedly plotting to harm him, while they celebrated in their room, drunken and triumphant. Bao Gong realized it was a precious mirror, affixed to his forehead with great care. Strangely enough, the mirror could no longer be removed; it had become a permanent fixture on his forehead.

Later, the Yellow River burst its banks, and the Southern Yamen of Kaifeng Prefecture became a lake. The precious mirror sank to the bottom, leaving the water crystal clear and as smooth as a mirror. It is said that those who had done something wrong never dared to pass by the lake, fearing that the precious mirror would reveal their secrets and bring upon them severe punishment from Lord Bao. To commemorate Lord Bao, the locals named the lake Lord Bao Lake.

Climate and best time to travel

The warm temperate humid monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Baogong Lake is located within Kaifeng City, Henan Province, within the ancient Song Dynasty city walls, in the southwest corner of the ancient city. The lake runs northwest-southeast, resembling a reclining gourd. The lake is surrounded by distinctive architecture, and the water is crystal clear. Despite being located in the Central Plains, it evokes the charm of a Jiangnan water town. On summer evenings, the highway along the lake is a popular spot for cool strolls. Adjacent to the scenic area is the Kaifeng Prefecture Scenic Area, where visitors can explore Kaifeng Prefecture, the capital of the Northern Song Dynasty.

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

60 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

Most Popular FAQs for Baogong Lake

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Baogong Lake is named after Bao Zheng, a famous and respected judge from the Song Dynasty. The lake and its surrounding park are dedicated to celebrating his legacy of justice and fairness. Bao Zheng's statue and temple can be found near the lake, making it a site of historical significance in Kaifeng.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Baogong Lake is located in the western part of Kaifeng. You can easily get there by taxi or local bus. It’s also accessible by walking if you are staying near the city center.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The park is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon, avoiding peak tourist hours to enjoy the peaceful environment.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is around 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and online booking is generally not required.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is not necessary. You can buy tickets on-site when you arrive.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Baogong Lake will take around 1 to 1.5 hours, including a leisurely walk around the lake and a visit to the temple.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The Baogong Temple, which honors the legacy of Bao Zheng.
The lake itself, which offers scenic views and the opportunity for boat rides.
The statue of Bao Zheng located near the temple.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in English may not be readily available, so it’s advisable to check in advance or hire a private guide.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The Baogong Temple offers great views of the surrounding area.
The lake itself, especially during sunrise or sunset, is ideal for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the Baogong Temple, then walk around the lake. If you have extra time, take a boat ride and enjoy the views from the water.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not typically available, but the lake and park are beautifully illuminated in the evening, making it a lovely spot for a nighttime stroll.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

It can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings, especially in the off-peak season.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are rest areas, public toilets, and food vendors in the surrounding area. You can also find small shops selling souvenirs near the park entrance.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The attraction is accessible for elderly and children, but some areas near the temple and lake may have uneven paths. Wheelchair access may be limited, so it’s worth checking ahead if needed.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash, mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay), and some credit cards are accepted at the entrance and nearby shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants near Baogong Lake, serving Kaifeng-style dishes such as braised noodles and dumplings. Small cafés are also available for refreshments.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in many local restaurants, and some establishments may offer halal food due to Kaifeng’s Muslim population.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few hotels and guesthouses near the lake, including mid-range options like the Kaifeng International Hotel. Budget accommodations are also available in the area.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

The Iron Pagoda, a famous historical landmark of Kaifeng.
The Dragon Pavilion, a traditional palace complex with beautiful gardens.
Kaifeng’s Ancient City Wall, which is perfect for a historical walk.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near Baogong Lake selling traditional Chinese handicrafts, such as paper-cutting, tea sets, and small figurines of Bao Zheng.