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Heilongtan Reservoir is located in Yangliu Town, 16 kilometers west of Renshou County, at the southern foot of Longquan Mountain and 68 kilometers from Chengdu. Heilongtan is an artificial lake with a storage capacity of 3.6 billion cubic meters.
85 islands are dotted across 236 square kilometers of water, resembling a bonsai on the water. The vast expanse of turquoise water, where the water and sky merge into one, creates a dreamlike scene. It has been designated a provincial-level scenic spot.
There are more than 10 areas with concentrated scenic spots in Heilongtan. For example, Penglai Island, the largest island group in the heart of the lake, is located in the Three Bays. It comprises Xiaolian Mountain, Amitabha Mountain, Huaguo Mountain, and Fengpi Mountain, all interconnected, with their peaks rising above the lake. The island is shaded by lush trees and offers opportunities for flower viewing, sightseeing, and fishing.
Suitable for all seasons
Heilongtan Lake is vast, with 72 islands nestled within it, each lined with winding shores and shaded by lush trees. The scenic area boasts 10 unique attractions: the Dam, the Three Bays, Penglai Island, Qinglongzui Botanical Garden, Longyan Cliff Sculptures and Stone Carvings, Chengu Mountain, Seven Stars Shining in the Moon, the Bayi Islands, Hanjiaba, Baiguoba, and the Twin Swallows.
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Heilongtan Reservoir Scenic Area is known for its natural beauty and historical significance. The reservoir was originally built for irrigation and water management, but over time it has become a popular tourist destination for those seeking tranquility and scenic views. It also holds cultural importance with nearby temples that date back to ancient times.
Heilongtan Reservoir is located in Meishan, Sichuan. The easiest way to get there is by taxi from the Meishan city center. Public transportation options may include buses, but taxis are the most convenient for tourists.
The scenic area is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the landscape is particularly beautiful. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for fewer crowds.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥40 per person. Tickets can be bought on-site or online through the official tourism website. It’s recommended to buy tickets in advance during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but is recommended during the peak travel seasons (like public holidays). Booking a few days ahead should suffice for most visits.
You will need around 3-4 hours to explore the reservoir area, take a boat ride, hike the trails, and visit the temples. A full day could be spent if you wish to relax and enjoy the peaceful environment.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. There may be a limited number of English-speaking guides during peak tourist seasons, but most tours are conducted in Mandarin.
Start with a boat ride on the reservoir to get an overview of the area. Afterward, hike the nearby trails for scenic views, and finish by visiting the temples and cultural sites. A relaxing picnic by the reservoir is a nice way to end the visit.
There are no light shows or night tours available at Heilongtan Reservoir. However, the area is beautiful and peaceful for those wishing to enjoy the quiet at dusk.
The area can get crowded during national holidays and weekends. To avoid the crowds, it is best to visit on weekdays or during the off-peak seasons like early spring or late autumn.
There are public toilets, water fountains, and rest areas available throughout the area. Food is available at small local stalls near the reservoir, and there are souvenir shops offering local crafts.
The scenic area is accessible for most visitors, with paved paths and rest areas. However, some of the hiking trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Wheelchair accessibility is limited.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted, but some smaller vendors may only accept cash. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially in more remote areas of the site.
There are several small local restaurants and cafes near the reservoir offering Sichuan specialties, including hotpot and fish dishes. More dining options can be found in Meishan city center.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially in some of the restaurants. Halal food options are more limited but can be found in larger cities like Meishan.
