The most beautiful icy blue waves of Qinghai Lake are hidden on Erlangjian Peninsula

The moment you step onto Erlangjian Peninsula, the icy waves crashing against the shore and the blue sky reflecting on the lake make you feel dazed—this is not just a lake; it’s clearly God’s spilled blue palette. The 360-degree panoramic lake and mountain scenery push the beauty of Qinghai Lake to the extreme. This is the ultimate way to experience the "Plateau Sapphire." 🚗 Transportation 1. Self-driving or charter from Xining: take the Jingzang Expressway → Huangdao First-Class Road, about 145 km in total, 2 hours direct to the scenic area. 2. Public transportation: There are 3 direct buses daily from Xining Xinning Road Bus Station to the scenic area, about 2.5 hours travel time. 🎫 Ticket Prices 1. Adult ticket: 40 RMB 2. Student ticket: 25 RMB (with student ID) 3. Free admission: Seniors 60+, children under 6 years old or under 1.2 meters, active military personnel, etc., with valid ID. 🚌 Two ways to explore (choose as needed) 1. Lazy and worry-free version: Free shuttle bus available at the scenic area entrance (operates 8:30-17:00), directly to the core area of Erlangjian Peninsula. You can unlock the lake-view boardwalk in 5 minutes, less walking, more sightseeing. 2. Hiking exploration version: Hike 13 km along the lakeside trail (flat and no uphill), ending at the secret icy blue wave spot with fewer people and pure scenery. Along the way, you may encounter grassland herds and winter migratory birds. 📸 Scenic photo spots collection 1. No.1 Viewing Platform: Walk right along the lakeside boardwalk, the white chapel with the lake view looks like stepping into a Hayao Miyazaki comic. 2. Dock Cross East White Beach: Seagulls gather here, framing perfectly with the distant lighthouse, especially stunning at dusk when the lights turn on. 3. Plateau Sacred Lake Altar: 360° panoramic view, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, an excellent spot for sunrise and sunset, with views of both snow-capped mountains and lake light. 4. Shallow beach on the east side of the peninsula: A winter birdwatching sanctuary where swans, ruddy shelducks, and other migratory birds rest, combined with the icy surface, it looks like a fairy tale. 5. Right side of the boardwalk fork: Avoid the crowds, with mountains and beach behind you, perfect for long-focus photography with great texture. ❗️ Tips for visiting 1. The lakeside climate in winter is changeable and very windy. Be sure to bring windproof down jackets, fleece pants, cotton hats, scarves, and gloves to prevent frostbite. 2. The plateau altitude is 3200 meters, so altitude sickness may occur. Prepare warm water and oxygen bottles in advance, and don’t push yourself if you feel unwell; stay quiet while birdwatching, and bring binoculars for a better experience.