Scenic Beauty of Yu Valley

　　Scenic Beauty of Yu Valley Heiyu (Black Valley) is located in the northern part of Jiaoshan Mountain. The Qing Dynasty’s “Yi County Annals” records: “Jiaoshan, fifty li to the northwest of the county, is a mountain barren of vegetation, appearing scorched when viewed from afar. On its shady side lies a valley. Steep cliffs surround it, and water gushes from stone crevices, gathering into pools. The clear waves splash, winding through gravel beds. After rain, springs surge forth, increasing the water flow’s vigor.” The spring water of Jiaoshan originates from the mountain’s shady side, where multiple gullies converge into pools, forming the source of the Hongtu River, locally known as Longtou Wang (Dragon Head Pool). Now, with the construction of dams and water diversion, Heiyu Reservoir has been built. Heiyu Reservoir is the only small Type I reservoir in the High-Tech Zone. It was first constructed in the 1960s, with a total storage capacity of 2.12 million cubic meters. Verdant mountains on both sides create reflections on the water, making boating feel like wandering through a painting. At the head of the plank walkway stands a well-preserved reservoir completion monument, evoking images of the construction scene in those days. The waterside is dotted with orchards, where various fruit trees bloom in spring and bear fruit in autumn, offering both scenic views and the enjoyment of fresh fruit. With abundant fish in the clear waters, the reservoir often attracts fishing enthusiasts for leisure. The wide dam and elegant pavilions, along with the vast expanse of water, have made Heiyu Reservoir a scenic destination that combines flood control, drought relief, and tourism. The western shore of Heiyu Reservoir is home to the Jushan Stone Sea Geological Landscape Reserve. On the southeastern slope of Jushan, pine waves rustle above while the stone sea surges below, hence the name “Pine Waves over the Stone Sea.” Ascending to the mountaintop, to the east you can see the blue ripples of Heiyu Reservoir; to the north, the rows of buildings in the new city; to the west, the misty expanse of Weishan Lake in the distance; and to the south, the undulating mountain ranges. It is a rare leisure destination.