Caiwobao Lake of Urumqi

Caiwobao Lake covers an area of 28 square kilometers. It is teeming with carp, chubs and herring. It is also the breeding ground of the mitten crabs. Five kilometers southeast of Caiwobao Lake lays the Salt Lake. It covers an area of 47 square kilometers.  The heavy salt content is due to run-off that collects in the water. The area was used during the Han and Tang Dynasties as an important beacon site warning neighboring areas of imminent danger. Now, these two lakes provide numerous tourist sights and activities including horseracing and shepherding, and are home to a casino resort and indoor swimming complex.