Miyun Reservoir

Miyun Reservoir

Miyun Reservoir is the largest reservoir in Asia and is known as the "Pearl of Yanshan." It is located in Miyun County in the northeast of Beijing, nestled among the peaks of the Yanshan Mountains, where it spans the Chao and Bai rivers. Constructed between September 1958 and September 1960, it covers a total area of 1.88 million square kilometers, with a water surface area of 137,000 mu and a depth ranging from 40 meters to 60 meters. It is divided into three storage areas: the Baihe, Chaohe, and Inner Lake zones. The total storage capacity is 43.17 billion cubic meters, equivalent to 67 times that of the Ming Tombs Reservoir or 150 times that of Kunming Lake. The reservoir is encircled by an 110-kilometer-long highway, and it takes over three hours to drive around it.

The reservoir is situated in the lower middle reaches of the Chao and Bai rivers and was formed by damming the waters of these two rivers, with its area spanning both. It has two main dams and five auxiliary dams. The main Baihe Dam is located on the Baihe River near Xiwengzhuang, measuring 960 meters in length and 66 meters in height. The main Chaohe Dam is on the Chaohe River near Nanjianchang, stretching 1,008 meters long and standing 56 meters high. The five auxiliary dams are located at Beiba yan, Zoumazhuang, Nanshiluotuo, Xishiluotuo, and Jiusongshan, with a combined length of 2,592 meters. Except for the Zoumazhuang auxiliary dam, which is a core wall and homogeneous earth-fill dam, the other dams are all rolled clay sloped-wall dams with stone facing. The total volume of earthwork for the main and auxiliary dams is 18.88 million cubic meters. The reservoir is designed to withstand a once-in-a-thousand-years flood, with a maximum depth of 60 meters, a peak water surface area of 188 square kilometers, and a maximum storage capacity of 4.375 billion cubic meters. It controls a catchment area of 15,788 square kilometers for the Chao and Bai river basins, accounting for 88% of the total basin area. Supporting infrastructure includes three spillways, four flood discharge tunnels, one regulating pool, two hydroelectric power stations, and the Beijing-Miyun Water Diversion Channel.

Since its completion, Miyun Reservoir has fundamentally eliminated the flood hazards of the Chao and Bai rivers, protecting over 6 million mu of farmland downstream from flooding and converting 4 million mu of dry land into irrigated fields, while also reclaiming 1 million mu of barren riverside land. The reservoir supplies industrial, agricultural, and domestic water to Beijing, Tianjin, and parts of Hebei Province, making it the most important water source for the capital. The two power stations have a combined installed capacity of 96,400 kilowatts, generating approximately 115 million kWh of electricity annually. The reservoir produces 3 million kilograms of freshwater fish per year. Thus, Miyun Reservoir offers comprehensive benefits including flood control, irrigation, water supply, power generation, aquaculture, and tourism. In 1964, the Miyun Reservoir Management Office was established, overseeing the Chaohe, Baihe, and garden management stations, as well as a staff hospital, with a total of 670 employees responsible for the maintenance, management, and operation of the reservoir.

Miyun Reservoir attracts visitors with its picturesque landscapes and serene beauty, making it one of the famous tourist destinations in eastern Beijing. Upon arriving at the reservoir, you’ll be greeted by the majestic dam. Once you ascend to the top, a vast expanse of misty waters unfolds before you — an endless view of the lake blending with the sky, dotted with fishing boats. Various structures near the reservoir are nestled among green hills and clear waters, resembling a heavenly palace. To the northwest of the Baihe Dam lies a mountain peak over 900 meters high called Wuzuo Lou, home to five ancient beacon towers that stand proudly atop the summit, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the reservoir and the frontier landscape. It’s an ideal spot for tourism, fishing, summer retreats, and relaxation.

Additionally, if time permits, visitors can also explore the Miyun International Amusement Park and Baihe Country Park nearby.

Transportation Information

Long-distance buses are available from Dongzhimenwai. During the peak tourist season, special tourist buses can be taken from the east intersection of Beixinqiao. Alternatively, you can take train No. 555 or 557 from Beijing Railway Station to Jugezhuang and then head to the area.

Dining

Miyun Reservoir is a famous fishing destination in Beijing. When visiting the reservoir area, be sure to try the delicious “Kua Dun Yu” (stewed fresh fish using reservoir water), along with other local dishes such as cornmeal pancakes, gourd strips with meat, tofu and vermicelli with dried Chinese cabbage, and stir-fried brine tofu. Dining by the lakeside orchards offers the added bonus of beautiful views, ensuring a truly memorable culinary experience.

Huairou rainbow trout is a trendy delicacy in Beijing, perfect for grilling or stewing. When passing through the Huairou mountainous area, many roadside farmhouses serve this dish.

Time Needed

1 day

Ticket Price

Free

Opening Hours

All day