Shengtian Lake

Shengtian Lake

Located at the foot of Mount Huaying, within the boundaries of Pianyan Town and 48 kilometers from Beibei, it sits at an elevation of 390 meters and is the source of the Heishuitan River. Constructed in the 1970s through nearly a decade of arduous effort by nearly 10,000 workers, it was built at the cost of 21 lives and over 70 injuries, making it one of the rare high-altitude man-made lakes on the land of Bashu and also a historical testament to the Chinese spirit of conquering nature—hence its name. The lake covers an area of 1.5 square kilometers, with a water surface of 0.5 square kilometers, a depth of 39 meters, and a total storage capacity of 15.95 million cubic meters.

Surrounded by mountains on all sides, Shengtian Lake features steep and graceful peaks, winding shores, and beautiful waters. It is known for its serene environment, emerald waters, towering waterfalls, and peculiar rocks. It enjoys the reputation of being the “Jade Pool on Earth” of Mount Huaying. “Lion Island” is covered in lush woods, “One-Line Sky” features sheer cliffs, “Three Yuan Cave” is mysterious and deep, and the lake’s dam stands majestically with an artfully crafted presence. On clear nights, when the stars shine brightly and the moon glows, the lake and islands appear hazy, like a scene from a fairyland such as Penglai. In 1987, it was designated as a municipal-level scenic area, making it a rare summer retreat and ideal destination for leisure and recuperation.

When the boat reaches the mouth of “Three Yuan Gorge,” disembark and you’ll enter the deep “One-Line Sky” canyon area. Inside the valley lies a world of bizarre rocks. The endless stones spread out as far as the eye can see—some lying sideways or standing upright, some jutting out precariously or pressing tightly together, some clustered in disorderly arrays, each with a unique shape that leaves visitors astonished. Climbing over the jumbled rocks and finding your way through the narrow crevices, you’ll feel as if you’re navigating a maze. Looking around, it’s hard to find a way out. After finally making your way through, look up to see a massive rock rising from the ground, leaning dramatically as if it were a heavenly sword poised to pierce the sky. The rock stands unsupported all around, surrounded by danger, as if it could collapse at any moment.

Passing through layers of piled rocks, you’ll spot a cave halfway up the mountain hidden among the trees—that’s “Three Yuan Cave.” This cave has two entrances, an upper one that serves as a window and cannot be entered, and a lower one which you can use to go inside. Inside, there are dense clusters of stalagmites and stalactites. Legend has it that in ancient times, three scholars who failed the imperial examinations and had no face to return home came here to study. They eventually achieved top honors, hence the name “Three Yuan Cave” (meaning “Three Successful Candidates Cave”). A winding mountain path from the cave entrance leads to the summit of Mount Huaying, where you can witness the view of “Snow-Covered Huaying at Dawn.”

Only when you immerse yourself in the beauty of the lake and mountains can you feel the awakening, vibrancy, and elevation of your imagination, and come to understand the mystery of beauty. As you take in the landscape of Shengtian Lake, if your heart resonates with it, you will discover that the undulating mountain ridges, proud and majestic, resemble a group of statues of boat trackers—their forward-leaning posture as they pull ropes exuding a vigorous masculine energy and a powerful sense of strength. Meanwhile, the tranquil and solemn lake bays, with their enchanting curves and clear ripples, display an elegant form, a gentle charm, and overflow with countless tender feelings.

Dicui Gorge is located in a tributary upstream of Shengtian Lake. The gorge is lush and green, making it perfect for hikers looking to explore. Route: Take a chartered vehicle from Pianyan to the Gypsum Factory. About 800 meters upstream on the left side of the gorge, there is a cave entrance with a stream flowing out of it. After visiting, return to the mouth of the gorge, cross the river, walk through a 50-meter stretch of woods to the riverbank, and then follow the bank into the right-hand gorge—that’s Dicui Gorge.