Sayram Lake's Yangzhou counterpart goes viral

The Shaobo Lake Embankment in Yangzhou's Yanhu village has gone viral online for its breathtaking natural scenery, with many netizens praising it as a worthy parallel to the famed Sayram Lake in Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region .

Tourists appreciate scenic views of the Shaobo Lake Embankment. [Photo/WeChat account: yangzhou-fabu]

Originally fortified in the 1960s against floods, this 24-kilometer-long embankment is much more than just a picturesque sight. It holds a special place in the hearts of Yanhu villagers, known as their "Lifeline Dam".

Today, life around the embankment is thriving as Yanhu village has transformed into an agricultural tourism destination. Here are some offerings that you won't want to miss.

Migratory birds choose Yanhu village as their wintering ground. [Photo/WeChat account: yangzhou-fabu]

Above Shaobo Lake lies an area of islands. With sheltered, sun-facing slopes in winter and a reliable abundance of food, these islands offer the perfect spot for migratory birds to pass winter, making the village a bird-watching hotspot.

The Yanhu Supply Society offers a wide range of local specialties. [Photo/WeChat account: yangzhou-fabu]

The Yanhu Supply Society is a place full of retro vibes reminiscent of the 1970s and 1980s. Its walls are plastered with slogans from that era, paired with nostalgic items like iron pots and old-style enamel basins, along with local agricultural specialties.

Earning their living through fishing for generations, the villagers have nurtured a unique freshwater seafood cuisine. After hundreds of years of cultural exchange, their dishes are an eclectic mix of Shandong and Anhui cuisine and northern Chinese noodles, while still retaining their own distinct culinary charm.