Balihe Scenic Area is located 8 kilometers south of Yingxiang County and 60 kilometers northwest of Fuyang City. It was constructed on the lake depression formed by a massive flood in 1991. The scenic area features miniature landscapes similar to Shenzhen’s Window of the World and Splendid China, as well as amusement and zoo parks. However, what truly captivates visitors is its natural scenery. The lake is tranquil, with willow trees lining the causeway and scattered islands across the water, rivaling the beauty of Hangzhou’s West Lake. Spring and summer are the ideal times to visit, with blooming flowers and green willows enhancing the beauty of Balihe.
Upon entering through the European-style main gate in the northwest corner, visitors first explore the Bird Language Forest, home to swans, mandarin ducks, and peacocks. Then, following the willow-lined causeway to the east, one passes through two themed zones. The West Zone, ‘World Scenery,’ features miniature structures of world-renowned landmarks such as the French Arc de Triomphe, Dutch windmills, and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Paris, along with an amusement park with ferris wheels and other attractions. The East Zone, ‘Splendid China,’ displays replicas of Chinese landscapes like Suzhou gardens and Baique Temple.
Traveling south from ‘Splendid China,’ one crosses a particularly long suspension bridge, whose swaying motion is a popular attraction. This leads to the ‘Blue Wave Scenic Area,’ also known as the Twelve Zodiac Islands. The twelve zodiac animals are merely a name; the islands host various animals such as elk, bears, and zebras, which may not correspond one-to-one with the zodiac signs, but are sure to delight children.
On the western side of the scenic area, beneath the White Pagoda, there is a beach with a bathing area where one can play in the sand and swim during the summer.
Free for model workers: Model workers and heroes at or above the provincial level are free. Free for military personnel: Active-duty military personnel and retired cadres of the military can enter for free with valid certificates. Free for compatriots from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan: Inbound young people from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan can enjoy the same preferential policies as mainland teenagers when they visit Balihe Tourist Area with valid identity certificates such as Exit-Entry Permit for Travelling to and from Hong Kong and Macao Residents, Exit-Entry Permit for Taiwan Residents to Mainland or student certificates.
Supplementary notes for other preferential treatment: When groups eligible for half-price tickets or free tickets visit the scenic area, they can enjoy half-price tickets or free tickets with their valid certificates. The above information is for reference only. The specific information shall be subject to the content disclosed by the scenic area on the same day. Service facilities. Transportation in the park: Reference price: 10 yuan/person/time; Address: Sightseeing bus station at the tourist center. Nursing room: Address: There is a nursing room in the hall of the tourist center.
