Hulun Lake, Nature reserve and freshwater lake in Inner Mongolia, China
Hulun Lake is a freshwater nature reserve in Inner Mongolia that forms a large irregular rectangle across the Hulunbuir Grassland. The water basin sits low in a flat landscape bordered by endless grass, stretching from the southwest toward the northeast.
The lake received official protection as a National Nature Reserve in 2002, marking an important shift toward safeguarding this freshwater source in northern China. This designation aimed to protect the region's delicate ecosystem and water resources for generations to come.
Local fishing communities maintain traditional practices on the lake, harvesting 7,000 tons of fish, 100 tons of shrimp, and 1.5 million crayfish annually.
The lake is best visited from spring through autumn when weather conditions are mild and paths are easy to walk. Visitors should know the area is quite windy, so warm clothes and sun protection are important to bring.
During heavy rainfall, the lake's waters connect with the Argun River through a natural northern channel, a fascinating example of the region's dynamic water system. This seasonal link shows how the lake is woven into the larger river network of the grassland.
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