Miyun Reservoir Dam Miyun Beijing
A monumental reservoir and dam, offering vast water vistas and a refreshing escape north of Beijing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, clear skies, fewer crowds
Miyun Reservoir Dam Miyun Beijing
Best Time
Crisp air, clear skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental reservoir and dam, offering vast water vistas and a refreshing escape north of Beijing.
"A gigantic misty water reservoir, much cooler than downtown during the summer. Perfect escape."
📸 Capture the Scale
Bring your best camera gear! Wide-angle lenses are great for the dam and reservoir views.
🚗 Consider a Driver
Public transport can be slow. A private driver offers flexibility to explore the dam and surrounding areas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Miyun Reservoir Dam
Miyun District, Beijing
A monumental feat of engineering, offering vast water views and a sense of scale.
The "Pearl in North China"
Miyun Reservoir
Asia's largest artificial lake, providing breathtaking panoramic vistas and a refreshing escape.
Scenic Mountain Backdrops
Surrounding Miyun Reservoir
Lush mountains frame the reservoir, creating a picturesque landscape perfect for photography.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Getting There and Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Scale
Bring your best camera gear! Wide-angle lenses are great for the dam and reservoir views. 
🚗 Consider a Driver
Public transport can be slow. A private driver offers flexibility to explore the dam and surrounding areas.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Options can be limited, especially outside peak season. Stay hydrated and fueled for exploration.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll likely do some walking around the dam and scenic spots.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Scale
Bring your best camera gear! Wide-angle lenses are great for the dam and reservoir views.
🚗 Consider a Driver
Public transport can be slow. A private driver offers flexibility to explore the dam and surrounding areas.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Options can be limited, especially outside peak season. Stay hydrated and fueled for exploration.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll likely do some walking around the dam and scenic spots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Miyun Reservoir is praised for its impressive scale, vast water views, and cooler climate, offering a peaceful escape from Beijing. Visitors appreciate the engineering marvel of the dam and the scenic mountain backdrops. Some note that amenities can be limited and transportation requires planning.
"Miyun Reservoir 密云水库
Miyun Reservoir is located in Beijing
Location Miyun District, Beijing
Coordinates 40°29′N 116°59′E
Type reservoir
Basin countries China
Built September 1, 1960
The Miyun Reservoir (Chinese: 密云水库; pinyin: Mìyún Shuǐkù) is a large-scale reservoir in Miyun District, Beijing, China, straddling the Chao River (潮河) and Bai River (白河). There are two major rivers flowing into the reservoir, namely the Bai River and the Chao River. The reservoir was formally completed on September 1, 1960.
The Miyun Reservoir is the largest comprehensive water conservancy project in North China. The reservoir covers an area of 180 square kilometers, with a reservoir capacity of 4 billion cubic meters and an average depth of 30 meters, making it the largest and only source of drinking-water supply for Beijing, serving over 11 million people.
The Miyun Reservoir is the largest artificial lake in Asia and is billed as the "Pearl in North China" (华北明珠).
- From Wikipedia"
Vagabond Couple
"A gigantic misty water reservoir. Some villages shatter around its rim. Much cooler than the downtown during the summer. Perfect escape."
K Joe
"If you've read Death's End (三體3) by Liu Cixin, then you know this is the place where Chengxin and Tianming first spoke to each other."
M. Wallace
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Getting to Miyun Reservoir Dam from central Beijing typically involves a journey of about 1.5 to 2 hours. While public buses are available, they can be time-consuming. Many visitors opt for hiring a private car or driver for a more convenient and flexible experience, allowing them to stop at various viewpoints.
Once you arrive at the reservoir, local taxis or ride-sharing services might be available, but they can be scarce. Having a pre-arranged driver or a rental car is highly recommended for exploring the dam area and nearby attractions.
For photographers, a private car or driver is ideal. This allows you to stop at various scenic points for the best light and angles, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Yes, you can take public buses from Beijing to Miyun District, and then potentially local transport to the dam. However, this is the slowest option and requires multiple transfers.
Miyun Reservoir makes for a rewarding day trip, especially if you have a car. It offers a significant change of scenery and a break from the city bustle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the general areas around Miyun Reservoir and its dam is typically free. However, specific scenic spots or attractions within the broader reservoir area might have separate entrance fees. It's always good to check local information upon arrival.
The reservoir and dam area are generally accessible year-round. However, specific visitor centers or facilities might have set operating hours. It's advisable to check for any seasonal changes or specific timings for any paid attractions.
The main reservoir area and dam are usually free to access. Some surrounding parks or viewpoints might charge a small fee.
While the reservoir itself is vast, access to specific points like the dam might be subject to local regulations or security. It's best to visit during daylight hours for the best experience and safety.
Generally, visitors can access the dam for sightseeing. However, it's wise to be aware of any posted signs or local advisories regarding restricted areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The dam itself offers a grand perspective. For wider shots, head to elevated viewpoints around the reservoir's rim. The surrounding mountains also provide stunning backdrops, especially during golden hour.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the vastness of the reservoir and dam. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant mountain details. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset can create dramatic skies over the water.
The sheer scale of the dam is a primary photo opportunity. The interplay of water, sky, and surrounding mountains provides endless scenic shots.
Drone regulations can be strict in China. It's essential to check current local laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone near the reservoir or dam.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Beyond the dam, you can enjoy the vast lake views, explore nearby villages like Xiwengzhuang, and appreciate the cooler climate compared to downtown Beijing. It's a great spot for a peaceful escape.
Yes, the scenic surroundings make it an ideal spot for a picnic. Find a quiet spot along the reservoir's edge to relax and enjoy the views.
It's generally cooler than Beijing city, especially during summer. The weather can be variable, so checking the forecast before you go is recommended.
The mountainous terrain surrounding the reservoir offers potential for hiking, though marked trails might be limited. Exploring the natural beauty is a key part of the experience.
Crowds are generally lower than major Beijing attractions, especially on weekdays and outside of peak holiday seasons. Early mornings are usually the quietest.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1🚗 Road Trippers & Drivers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Miyun Reservoir Dam
Visitors often remark on the vastness of the reservoir and the impressive engineering. The dam itself is a concrete behemoth, and the surrounding landscape, with mountains meeting the expansive water, creates a dramatic and picturesque scene. It's a place that inspires awe and offers a stark contrast to the urban environment of Beijing.
For those interested in infrastructure or simply seeking grand vistas, the dam is a must-see. The surrounding area offers opportunities for leisurely walks and enjoying the cooler, fresher air compared to the city. It's a testament to China's capacity for large-scale projects and its importance in managing water resources.
Photography Opportunities at Miyun Reservoir
+1The reservoir's expansive surface, often reflecting the sky, creates beautiful, serene shots. The surrounding mountains add depth and color, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Many visitors find the landscape to be incredibly photogenic, with opportunities for both grand panoramic views and more intimate shots of nature.
+1To make the most of your photography, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best light. The changing seasons also offer different palettes, from the lush greens of summer to the muted tones of autumn.
A Literary Connection: Death's End
Knowing this literary connection can add another layer of appreciation to your visit. As you stand by the vast waters, you might imagine the profound conversations that took place there, adding a touch of speculative fiction to the real-world grandeur of the reservoir. It's a unique aspect that sets Miyun Reservoir apart for many visitors.
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