In Nagarze County in Shannan Prefecture, the lake is 4,400 meters above sea level. It covers an area of 800 square kilometers and is 30- 40 meters deep. Yamzho means upper pasture and Yum means green jade in Tibetan. In a bird's eye view, the lake is like a big piece of sapphire inlaid in the mountains and is very beautiful.

The lake is rich in hydropower resources. Its surface is more than 800 meters higher than the Yarlung Zangbo River at the foot of the mountain. Also here stands the Yamzho Yumco Power station well known for its high elevation in the world. To its south stands the magnificient Samding Monastery where Doji Pamo, the only woman Liviing Buddha in Tibet, stayed and presided.

Tourists can take the regular bus from Lhasa to Xigaze or take a taxi. The Cereal Guesthouse in Nagarze County seat provides lodging service for 20- 30 yuan each.