Dongjiang Lake, when shrowded in fog, conjures up the images of heaven described in ancient Chinese legends. [Photo by Deng Jianfei / For China Daily]

Dongjiang Lake in Chenzhou, located in southeastern Hunan province, was granted a national 5A-level tourist attraction in July by the National Tourism Administration, the eighth destination in Hunan province to be designated with a 5A-level status.

A national scenic spot and wetland park, the Dongjiang Lake scenic area includes the Hougu Mountain Rainfall, Dongjiang Reservoir Dam, Yongcui Gorge and Swan Mountain National Forest Park. Known for its resplendent natural beauty, the total scenic area covers 160 square kilometers. The 8.12 billion cubic meters of water of Dongjiang Lake meets national drinking standards.

Dongjiang Lake scenic area is rich in dense forest cover and all of the natural vegetation within it are classified as class-one reserve. Tourists can enjoy a wide variety of recreational options in the area's rivers, lakes, waterfalls and springs such as rafting, water slides and fishing.

One of the most remarkable natural spectacles in Dongjiang Lake scenic area is the seemingly magical water mist that forms just before sunrise and right after sunset over Dongjiang Lake from April to November every year. Across the 12-kilometer flat lake, between the gatehouse of the Dongjiang Lake scenic area and the Dongjiang Reservoir Dam, rosy clouds slowly rise, giving off walls of color and radiance.

The number of tourists to Dongjiang Lake scenic area has more than doubled since the area was named a national 5A-level tourist attraction in July. Zixing - a county-level city in which the Dongjiang Lake scenic area is located - has made great efforts to promote the idea of civilized tourism and improve industry services in an aim to enhance tourists' experiences.