Fenhe Second Reservoir

Fenhe Second Reservoir

Fenhe Second Reservoir is a national water conservancy scenic area.

Located 30 kilometers northwest of Taiyuan City on the main course of the Fenhe River, the Fenhe Second Reservoir is a large-scale reservoir primarily designed for flood control and water supply, while also serving multiple purposes such as power generation, tourism, and aquaculture. Construction began in November 1996 and was completed in January 2000. The dam is a roller-compacted concrete structure, with a maximum height of 88 meters, a crest length of 228 meters, and a width of 7 meters. The Fenhe Second Reservoir scenic area was formed by damming and impounding water on the original Liulinhe Natural Scenic Area, creating a national-level water conservancy scenic spot that combines natural beauty with cultural landscapes. The reservoir area features a water surface stretching 23 kilometers and has become an important tourist attraction in Taiyuan.

The Fenhe Second Reservoir Water Conservancy Scenic Area leverages modern water conservancy projects, ancient temples dating back thousands of years, natural landscapes such as Liulinhe and the One-Line Sky, to create a destination that integrates modern engineering, high-mountain lakes, ancient temples, mountain springs, and rural scenery. It is characterized by its unique engineering design, rich cultural landscapes, profound historical heritage, and beautiful ecological environment, with vegetation coverage exceeding 90%. In 2002, it was designated as a “National Water Conservancy Scenic Area” by the Ministry of Water Resources, receiving over 200,000 visitors annually on average. Among its most distinctive attractions are: Dam Viewpoint, Speedboat Lake Tour, Exciting Rafting, Bamboo Raft Play, Bonfire by the Spring, Mountain Stream BBQ, Moon God Temple, Happiness Square, Mingyue Mountain Villa, and Riverside Park.

Scenic Introduction of the Fenhe Second Reservoir Water Conservancy Scenic Area

Hanging Spring Temple:

The provincial-level cultural relic protection unit, Hanging Spring Temple, is located by the Fenhe River and is an ancient Buddhist temple. Originally built during the Chongning era of the Song Dynasty, only ruins remain today. It was rebuilt in the early Ming Dynasty and once served as a Buddhist site and charcoal production area for the Prince of Jin’s Mansion. In 1467 (the third year of the Ming Chenghua era), the Prince of Jin’s Mansion added more than 20 structures here, including the Main Hall, Star Tower, Scripture Repository, and Kṣitigarbha Hall. An inscription describes it as being “surrounded by beautiful peaks, with the Fenhe River flowing nearby, built in a deep valley and carved into the cliffs, like a scene from a dreamland, no less splendid than a fairy island,” showcasing its exceptional environment and stunning landscape. Hanging Spring Temple combines the thrill of a hanging temple with the elegance of a serene monastery.

Speedboat Lake Tour

The water surface of the Fenhe Second Reservoir was formed by damming a valley, characterized by a long, narrow lake surface and complex waterways. However, with its rugged rocks and picturesque scenery, it is often referred to as the “Little Three Gorges.” Cruising by boat, you’ll see the River God Temple and Mountain God Temple standing tall on either side. As you move forward, it seems like a path with no exit—then suddenly, a new scene opens up. The Pointing Generals’ Platform stands solemnly, while the Blessed Temple quietly guards the ancient river channel, once bustling with cargo boats and lively post stations. As the boat turns, the Dragon Viewing Pavilion soars into the sky, and the dam blocks the river, bringing you back from the beautiful natural surroundings and the flow of history to the present reality.

Bamboo Raft Drifting:

“Small bamboo rafts drift on the river, while majestic green mountains walk along the shores.” The bamboo raft drifting experience is akin to life in the water towns of southern China, offering a cross-regional taste of riverside living. Drifting on the lake, the green mountains on both sides are reflected in the water, almost within reach—truly a case of “mountains walking on water, people sailing through a painting.” Visitors can enjoy the charm of southern fishermen’s life amidst the landscape, waving bamboo poles, splashing water, laughing and playing, making it a place hard to leave.

