China's biggest natural fresh water desert lake lies a bit north of Shenmu, right on the border with Inner Mongolia. This are covers approximate 202 km². The lake is supposed to be formed in around 1928 A.D. and has encountered 3 major sand storms up till now.
There are 26 kinds of birds with second class state protection and 16 kinds of wild fish living in here. One of the most common birds are the Relict Gulls, which are threatened to die out because of the uncertain future of the fresh water lake.
The lake's water level has been declining in the past decennia,  experts are afraid that it eventually might disappear. Reasons for the decrease are: lack of heavy rains, excessive extraction of ground water for farmland and for drinking water, and the destruction of the ground water systems by industrial development.
The Yingpan River, which supplied water to the lake has also stopped running since 2004 because of water shortages.

Every year thousands of mainland tourists come here to spend their holiday. This place offers a wide variety of amusement. Camel riding, horseback riding, fishing, etc are some of the many activities. There are some ferries which take to you to the other side of the lake.
What really made a huge impression was the sunset. It was without doubt the most beautiful one I have ever seen. During the day the water is constantly in movement, but in the evening, when the sun sets, the lake acts like a mirror. The sky is above and beneath you.
When daylight has gone, frogs conquer the beach. Whether it's day time or night, animal lovers always have something to observe.

In the local restaurants within the area you can try the lake's fishes. If you want to spend the night here, you can choose between a yurt, a hotel or a villa.