Ultimate Guide to Cycling Around Fuxian Lake: Routes, Tips, and Stunning Views

Ultimate Guide To Cycling Around Fuxian Lake

Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖), renowned for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings, is a paradise for cycling enthusiasts. Stretching about 96 kilometers, the lake offers an exciting and challenging cycling route that combines stunning landscapes, local delicacies, and a taste of adventure. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a casual rider looking for a unique journey, this guide will provide everything you need to know for an unforgettable experience around Fuxian Lake.

Cycling Around Fuxian Lake: The Essentials

Distance: The total route around Fuxian Lake spans approximately 96 kilometers. (The recording began 2 kilometers into the ride.)

Time Required: The ride takes about 8 hours, including cycling, photography breaks, meals, and rests. If you’re a seasoned cyclist, it’s possible to complete it in under 4 hours depending on your pace.

Starting/Ending Points:

  • By Car: Use navigation to locate Haiya Resort Hotel (嗨呀度假酒店) in Dibancun Village (底板村), Yousuo Town (右所镇), Chengjiang City (澄江市). The area offers paid parking at about 15 CNY per day. There are clean and convenient public restrooms nearby.
  • From Kunming: You can cycle from Kunming to Fuxian Lake, stay overnight, and circle the lake the next day. However, the road conditions between Kunming and Chengjiang include steep uphill sections and less-than-ideal riding surfaces.

Cycling Direction: Both clockwise and counterclockwise routes are viable, with similar levels of difficulty. For this guide, the clockwise route was chosen. Once you turn right at the main intersection, you’ll find yourself on the loop road around the lake.

Road Conditions

Top 12 Scenic Spots Around Fuxian Lake

Bicycle Lanes: There are no dedicated bicycle lanes. Cyclists share the road with motor vehicles, though winter traffic is lighter. It’s best to avoid public holidays when traffic peaks.

Surface Quality: Most sections are cement roads and generally in good condition. However, the stretch between Luchong (禄充) and Chengjiang (澄江) has long uphill and downhill sections, which can be hazardous due to loose gravel and heavy truck traffic. Be cautious of flat tires and steep descents.

Gradients: Expect numerous uphill and downhill stretches, some with sharp bends. Winds can add resistance, especially on open sections of the road.

Recommended Gear

Bicycle: A road bike is recommended for the long distance and frequent inclines. Riders using mountain bikes may find the terrain more exhausting.

Cycling Shorts: Essential for comfort during long rides. Some sections of the asphalt road are bumpy, making padded shorts even more important.

Helmet and Gloves: Safety gear is non-negotiable. A companion fell during the final stretch after hitting a hidden bump but was saved from serious injury thanks to a helmet and gloves.

Portable Charger: Bring a power bank! Long rides require navigation, activity recording, payment for meals, and, of course, photo-taking, all of which can drain your phone battery quickly.

Supplies

Water: Pack mineral water and electrolyte drinks. Shops and restaurants along the route sell water, but it’s good to have some on hand.

Snacks: Bring energy gels, protein bars, beef jerky, or bananas. If possible, carry a small trash bag to help maintain the pristine environment of Fuxian Lake. The lake’s water quality is exceptional (Class I protected water), and the area is impressively clean.

Meals: Restaurants can be found in towns along the route. Copper pot fish (铜锅鱼) and stone pot fish (石锅鱼) are local specialties. Don’t miss copper pot rice (铜锅饭), which is incredibly flavorful! Good meal stops are around the 40-kilometer mark near Big Banyan Square (大榕树广场) or the 50-kilometer mark near Gushan (孤山).

Scenic Highlights

Lake Views: Most of the route runs along the lake, offering plenty of photo opportunities. Look for straight, wide sections of the road for safe stops. Many areas allow access to the water’s edge, where the clarity of the lake is truly remarkable.

Guanglong Town (广龙小镇): This section offers a dedicated lakeside cycling path with breathtaking views, especially during the evening when the sunset illuminates the lake. You can also spot Jianshan (尖山) in the distance, creating a mesmerizing silhouette.

Difficulty Level

This route is rated ⭐⭐⭐⭐ for its combination of long distance and frequent climbs. It’s more challenging than the Dianchi Lake (滇池) loop but manageable for moderately experienced cyclists. The ride can be completed in one day or split into two days with an overnight stay, allowing you to catch the sunrise the next morning.