Yiquan Zone BBQ Area

The Yiquan Zone BBQ Area in the Fenhe Second Reservoir Scenic Area is located in the central part of the park. Cross the thrilling suspension bridge, and you’ll arrive at the Yiquan Zone BBQ Area. This is currently the largest self-service outdoor BBQ area in the country, featuring over 100 grilling stations and capable of accommodating more than 1,000 people at once. Cooking your own food and enjoying the fun of grilling is an ideal choice for holidays and gatherings with family and friends.

Cave Spring Listening:

After enjoying a hearty BBQ, head to Cave Spring Listening. The gentle sound of flowing water invites quiet contemplation. In the summer heat, standing at the cave entrance offers a cool respite, like stepping into a giant refrigerator. Paddle inside to hear the spring water tinkling; outside the cave, the BBQ sizzles with the aroma of meat and wine that is simply mouthwatering. Challenge yourself like Tarzan, play on swings and cross log bridges for endless fun. Play in the sandy shallows and rediscover your inner child; with water splashing and shadows dancing, the joy is boundless.

Tropical Botanical Garden

The botanical garden features tropical plants introduced from southern China in 2000. Lush and evergreen all year round, with small bridges, flowing water, and greenery all around, it feels like stepping into a tropical rainforest.

Natural Landscapes

In spring, the Fenhe Second Reservoir is covered with blooming mountain flowers and babbling streams; in summer, the area is lush with greenery stretching as far as the eye can see; in autumn, maple leaves blaze red and wild fruits fill the air with fragrance. The area boasts uniquely shaped strange peaks and rocks, all naturally formed. Some resemble a reclining beauty, hence called the “Beauty Peak”; others look like a general directing troops, known as the “Pointing Generals’ Platform”; and some resemble a divine turtle entering the water, named the “Divine Turtle Stone.” Even more peculiar is the “Water Slope,” where the water surface itself forms a slope, and the river flows uphill. A marvel of Shanxi, this attraction has captivated visitors from across the province and beyond.

Qingjing Bay Leisure Area

Qingjing Bay is another attraction meticulously developed by the Fenhe Second Reservoir Scenic Area. It aims to provide visitors with a tranquil and leisurely mountain retreat reminiscent of a paradise on earth.

Qingjing Bay offers visitors peaceful fishing, riverside barbecues, farm-style meals, and lodging on traditional brick beds. Cobblestone paths, shaded greenery, and the sounds of frogs and birds create a natural oxygen bar. Breathe in the fresh air, enjoy farm-style cuisine, or gather around a barbecue with friends—perfect for a holiday getaway.

The serene environment is suitable not only for family outings but also for large groups, offering ample space for activities and group meals. It can currently host up to 300 people for barbecues or farm-style meals. There are six brick bed rooms that can accommodate multiple guests, offering a taste of rural life. Two elegant fish ponds provide great services for fishing enthusiasts. Qingjing Bay is also ideal for camping, hanging hammocks, playing board games, engaging in group activities, and more—a leisure destination suitable for all ages.

Shenlong Lake Training Center

The Shenlong Lake Training Center is located in the central part of the scenic area. It offers 65 standard rooms, 11 suites, 9 villas, as well as conference rooms of various sizes, a restaurant, a multi-functional KTV, a basketball court, a chess and card room, and a fitness center. It can accommodate 150 people for dining, meetings, and lodging, making it perfect for class reunions, business meetings, corporate training, and team-building events. After a day of intense meetings, unwind with a fun barbecue and bonfire party, singing and drinking. Enjoy a cozy stay in the hotel after moderate relaxation and entertainment. Here, there is none of the noise, bright lights, or summer heat of the city—only the refreshing comfort of nature.

Kayaking Rafting

The scenic area spent months renovating the waterway, improving supporting facilities, and purchasing explosion-proof rubber rafts to ensure visitor safety. Drifting downstream, you’ll ride the waves and navigate thrilling rapids while enjoying the breathtaking canyon scenery of towering peaks, rushing blue waters, and the harmony of landscape and water—a perfect choice for returning to nature, releasing stress, and enjoying a leisurely vacation.

Address: Fenhe Second Reservoir Scenic Area, Yangqu County, Taiyuan City

Type: Forest, Geological Landform, Mountain, Lake, Water Conservancy Project, Rafting, Fruit Picking/Agritainment

Opening Hours:

8:00-20:00