Beimiao Lake Reservior in Baoshan City

Chinese Name:保山市北庙水库
English Name: Beimiao Lake Reservior in Baoshan City

Beimiao Lake Reservoir (保山市北庙水库), located in Banqiao Town (板桥镇), Longyang District (隆阳区), Baoshan City (保山市), Yunnan Province (云南省), was constructed in 1958 and completed in 1962. This multi-functional water conservancy project serves purposes such as irrigation, flood control, and water supply. The reservoir has a total capacity of 73.5 million cubic meters, covers a watershed area of 119 square kilometers, and has a surface area of 2.8 square kilometers at normal water levels. The area is known for its ecological tourism, with native vegetation, tea gardens, fruit orchards, and nearly 100 species of flowers, offering a seasonal "flower viewing in spring, cooling off in summer, and fruit picking in autumn" experience. Recognized as a national water conservancy scenic area, the site features various facilities such as a boat dock, cultural plaza, and a viewing platform atop the 73-meter-high granite dam, which offers a panoramic view of the Baoshan Basin.

Key Features

Location

Situated in Banqiao Village, Longyang District, Baoshan City, Yunnan Province.

The reservoir's surface area spans 3.01 square kilometers at normal water levels.

Reservoir Capacity

Total storage capacity: 73.5 million cubic meters.

Year of completion: 1962.

Main Functions

Irrigation: Provides water for over 60,000 acres of farmland in Baoshan.

Flood Control: Protects approximately 50,000 acres of farmland from flood damage.

Water Supply: Supplies water to 400,000 residents in Baoshan's central urban areas, with an annual water supply exceeding 39 million cubic meters.

Hydropower: Powers a small hydropower station, generating 500-700 kWh annually.

History and Development

Origins

The Beimiao Reservoir was the first large-scale high dam reservoir in Baoshan after the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Construction began in 1958 with the mobilization of 100,000 laborers over a period of four years. The dam stands at a height of 73 meters.

The project, despite facing difficult construction conditions and epidemics, resulted in the loss of 604 workers. In 2003, the reservoir underwent safety reinforcement to meet the 1,000-year flood design standard.

As part of Baoshan's Green and Beautiful Rivers and Lakes Construction Plan, the area will see an additional 18,000 square meters of greenery by 2024.

Geographical Features

Location

The reservoir lies on the Upper Donghe River, at an altitude ranging from 1705 to 1912 meters above sea level.

The Hangrui Expressway (杭瑞高速) divides the lake into two sections: east and west.

Main Structure

Main dam: 280 meters long.

Auxiliary dam and five-tiered green steps.

A granite stone inscription on top of the dam reads "Beimiao Reservoir" (北庙水库).

Climate

Average annual temperature: 15.7°C.

Annual precipitation: 1,067 mm.

The region experiences a subtropical plateau monsoon climate.

Ecological Landscape

Vegetation

85.6% of the reservoir area is covered with vegetation, predominantly Yunnan Pine (云南松) and Simao Pine (思茅松).

Man-made forests include tea gardens, vineyards, and flower gardens.

The De Sheng Guan Road (德胜关路) is lined with native tree species like Winter Cherry (冬樱花) and Red Triad (红苋刺桐), forming a 4.6 km-long scenic corridor.

Main Attractions

Waterfront Sightseeing Area: Equipped with facilities such as speedboats and tourist boats.

Dam-top Viewing Platform: Provides stunning views of the Taibao Mountain (太保山) and Ailao Mountain (哀牢山).

Four-season Flower Sea: A collection of 98 species of ornamental plants, including camellias, azaleas, and lotus flowers.

Tourism Development

Facilities

A 20,000-square-meter eco-friendly parking lot.

A 500-meter-long waterside walkway.

An aquatic entertainment center, featuring a swimming pool and beach.

A food street with 20+ merchants, offering local delicacies.

Cultural Significance

Memorials and Exhibits

The area features a 1958 construction monument, a memorial wall, and a newly built "Siyuan" Red History Exhibition Hall (思源红色展馆) opened in 2023, which showcases the history of the reservoir's construction with tools and photographic records.

The 500-step staircase on the dam represents the hard work and sacrifice of the workers who built it. An annual micro-lecture titled "The Red Memories of Beimiao Reservoir" receives 30,000 visitors.

The name "Bei Miao" (北庙) originates from the Three Kingdoms Period (三国时期), when local people built the White Horse General Temple (白马将军庙) in honor of Liao Hua (廖化), a famous general of the Shu Han Kingdom. The village was later named Beimiao Village due to a misinterpretation in oral tradition.

Beimiao Lake’s Waterfront Walkway

A Hidden Gem in Yunnan

Located in the picturesque Baoshan City, the Beimiao Lake (北庙湖) offers a tranquil and scenic getaway for nature lovers. Its waterfront walkway provides visitors with an incredible opportunity to immerse themselves in the surrounding natural beauty while strolling along the calm lake.

Design and Architecture

The walkway is constructed with eco-friendly materials, designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment. It is both safe and visually stunning, offering a perfect spot for visitors to relax and enjoy nature.

Strolling the Walkway, Experiencing the Beauty of Nature

Scenic Views at Your Feet

From the walkway, you can view the entire Beimiao Lake (北庙湖). In the morning, the lake is shrouded in mist, resembling a fairyland; by noon, the sun shines brightly on the water, creating a mesmerizing shimmer; and at sunset, the lake is bathed in warm golden light.

Seasonal Beauty

The walkway offers a different experience each season:

• Spring: Trees and flowers bloom around the lake, creating a vibrant scene.

• Summer: Lotus flowers bloom and the gentle breeze cools visitors.

• Autumn: Golden leaves cover the ground, offering a beautiful contrast to the blue water.

• Winter: The lake appears still and serene, with a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.

Combining Culture and Leisure

Historical Significance

The lake, which once hosted a temple, carries rich cultural history. Although the temple no longer exists, the Beimiao Lake (北庙湖) continues to attract visitors interested in its historical significance. Along the walkway, explanatory boards tell the story of the land's past.

Recreational and Educational Value

The walkway is not only a place for sightseeing but also a hub for fitness and education. Many families visit the lake for leisure walks, where children can learn about plants and insects. The area also offers rest areas for visitors to relax, have tea, and socialize.

Visitor Tips

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its peak. For photography enthusiasts, early mornings or late afternoons offer the best lighting.

Things to Keep in Mind

To protect the environment, please refrain from littering and keep the area clean.

Due to the narrowness of the walkway, peak times may see large crowds. It's best to visit during non-peak hours for a more enjoyable experience.

Nearby Attractions

Other nearby attractions include the Qinghua Lake National Wetland Park (青华海国家湿地公园) and Tengchong Hot Sea (腾冲火山热海), both of which offer unique natural and cultural experiences.

Beimiao Lake Reservoir's waterfront walkway is more than just a path to the lake—it’s a bridge connecting people to nature. Whether you're seeking quiet reflection or a fun time with family and friends, this picturesque destination promises unforgettable memories. Don’t miss the chance to add Beimiao Lake (北庙湖) to your travel itinerary on your next visit to Baoshan!