The closest Qīnghǎi Lake tourist spot to Xīníng, this site 150km west of town consists of a Chinese-style sightseeing village backing on to the shores of the lake. A long pier allows you to walk out over the calm waters, and on a clear day there are glorious views of the surrounding mountains, as well as the ruin of the Torpedo Launch Experiment Base , China’s first torpedo testing site set up in the 1960s. Though far from the most scenic spot in the area, if you’re pressed for time, this is the best way to catch a glimpse of Qīnghǎi Lake without shelling out too much money or doing an overnight.
There are a number of ways to move around the site, including a trolley bus (¥10) that leaves from the main entrance and carries you down to the lakeshore. It’s an easy 10-minute walk, though, and there are also bicycles for hire (¥15 per hour), which makes for the most pleasant way to explore the area.
Dedicated buses depart regularly from Xīníng’s Bayi Road Bus Station and cost ¥37 each way. Don’t forget to purchase a ticket for your return journey at the Èrlángjiàn ticket window.
