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At the Beimiao Reservoir, visitors can enjoy peaceful walks around the reservoir, take in scenic views of the surrounding mountains, and experience local wildlife. Photography and nature walks are popular, especially during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is ideal for capturing the landscape.
Beimiao Reservoir, located over 15 kilometers from Baoshan City, is a national A4-level tourist attraction. Located in the northern part of Baoshan City, Yunnan Province, it boasts a total storage capacity of 73.5 million cubic meters. It not only supports the prosperity and decline of Baoshan's "granary" and the lifeblood of agriculture, but also serves as a popular tourist attraction. Construction began in 1958, and water was filled for irrigation in 1962, ranking second among similar projects nationwide at the time. The main dam, spanning two mountains, currently stands 73 meters high, with a secondary dam 10.6 meters high.
The water irrigates over 120,000 mu of fertile farmland in Baoshan Dam. The outer base of the Beimiao Reservoir is constructed from massive stones. Four parallel lines and several perpendicular lines divide the five-level dam into patches of green meadows. A central avenue with over 500 steps runs across the dam's crest. The four large characters "Beimiao Reservoir" are clearly visible from a mile away amidst the squares of flowers and grass.
The tropical monsoon climate combines the advantages of continental and maritime climates. Winter and spring are sunny and warm, while summer and autumn have a mix of sunny and rainy weather and are cool and pleasant. All four seasons are suitable for travel.
Beimiao Reservoir features an artificial lake and a water pavilion. Climbing the steps to the dam's crest reveals the vast, shimmering waters of the reservoir, with pine trees rustling among the water's hills, like oases scattered along the "ocean." Beneath the embankment, rows of cherry blossoms, lines of weeping willows, a clear pond, and a field of flowers offer a breathtaking view.
The several feet of water in the drainage ditch of the power station behind the dam are like flying snowflakes. To the west of the reservoir, thousands of acres of tea plantations are lush and green, and leisure villas are comfortable and cozy. To the east of the reservoir, thousands of acres of pine trees are roaring, and the Yunnan-Burma Highway is bypassed by a human bridge to the north.
It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.
free
Open all day
Beimiao Reservoir is an important local water resource, serving both agricultural and domestic purposes. It also plays a role in the ecological balance of the region, providing a habitat for various species of birds and aquatic life. Its surrounding environment is crucial to the local community's water supply.
The Beimiao Reservoir is located in the Baoshan region of Yunnan. Visitors can reach the site by taking a taxi or private car from the city center. Public transportation options are limited, so it is best to arrange private transport if you're not familiar with the area.
The reservoir is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the landscape is most picturesque. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best lighting for photography and a peaceful atmosphere.
There is no entrance fee for visiting the Beimiao Reservoir. It is a public space that can be accessed freely. However, visitors are encouraged to respect the local environment and contribute to conservation efforts where possible.
No tickets or advance booking are required to visit the Beimiao Reservoir.
A visit to Beimiao Reservoir typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in walking, photography, or relaxing by the water. If you wish to take a longer hike or explore nearby areas, additional time may be needed.
The highlight of Beimiao Reservoir is the expansive view of the water surrounded by mountains. The surrounding trails and natural scenery are perfect for a quiet walk or picnic. The reservoir itself offers calm waters, which make for excellent photography opportunities.
Guided tours are not typically available, but local guides may be hired through nearby guesthouses or tourism services. Most visitors explore the area independently. Audio guides are not provided, but the natural beauty of the site is the main attraction.
The best photography spots are along the walking trails surrounding the reservoir, especially from elevated points where the full expanse of the water can be captured. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting for landscape photography.
Start at the main entrance and follow the walking paths around the reservoir. Make stops at scenic viewpoints for photography, and consider visiting nearby villages or natural spots to extend your visit.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Beimiao Reservoir. The site is best enjoyed during the day, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon when the scenery is most vibrant.
The Beimiao Reservoir is generally not crowded, especially on weekdays. The least crowded times are early mornings and late afternoons, outside of weekends and holidays.
There are basic facilities such as rest areas and toilets near the reservoir. However, there are no large shops or restaurants on-site, so it is advisable to bring your own water and snacks for the visit.
The terrain around the Beimiao Reservoir is mostly natural, with some uneven paths. While it is accessible for children and the elderly, individuals with mobility impairments may find some areas difficult to navigate.
Cash is typically needed in more remote areas surrounding the reservoir. Some places may accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay, but it’s best to carry cash for smaller transactions.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly at the reservoir. However, you can find small local eateries in nearby villages offering traditional Yunnanese food.
Local eateries may offer vegetarian options, and some might cater to vegan diets. Halal food options are limited in the area, but vegetarian food is widely available.
There are several guesthouses and hotels in Baoshan, which are a short drive from the reservoir. For a more local experience, you may also find homestays in nearby villages.
Nearby attractions include the Baoshan ancient town, as well as scenic spots such as natural parks, temples, and local markets. These can easily be combined for a full day trip.
There are no major souvenir shops directly at the reservoir. However, in nearby towns, you can find traditional Yunnanese handicrafts, local textiles, and artisanal goods.
After visiting the Beimiao Reservoir, taxis or private vehicles are the best options for continuing your trip. Public transportation is limited in this region, so a private vehicle is recommended for further exploration.
