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Shimen Scenic Area, formerly known as Kunlun Reservoir Scenic Area, is located in the canyon where the Daqing Mountain and the Wula Mountain of the Yinshan Mountains meet, ten kilometers northwest of Baotou, the largest industrial city in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.
The scenic area is named after the Kunlun River which flows through it, which was called "Shimen Water" in ancient times.
The Kunlun Reservoir is surrounded by mountains. Standing on the land, you can see the green mountains and the rippling lake, which looks like a pearl embedded in the mountains. It is really a place with high gorges and flat lakes.
You can go boating, fishing, and take a ride on the clear water.
The Kundulun Reservoir in the Shimen Scenic Area was built in 1958 with a storage capacity of 78.5 million cubic meters. The 469-meter-long dam stretches across the canyon, cutting off the water flow to Shimen and creating a flat lake across the high gorge. It is a comprehensive water conservancy project integrating flood control, water supply, water conservation, and tourism.
In the more than 40 years since the reservoir was built and put into operation, it has intercepted floods more than 100 times and provided nearly 900 million tons of water for industry and agriculture, making great contributions to the economic development and social progress of Baotou City.
Temperate continental climate, June to September
long time
free
All day
The Kundulun Reservoir is a significant man-made water body in Inner Mongolia, created to supply water to the nearby Baotou city and surrounding agricultural lands. It plays a crucial role in supporting local water needs and has become an important recreational area for locals and tourists alike. The reservoir also serves as a natural habitat for various species of wildlife, contributing to the region's ecological balance.
The Kundulun Reservoir is located in Baotou, Inner Mongolia, about 10-15 kilometers from the city center. You can get there by taxi or car from Baotou, which takes around 20-30 minutes. Public buses also serve routes to the area, but taxis provide the most convenient and direct access.
The Kundulun Reservoir is a public outdoor attraction, open year-round. The best times to visit are in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant. Summer can be a great time for water-based activities, while winter is cold and not as ideal for outdoor exploration.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Kundulun Reservoir itself. However, certain recreational activities, such as boating or access to specific parks, may require a ticket. Tickets for these activities can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and online booking is not typically required.
For most visits to the Kundulun Reservoir, no advance booking is necessary. However, if you're planning to engage in specific activities, such as boat rides or group tours, it’s advisable to book a few days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn).
Exploring the Kundulun Reservoir and its surrounding area typically takes about 2 to 3 hours. This allows time for a boat ride, walking around the reservoir, birdwatching, and enjoying the park areas. If you plan to hike in the nearby forests or enjoy a picnic, you may want to spend a whole day at the reservoir.
Guided tours are available for the Kundulun Reservoir, with most tours conducted in Mandarin. English-speaking guides can be arranged in advance, but availability may vary. Audio guides are not typically available, so it's best to rely on a guide or self-exploration.
The best photography spots include the main reservoir itself, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the light reflects beautifully on the water. The nearby hills also offer panoramic views of the area, making for excellent landscape shots. Birdwatching areas and the surrounding parks provide additional opportunities for nature photography.
A recommended itinerary includes starting with a stroll along the reservoir's edge, followed by a boat ride on the water. Afterward, explore the nearby parks and enjoy some birdwatching. If you're interested in hiking, follow one of the trails leading into the nearby forested areas.
Night visits and light shows are not common at the Kundulun Reservoir. The area is primarily a daytime attraction. However, the peaceful environment and clear skies make it a good spot for stargazing after sunset, especially in the warmer months.
The Kundulun Reservoir is not usually very crowded, but weekends and public holidays can see more visitors. The least crowded times are during weekdays, especially outside of peak tourist seasons like summer and autumn.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available around the reservoir and its parks. Food and water can be purchased from small local shops near the main entrance. There are no large restaurants inside, so it’s best to bring your own snacks or lunch if you plan to spend an extended period at the site.
The Kundulun Reservoir is accessible for elderly and children, with paved paths around the reservoir and park areas. However, certain trails leading into the forests may be challenging for those with mobility issues. The main areas near the reservoir are suitable for all visitors, including those with disabilities.
Cash is widely accepted, but many vendors and ticket counters also accept mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay. Credit card payments may be limited to larger shops or nearby hotels.
There are a few local eateries and small cafes near the reservoir serving simple meals, snacks, and drinks. For a wider selection, you can head to Baotou city, where there are many more restaurant options.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some of the local restaurants, although they may be limited. Halal food options are more commonly available in Baotou, given the significant Muslim population in the region.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Baotou city, which is about 15-20 minutes from the Kundulun Reservoir. For those seeking more scenic options, some resorts near the reservoir offer comfortable stays with views of the water.
Nearby attractions include the Baotou Museum, which provides insight into the region’s history, and the rare-earth mineral mining areas that are vital to China’s economy. The city is also close to the vast desert landscapes of Inner Mongolia, which are great for adventure tourism and photography.
There are a few souvenir shops in Baotou and around the reservoir selling local crafts, including Mongolian rugs, jewelry, and traditional clothing. Popular souvenirs include items made from local minerals and natural materials.
After visiting the Kundulun Reservoir, the best transportation options are to return to Baotou city, where you can access buses, taxis, and the railway station for further travel. For those continuing to other regions of Inner Mongolia, trains and buses are the most common options.
