Gaozhou Reservoir

　　Gaozhou Reservoir, also known as Yuhu (Jade Lake), is located in the northeastern part of Gaozhou City, 25 kilometers from the urban area. It has a catchment area of 1,002 square kilometers and a storage capacity of 1.15 billion cubic meters. It is one of China’s top ten reservoirs and is hailed as the “Sun Moon Lake of Maoming.” In 2004, it was designated as a national-level water conservancy scenic area — the Yuhu Scenic Area. The reservoir supplies industrial and domestic water to Maoming City, and agricultural water to counties and cities such as Gaozhou, Huazhou, Dianbai, and Wuchuan, as well as to Maonan District and Maogang District. It is designed to irrigate 1.18 million mu of farmland. Construction of the reservoir began on May 18, 1958, and was completed by the end of 1959. Gaozhou Reservoir is serene and picturesque, where mountains and water blend seamlessly, vegetation flourishes, and vast blue waters stretch as far as the eye can see, creating enchanting scenery. It is praised as the “High Gorge Flat Lake” and “Jade Lake,” and is a renowned destination for sightseeing and vacationing in western Guangdong. The “Lushui Villa” is built halfway up the mountainside of the reservoir, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks, and boasts unique natural conditions — “welcoming the morning sun in the east, bidding farewell to the evening sun in the west, counting stars, embracing the moon, and bathing in the wind and greenery.”

　　The scenic area is famous across southern Guangdong for its verdant mountains, clear waters, stunning landscapes, and fresh air. The main dam, which is 1 kilometer long and 50 meters high, rises majestically beside Changpo Town, exuding grandeur and imposing presence. The Yunkai Mountain Range coils around the reservoir like a giant azure dragon. The lakeshore is surrounded by rolling peaks and lush subtropical shrubs that remain green all year round. In spring and summer, the mountains are ablaze with blooming flowers, filling the air with intoxicating fragrances and the chirping of birds. The reservoir’s water surface spans over 40 square kilometers, resembling the shape of a goat and the color of jade. Hundreds of islands dot the lake, each with unique forms — some like birds or beasts, others like constellations or the moon. The waterways twist and turn through 18 bends, resembling an aquatic labyrinth. The scenic area features comprehensive infrastructure, with well-arranged attractions, forming a harmonious balance between conservation and development, and promoting the coexistence of humans and nature.

　　It is an ideal destination for travel, conferences, leisure, and vacation.

　　In Yuhu, the lake water blends seamlessly with the mountain hues and sky tones. A gentle breeze blows, and a thin mist drifts, winding around the mountains, pavilions, and visitors. This scene makes one wonder if they have stepped into a celestial paradise. At this moment, are the mountains floating on the water, or is the water kissing the mountains? Or is it the mountains that have painted the lake green?