Zi Xia Lake

Zi Xia Lake is probably the only place in Nanjing that people can swim outdoors in a semi natural environment. The lake itself is carved into the side of the Purple Mountain, and includes a man made beach. Zi Xia Lake is relatively new, with its history dating back to only 1935. The water is un-chlorinated and aquatic plants are allowed to grow there mostly unmanaged. The lake is open to the general public year round, though obviously swimming in summer time is best. Caution should be practiced at all times; each year a number of deaths occur as a result of cramp brought on by cold water currents flowing from inside the mountain. Swim with a friend, or take some kind of floatation device.