Hongfeng (Red Maple) Lake is an artificial lake/reservoir on the Guizhou Plateau, built in 1958. A lot of maple trees grow around the lake on the mountain, and the lake takes its name from these, since their leaves turn red every fall.
The scenic area is made up of four parts, each radiating its unique charm: the North Lake, the South Lake, the Rear Lake and the minority ethnic villages. Different attractions feature at the lake in each of the four different seasons. In spring, visitors may enjoy the blooming flowers; in summer, they may play in the clear, clean water; in autumn, the trees display various colors; and in winter, flocks of birds make it an attractive place to visit. There are some minority villages with interesting village architecture in the scenic area, including diaojiaolou (traditional Miao houses on stilts), Buyi flagstone houses and a Dong drum tower and wind-and-rain bridge. The drum tower can be reached by boat. In accordance with village custom, visitors receive a warm welcome; they may taste many special ethnic foods and snacks there too. It will be such an interesting experience they may be reluctant to leave.
