Yellow River Waterwheels

Yellow River Waterwheels

The Yellow River Waterwheels are located on a bend of the Yellow River, about 7 kilometers from Shapotou. Here stand six massive wooden waterwheels that slowly rotate day and night, driven by the impact of the river’s current, producing a loud rushing sound. The waterwheels are an ancient irrigation tool used along the Yellow River to lift water. Although most have been phased out, these six giant wheels are preserved solely for visitors to admire and enjoy.

Also known as "sky wheels," the waterwheels are over 10 meters tall. Each is supported by a 5-meter-long axle with a 0.5-meter diameter, from which radiate 24 wooden spokes. At the end of each spoke is a scraper and a water bucket. The scrapers scoop up the water, and the buckets collect it. Driven by the river’s flow, the waterwheels—weighing over ten tons—rotate slowly, lifting buckets filled with river water step by step. Near the top, the buckets tilt automatically, pouring the water into a flume that channels it to irrigated farmland. These revolving waterwheels along the Yellow River add endless charm to the river tour.

Transportation: Take a bus heading toward the Yellow River Waterwheels from the Shapotou Bus Station.

Zhongwei, Ningxia