Diexi Haizi Maoxian: Earthquake Barrier Lake & Sunken City

Diexi Haizi (叠溪海子), also called Diexi Lake, is a turquoise barrier lake in Maoxian County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. Unlike typical glacial lakes of the Eastern Tibetan Plateau, this body of water was born from tragedy: a 7.5-magnitude earthquake on August 25, 1933, which triggered massive landslides that dammed the Minjiang River and buried the ancient town of Diexi. Today, the lake sits at about 2,300 meters (7,546 feet) elevation and serves as a hauntingly beautiful stop for travelers en route to Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong.

The lake’s emerald green water, framed by steep mountains, remnants of Qiang watchtowers, and commemorative monuments, draws visitors interested in geological disasters, Qiang culture, and Chinese revolutionary history. Below we cover the site’s formation, practical visiting information, cultural significance, and how to decide whether this stop fits your trip.

The Formation and History of Diexi Haizi

The 1933 Diexi Earthquake

On the evening of August 25, 1933, a 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck the Diexi area. The earthquake triggered enormous landslides that slid into the Minjiang River valley, creating a natural dam. Within minutes, the river was blocked, and water began to back up, eventually forming a chain of five barrier lakes covering roughly 1.3 million square meters. The main lake, now called Diexi Haizi, is the most accessible.

The earthquake also completely buried the old Diexi town, a strategic settlement on the ancient Tea Horse Road. The town, along with many of its inhabitants, was submerged under the rising waters. Today, the lake’s surface hides the ruins, sometimes called the “Underwater Qiang City” or the “Pompeii of the East.” On extremely clear days, or by boat, visitors may see faint outlines of stone streets and walls beneath the water, though this is not guaranteed.

The Legend of the “Tears of the Goddess”

Local Qiang folklore offers a more poetic explanation for the lake’s creation. According to legend, a goddess wept for the destruction of her people, and her tears filled the valley. The water is said to be eternally protected by the goddess, and the lake is revered as a sacred site. White stones, a key symbol in Qiang religion, are placed on rooftops and altars around the lake to ward off evil and bring blessings.

The Red Army’s Long March Connection

In 1935, during the Long March, the Red Army passed through Diexi. They rested by the lake and formed alliances with local Qiang villagers, who provided guides and food. Monuments and plaques along the lakeshore commemorate this episode of unity between the Red Army and the Qiang people. For travelers interested in revolutionary history, the site offers a tangible connection to China’s 20th-century struggles.

Visitor Experience and Highlights

Viewing the Lake from the Road

The easiest way to experience Diexi Haizi is from the roadside viewing platforms along the highway from Maoxian to Jiuzhaigou (Route G213 / G213 National Highway). These platforms provide panoramic views of the turquoise water, the surrounding mountains, and the remnants of old watchtowers that survived the earthquake.

Most visitors stop here for 20 to 40 minutes to photograph and absorb the scenery. The lake is free to view from these public platforms; no ticket is required.

Submerged Ancient City

The most intriguing aspect of Diexi Haizi is the submerged town. Although the visible ruins are limited, the mystery of the lost Qiang city adds depth to the visit. Local stories claim that on calm, sunny days, one can see the outlines of buildings beneath the surface.

However, this is highly dependent on water clarity, lighting, and viewing angle. Some boat tours may operate (verify locally), which could bring visitors closer to the underwater structures. The site is often compared to China’s “Pompeii of the East,” though preserved by water rather than volcanic ash.

Qiang Culture and White Stone Worship

Surrounding the lake, small Qiang villages still practice traditional ways. You may see white stones placed on rooftops, altars, and road corners. The Qiang are known as the “People on the Clouds” and have a distinct language, architecture, and religion.

Their watchtowers—tall, stone, and windowless—are scattered across the landscape and withstood the 1933 earthquake. These towers are part of the region’s UNESCO World Heritage tentative list as examples of Qiang defensive architecture.

Red Army Long March Monuments

Several stone monuments and a small memorial pavilion near the lake detail the Red Army’s passage in 1935. These sites are often accompanied by historical plaques. While not as extensive as formal Red Army museums, they provide a meaningful stop for history buffs.

Photography Tips

• Best light for photography is early morning or late afternoon, when the sun illuminates the turquoise water and mountains.
• Autumn (September–November) offers warm golden foliage on the slopes, contrasting with the green lake.
• Summer (June–August) provides green hills and clear skies, but haze can occur.
• Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance water color.
• The viewing platforms are safe and stable; tripods are fine.

Practical Information for Visiting Diexi Haizi

Location and Altitude

Diexi Haizi is located in Diexi Town, Maoxian County, Aba Prefecture, Sichuan Province. The lake’s center is at approximately 32.05°N, 103.68°E. It sits at an altitude of about 2,300 meters (7,546 feet). This is moderate compared to Tibet but can still affect travelers who are not acclimated to altitude.

