Liujiaxia Reservoir, body of water

Liujiaxia Reservoir is a large water body in Gansu Province in northwestern China, created by a dam built across the Yellow River. The water extends widely over an irregular shoreline surrounded by rolling hills, covering an area that spans multiple county boundaries.

The reservoir was built in the late 1960s to store water, regulate the Yellow River flow, and prevent flooding in the region. Over time, sediment accumulated in the basin, but the capacity loss has been less significant compared to other dams further downstream.

The name comes from the nearby town of Liujiaxia. Local people use the water daily for fishing, small boat rides, and irrigation, activities that have shaped their way of life for generations.

The reservoir is easily accessible with a dock near Liujiaxia Town, where boats depart to various locations including Bingling Temple. Visitors should bring appropriate clothing for changing weather conditions, especially when planning boat rides.

The reservoir usually does not freeze in winter, but during the unusually cold weather of early 2008 more than half its surface froze, forcing measures to protect the hydroelectric turbines from floating ice.