Karamay Nine Dragons Pool: The Lifesource and Iconic Landmark of the Desert Oil City

Jiulongtan, also known as the Nine Dragon Pool, serves as the critical entrance point for the water diversion project that supplies the urban area of Karamay. Located within the core area of the Karamay River, this landmark is far more than a simple tourist attraction; it is a monumental engineering feat that symbolizes the city's triumph over its arid environment. The site marks the endpoint of a massive undertaking that redirects water from the Irtysh River, located hundreds of kilometers away, into the heart of the "Oil City".

1.The architectural centerpiece of: Jiulongtan is a grand antique-style gate featuring nine large dragon heads. These dragons are depicted spouting water, a powerful visual representation of the life-giving resources being pumped into a region once described as having "no grass, no water, and no birds". This imagery connects modern industrial achievement with traditional Chinese symbolism, where the dragon represents power and the guardianship of water.

As a scenic hub, Jiulongtan integrates the technological wonder of water management with urban leisure. It provides a space where visitors can appreciate the scale of the Irtysh-Karamay project while enjoying the surrounding parkland. The steady flow of water from the dragon heads into the river serves as a continuous reminder of the human spirit and the transformation of a desolate wasteland into a thriving modern oasis.