Guanma Reservoir

Guanma Reservoir is located on the upper reaches of the Hulan River, a tributary of the Huifa River, one kilometre northwest of Guanma Village in Hulan Town. It sits on the tourist route connecting Huanghe Reservoir, Guanma Karst Cave and Lianhuashan Forest Park. It is a medium-sized comprehensive reservoir mainly built for irrigation and flood control, with additional functions of power generation and diversified businesses.

Construction first began in 1943 during the Japanese puppet occupation era, and the reservoir was reconstructed many times after the liberation of China. The dam stands 14 metres high with a crest length of 393 metres, and the total storage capacity reaches 11.5 million cubic metres.

Lush natural forests surround the reservoir area, which provides habitats for various wild animals. More than thirty species of birds have been recorded here. Encircled by mountains and protected from vegetation damage in the upper reaches, the reservoir boasts crystal-clear water teeming with many kinds of fish. The average water depth is about 7 metres, with the deepest point reaching 12 metres. The low water temperature slows fish growth, resulting in tender and delicious fish meat. The big-pot stewed fish at Guanma Reservoir is a local specialty, together with a rich variety of wild natural vegetables picked from mountains.

Since 1993, the reservoir has focused on tourism development and kept improving supporting facilities. The expanded dining hall can hold 200 guests at one time, and the guest house accommodates 80 visitors. Recreational facilities include a dance hall, table tennis and billiards. The green belts along the reservoir and the drainage platform below the dam have also been renovated. Today it serves as an all-in-one resort for sightseeing, angling and leisure vacations.