Located about 32 kilometers (20 miles) west of Guiyang is the Red Maple Lake (Hongfeng Lake). It is considered to be the pearl of the Guizhou Plateau, and is the most fascinating among the three lakes in this part of Guizhou. The other two are Baihua (Hundred Flowers) Lake and Dongfeng (East Wind) Lake.

Red Maple Lake is the largest artificial lake on the Guizhou Plateau. Its surface covers 57.2 square kilometers (22 square miles) and in area is twelve times the size of the Ming Tombs Reservoir in Beijing and six times as large as the famous West Lake in Hangzhou. The lake and the surrounding scenic area occupy a total of 240 square kilometers (93 square miles). There are many red maple trees on the surrounding mountain ranges whose leaves turn red every fall - hence the lake's name.

The HonRed Maple Lake Scenic Area consists of four parts: the North Lake, the South Lake, the Rear Lake and the minority ethnic villages. The North Lake is the smallest and is famous for its various islands such as Bird Island, Snake Island and Tortoise Island. Along the shore there is a historic complex of ancient tombs left by the Western Han Dynasty.

The South Lake is noted for its caves, including the General's Cave, Fishing Cave and Underground Cave. The Rear Lake is renowned for its picturesque countryside. The many roads along the lake's shore offer opportunities for leisurely walks to admire the beautiful scenery.

The area contains interesting examples of village architecture, including a Miao traditional house (DiaoJiaolou), a Bouyei flagstone house and a Dong drum tower which has a roofed bridge. The drum tower can be reached by boat to enjoy a panoramic view of the Red Maple Lake. The minority ethnic villages on the shores of the lake are unique. In accordance with village custom, visitors can be assured of a warm welcome-to the extent that they may be reluctant to leave.

Red Maple Lake is beautiful and serene. It is an ideal tourist destination and can be conveniently included in an itinerary that includes the Dragon Palace and Huangguoshu Waterfall.