The Pearl of the Yellow River: Engineering Splendor at Liujiaxia Dam

A Monument to Chinese Engineering

1.Located in Yongjing: County, Linxia Prefecture, Gansu Province, the Liujiaxia Dam is a historic landmark of modern China. It serves as the core of the Liujiaxia Hydropower Station, which was the first million-kilowatt hydropower station independently designed, built, and equipped by China. Construction began in 1958 and the station was fully completed in 1974, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's industrial self-reliance.

The "High Gorge and Smooth Lake"

The dam stands as a massive gravity structure, reaching a height of 147 meters with a crest length of 840 meters. By blocking the flow of the Yellow River through the deep canyons of the plateau, it created a vast reservoir known as Liujiaxia Lake, which covers an area of approximately 130 square kilometers. This feat of engineering effectively realized the poetic vision of "High Gorge, Smooth Lake," transforming a once-turbulent river into a serene inland sea.

The Phenomenon of the "Clear" Yellow River

2.One of the most striking features of: Liujiaxia is the clarity of its water. While the Yellow River is famous for its heavy silt load and muddy appearance further downstream, the river at Liujiaxia remains remarkably clear. Visitors at the dam can witness the rare sight of the "Clear Yellow River," where the turquoise waters of the reservoir contrast sharply with the red sandstone landforms of the surrounding canyons.

Gateway to Ancient Silk Road Treasures

Beyond its industrial significance, Liujiaxia Dam is the primary transportation hub for cultural tourism in the region. Most travelers visit the dam to board sightseeing boats that navigate the 54-kilometer reservoir route to reach the Bingling Temple Grottoes. This journey takes visitors through the dramatic Bingling Gorge, where towering red cliffs and unique geological formations provide a breathtaking backdrop to one of the most important Buddhist sites on the ancient Silk Road.