Erhai Lake

Erhai Lake ("Ear Sea") is a 250-square-kilometre freshwater lake sitting at 1,972 metres above sea level in the Dali basin of Yunnan province, its distinctive ear-shaped outline giving it its name. With the snow-capped peaks of Cang Shan reflected in its famously clear waters, Erhai is one of the most scenic lakes in China. The lake's shores are dotted with traditional Bai villages — notably Zhoucheng (tie-dye capital), Xizhou (well-preserved Bai architecture and excellent local food), and Shuanglang (photogenic fishing pier) — accessible by bicycle, local bus, or boat. Cormorant fishing on the lake at sunrise is an iconic image of the region; local fishermen still use trained cormorants to catch fish, though today largely for tourism. Erhai is a protected nature reserve; motor boat access is restricted and swimming is not permitted, keeping the water unusually clean.