Hechuan, Chongqing

Shuanglong Lake: The "Little West Lake" of Northern Chongqing and a Cradle of Champions

📸Photography 🏕️Camping

Altitude

285m

Best Time

🌸 🍂

Ticket

Free

ℹ️

About This Attraction

Shuanglong Lake (Double Dragon Lake) is a picturesque freshwater lake located in the Hechuan District of Chongqing Municipality. Situated approximately 26 kilometers from the urban center of Hechuan, this sprawling body of water is not only a scenic gem known for its tranquility and pastoral beauty but also a site of significant sporting heritage. Originally formed as a reservoir in the late 1950s, the lake has evolved into a comprehensive hydraulic scenic area that integrates irrigation, water conservation, tourism, and aquaculture. It is affectionately referred to by locals as the "Little West Lake of Northern Chongqing" due to its expansive water surface and the poetic arrangement of surrounding hills and vegetation.

The lake derives its name, Shuanglong, from a vivid geographical feature: two main tributaries of the lake wind through the undulating hills like two giant dragons frolicking in the water, eventually converging to form the main body of the lake. The lake covers a water surface area of over 6,000 mu (approximately 4 square kilometers) and stretches for about 15 kilometers. Its shoreline is incredibly intricate, creating numerous bays, peninsulas, and secluded coves that offer visitors a sense of exploration and privacy. The water is renowned for its clarity, reflecting the lush greenery of the surrounding hills, which are planted with orchards, bamboo groves, and evergreen forests.

One of the most defining characteristics of Shuanglong Lake is its status as a training base for water sports. Due to its calm waters, wide expanse, and favorable climate, it has served as a winter training ground for provincial and national rowing, canoeing, and dragon boat teams. It is often hailed as the "Cradle of Champions," having nurtured numerous athletes who have gone on to win medals in national and international competitions. Visitors to the lake can often see athletes training, their boats cutting through the misty surface in the early morning, adding a dynamic and athletic spirit to the serene landscape.

Beyond its sporting significance, Shuanglong Lake is a haven for rural tourism and leisure. The lake is dotted with small islands and surrounded by distinctive rock formations and caves, such as the "Dragon Pearl Island" and various karst features typical of the region. Tourists can enjoy boat rides on the lake, navigating through the "Dragon's Body" to admire the changing scenery. The area is also a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, known for its rich aquatic life. In spring, the surrounding hills burst into color with peach and plum blossoms, while autumn brings the harvest of citrus fruits, making it a delightful destination for agritourism and fruit picking. Whether you are looking for a quiet place to camp by the water, a scenic route for a road trip, or a glimpse into the training lives of elite athletes, Shuanglong Lake offers a refreshing escape into nature's embrace.

✨ Why Visit Shuanglong Lake

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A large artificial reservoir with clear water, surrounded by rolling green hills and forested shores

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The lake's name originates from two dragon-shaped peninsulas that extend into the water body

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A scenic area featuring traditional pavilions and bridges integrated into the natural lakeside landscape

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Known for its tranquil atmosphere and reflections of the surrounding karst topography on calm days

Location & Nearby

📍 Hechuan, Chongqing • 🏔️ 285m elevation

Frequently Asked Questions - Shuanglong Lake Travel Guide

Where is Shuanglong Lake located?

It is located in Longshi Town, Hechuan District, Chongqing, about 26 kilometers from the Hechuan urban area.

Is there an entrance fee? The lake area itself is generally open, but there may be fees for specific activities like boating, fishing, or entering certain developed resort areas.

How do I get there? From Chongqing city center, you can take a train to Hechuan Railway Station, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to Longshi Town/Shuanglong Lake. Self-driving is also a convenient option via the highway.

Can I swim in the lake? Swimming is generally restricted to designated areas or prohibited in the main channels used for athletic training for safety reasons. It is best to check with local regulations upon arrival.

What is the best time to visit? Spring and autumn are the best seasons. Spring offers beautiful flower blossoms (peach, plum), and autumn is great for fruit picking and cool weather.

Why do you include Chinese characters and Pinyin in the descriptions for Shuanglong Lake?

We provide the original Chinese names and Pinyin to make your travel smoother. Since English is rarely spoken in remote parts of Western China, you can easily show these Chinese names to local taxi drivers, hotel staff, or police when asking for help, or copy-paste them directly into Chinese navigation apps like Amap (高德地图) or Baidu Maps.