Tianyi Water Park

Tianyi Water Park

Tianyi Water Park, located at the southern end of the urban area, is 3 kilometers from the county town. Originally known as the Tianyi Reservoir, it was first built in 1957. Since then, it has been developed into a water park for leisure and sightseeing by local residents. However, due to consecutive years of drought and lack of upstream water inflow, the park’s water sources dried up and it gradually fell into disuse. In May 2004, the county government raised funds through various means and implemented the West-to-East Water Diversion Project, channeling water from the Laoha River into the reservoir. At the same time, reinforcement and safety improvement works were carried out. The main and auxiliary dams were heightened and thickened, while the spillway and water inlet tunnels were renovated.

After the renovation, the water park covers an area of over 1,000 acres, with a total storage capacity of 7.6 million cubic meters. It now serves both flood control and irrigation purposes, as well as providing a new scenic spot for leisure, recreation, and entertainment for local residents.

As you travel south from the urban area towards the park’s north gate, an antique-looking screen wall comes into view — the four large characters “Tianyi Reservoir” are inscribed on it, flanked by white marble lions gilded in gold. The dam is constructed with granite and concrete, making it both sturdy and aesthetically pleasing. Walking south along the dam, you’ll first see sculpted horses leaping into the air outside the dam’s cofferdam, as well as the upturned eaves and bracket sets of the Xiangu Building. Further south, you’ll find the Zodiac Garden and the Wujin Pavilion. On a peninsula on the west side inside the dam lies a shaded arbor surrounded by hazel trellises, beneath which there are seats for resting. In the center of the peninsula stands the Jiuxiang Pavilion, featuring carved beams and painted rafters in classic traditional style. The island is dotted with unique rocks, flowers, and lush trees, offering visitors a cool, green oasis.

Standing on the peninsula and looking eastward, you’ll see a small island in the center of the vast lake. On this island stands a pavilion named Wangchun Pavilion, and to the south of the island are the Bagua Terrace and the Yaoyue Terrace. When you stand on the central island and look around, you’ll feel a sense of openness and tranquility. Especially on the Yaoyue Terrace and the Bagua Terrace, a mysterious feeling arises. Though small, the island is filled with blooming flowers of various fragrances, and several weeping willows sway in the breeze, creating a refreshing atmosphere. Access to the island is only possible by boat, adding to the enjoyment of traveling across the water.

To the northeast of the reservoir lies the Tianmi Zhai Garden, where classical-style pavilions complement the dam, and the garden contains trees and rocks that also serve as resting spots for visitors.

The northeast end of the reservoir features the spillway, equipped with three spillway walls. These not only serve the practical function of flood discharge but also form a scenic element of the water park. Visitors often come here to admire the grandeur of the engineering structure and the spectacular sight of water being released.

Trees both inside and outside the dam are lush and green, with weeping willows, peach blossoms, lilacs, and maples creating vibrant scenery. The peninsula within the dam and the islands in the lake are planted with various ornamental trees, their leaves rustling gently and casting ample shade. Outside the dam, tall trees such as willows, peach trees, lilacs, and maples offer broad canopies, providing visitors with cool, shady spots to relax.

The park’s water surface spans over 1,000 acres and can hold up to 7.6 million cubic meters of water during wet years. The waters are home to fish and shrimp. Motorboats and pedal boats dot the surface, creating a lively scene. On the shore, swimming and fishing enthusiasts enjoy their activities. For those accustomed to city life, strolling along the dam in this water park brings a refreshing sense of ease, while sitting under the shade of the trees brings a revitalizing clarity. Especially when gliding across the water, one feels an unparalleled joy and reluctance to leave.

The construction of the water park not only enhances the city’s character and vitality, but also plays an important role in boosting the county’s economy and fostering a harmonious society. It provides residents with a valuable space for leisure and entertainment.