Biyun Lake

Biyun Lake

Biyun Lake (formerly known as Huangshu Tree Reservoir). Built in 1959, it is one of the top ten reservoirs in our province. It is also an outstanding tourist resort blessed with beautiful natural scenery. The front dam is 270 meters long and 32.2 meters high, with a catchment area of 262 square kilometers, a total storage capacity of 300 million cubic meters, and a perennial water surface of 16.8 square kilometers (approximately 20,000 mu), with an effective irrigation area of 200,000 mu. This place boasts picturesque scenery and convenient transportation. It is just 20 kilometers from the county seat, accessible via a paved road. The entire lake is nestled among surrounding mountains, with clear blue waters set against the sky, and birds singing and flowers blooming all year round. The average temperature here is 3–5°C lower than that of the county seat. Towering peaks on both banks vie in beauty; mixed broadleaf forests and evergreen conifers are lush and green, while the lake water is crystal clear. Taking a sightseeing boat from the dam and cruising across the lake, you pass through Heart Island and then the lake suddenly opens up broadly. With vast, shimmering waters stretching into the distance, the boat sails on the water as if you are traveling through a painting, where water and sky merge into one, bringing great joy to visitors. Historical records indicate that Wu Guodui, the great-grandfather of the famous satirical literature author Wu Jingzi, was buried in this auspicious land.

In addition to its beautiful mountains and waters, Biyun Lake also has eight historical anecdotes and legends: (1) Eagle Beak Rock, located at the entrance of the Biyun Lake dam, is naturally formed without any carving. It looks incredibly lifelike and vivid. (2) Fishing Terrace, situated on the north bank of Biyun Lake, is clearly reflected in the crystal-clear water. Legend has it that Jiang Ziya fished here. Because he used a straight hook, he often sat waiting for a long time, eventually leaving behind the imprint of his seat. On the south bank, there is also a divine eagle that was said to protect Jiang Ziya, which led to the natural formation of Eagle Beak Rock. (3) Eight Immortals Rock, located at the foot of steep hills upstream of the lake. It is said that the Eight Immortals, including Cao Guojiu and Lü Dongbin, once passed by here and were so captivated by the lake and mountain scenery that they often drank and made merry here, leaving behind vivid traces of their presence. (4) Stone Nest, located on the eastern shore of the lake. This stone hollow was formed historically when struck by thunder. (5) Twin Rocks, located northeast of the lake at the foot of Yangmei Mountain, resembling a pair of people — as elegant as the Flying Stone of Huangshan. (6) Lantern Chan Nest, located on the western shore of the lake. Surrounded by front hills like a nest, hence the name. There are ruins of a temple, and it is said that the eminent Ming Dynasty monk Hanshan Master studied here at the age of nine. The whole Quanjiao County is now preparing to build a memorial hall for Master Hanshan. (7) Wheel Hub Peak, located on the southern side of the lake. One of the ancient eight scenic spots of Quanjiao County, “Waterfall Flying Jade,” refers to this place. Although there is no waterfall now, Wheel Hub Peak remains the highest peak in the county, with an elevation of 395 meters. Climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of Biyun Lake. Additionally, there is a lake center island located directly in front of the dam, about 800 meters from the dam, covering an area of one square kilometer. Surrounded by water on all sides and shaded by green trees, this spot was spotted by an Argentine who invested in building a uniquely styled European-style villa here. In recent years, the Quanjiao County government and the Biyun Lake management office have made full use of the area’s natural landscape to develop supporting tourism facilities for visitors. At the same time, efforts have been made to protect the ecological environment, with a focus on preserving the water resources here. We firmly believe that this place will soon become a thriving tourist destination.