Altitude Safety

At 2,300 meters, altitude sickness is possible but less common than above 3,000 meters. Symptoms may include mild headache, dizziness, or shortness of breath upon exertion. Travelers coming directly from Chengdu (500 m) should take it easy on the first day. The viewing platforms involve only short walks, so the risk is low. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and move slowly if you feel unwell.

Best Seasons

• Summer (June–August): Warm temperatures, green surroundings, and clear skies. Ideal for road trips.
• Autumn (September–November): Cool, crisp air and fall foliage. The lake’s color is most vivid.
• Winter (December–February): Cold, with potential snow. Some viewpoints may be icy. The lake does not freeze entirely but can be less colorful.
• Spring (March–May): Pleasant but unpredictable weather; occasional rain.

Suggested Duration

A stop at Diexi Haizi takes about 2–3 hours if you include walking the platforms, reading the historical plaques, and taking photos. If you want to explore more of the surrounding Qiang villages or take a boat tour, budget 3–4 hours.

Ticket and Fees

The roadside viewing platforms are free. There may be separate fees for boat tours, entering a cultural village, or parking (usually nominal). Confirm locally as policies can change. No official ticket price was available at the time of writing.

How to Get There

• By car: Diexi Haizi is located on the highway from Maoxian to Jiuzhaigou (G213). It is about 60 km from Maoxian County town and roughly 250 km from Chengdu. The drive from Chengdu takes 4–5 hours.
• By bus: Buses from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou often pass by the lake, but they rarely stop. You may need to arrange a private car or take a regular bus to Maoxian and then a local bus to Diexi.
• By tour: Many Jiuzhaigou group tours include a brief stop at Diexi Haizi.

Accommodation

Most travelers do not stay overnight at Diexi. Overnight options are available in Maoxian County town (hotels and guesthouses) or further north at Songpan. Diexi itself has limited lodging. Plan to visit as a day stop.

Who Should Visit vs. Who Should Skip

Best Suited For

• Travelers on a road trip from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou or Huanglong who want a scenic break.
• History and geology enthusiasts interested in earthquake-formed landscapes and submerged ruins.
• Culture seekers curious about Qiang traditions and White Stone worship.
• Photographers capturing dramatic mountain, water, and cultural scenes.

When You Might Skip

• If you have limited time and only want to focus on Jiuzhaigou’s more famous lakes, Diexi can be omitted without missing the main draw.
• If you are prone to altitude sensitivity and feel low energy, the short stop might not be worth the detour, though altitude is moderate.
• In winter when views may be obscured by clouds or rain, the lake loses some of its appeal.

Route Logic and Nearby Attractions

Diexi Haizi sits directly on the well-traveled road between Maoxian and Jiuzhaigou (G213). It is often visited as part of a Chengdu–Songpan–Jiuzhaigou itinerary. Some nearby attractions include:

• Maoxian County: Home to the Qiang Museum and Taoping Qiang Village (a well-preserved fortress village).
• Songpan Ancient Town: A historic frontier town with a Tibetan monastery and city walls.
• Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area: About 120 km north, the famous UNESCO World Heritage site with color-changing lakes and waterfalls.
• Huanglong Scenic Area: Known for its travertine pools, about 90 km from Diexi via Songpan.

If you are driving north, consider spending 20–40 minutes at Diexi Haizi, then proceeding to Songpan or Jiuzhaigou.

Frequently Asked Questions

How was Diexi Haizi formed?

It was formed on August 25, 1933, when a 7.5-magnitude earthquake caused landslides that blocked the Minjiang River, creating a barrier lake.

Can I see the ancient town underwater?

The ruins of the ancient Diexi town are submerged. On very clear days or via boat, faint outlines of structures may be visible, but this is not guaranteed. The site is known as the “Underwater Qiang City.”

Where is Diexi Haizi located?

It is in Diexi Town, Maoxian County, Aba Prefecture, Sichuan Province, about 60 km from the Maoxian county seat, on the road to Jiuzhaigou.

What is the altitude?

The lake sits at approximately 2,300 meters above sea level.

Is there an entrance fee?

Viewing the lake from the roadside platforms is free. There may be fees for boat rides or entering nearby cultural villages; confirm locally.

What is the best time of day to visit?

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography and fewer crowds.

Is the lake safe to swim in?

No. Swimming is not recommended due to unknown water conditions, safety concerns, and cultural respect.

How long should I stay?

Plan 2–3 hours for a casual stop; longer if you want to explore villages or take a boat.

Is altitude sickness a concern at 2,300m?

It can cause mild symptoms in some people, but it is not extreme. Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity, and rest if needed.

Final Thoughts

Diexi Haizi is more than a pretty lake; it is a geological scar and a cultural archive. For those traveling through the Aba region, it provides a meaningful pause between the bustling cities and the high-altitude landscapes of Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong. Its combination of natural beauty, earthquake history, Qiang heritage, and Long March reminiscence makes it a unique Sichuan attraction.

Plan your stop with flexibility, check local conditions for boat tours, and respect the lake as a place of historical memory. If you have time, combine it with Taoping Qiang Village and Songpan Ancient Town for a deeper understanding of the region’s multi-layered history.