Xiaolangdi Scenic Area of the Yellow River

Historical Overview

• Construction Era (1994–2001): Built with World Bank loans and international expertise, the project involved over 100,000 workers. It marked China’s first large-scale use of foreign technology in hydraulic engineering.
• Ecological Impact (2000s–Present): Ended the Yellow River's history of drying up, restored 4,400 square kilometers of farmland irrigation, and became a model for sustainable water management.
• Cultural Significance: The dam site aligns with ancient legends of Yu the Great's Yellow River governance, blending modern engineering with 4,000 years of flood-control heritage.

Structural Layout

The area is divided into three zones:

1. Dam Core Zone: Features the 154-meter-high dam, 113-meter-tall inlet towers, and underground powerhouse (world’s largest in sandstone).
2. Reservoir Zone: Includes the 23-square-kilometer Xixia Yuan Reservoir and "Yellow River Three Gorges" (Bali Hutong, Longfeng, and Gushan canyons).
3. Ecological Zone: Wetlands, migratory bird habitats, and the historic Xitan Island ("God’s Island" from myth).

Key structures:

• Spillway: World’s largest orifice-type flood discharge tunnel.
• Sediment Control System: Reduces downstream silt by 170 million tons annually.

Major Attractions

1. Xiaolangdi Dam: Walk across the 1,317-meter-long dam crest for panoramic views of the reservoir.
2. Inlet Tower Group: A 276-meter-wide cluster of 108 tunnels, dubbed the "Dragon’s Gate."
3. Yellow River Three Gorges: Take a cruise through Bali Hutong Gorge, where cliffs rise 200 meters above the water.
4. Xitan Island: Explore peach blossoms in spring and observe over 500 migratory bird species.
5. Xixia Yuan Reservoir: A 3.1-billion-cubic-meter lake offering kayaking and fishing.
6. Digital Twin Control Center: Interactive exhibits on flood simulation and smart water management.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic Route (2–3 hours):
   Visitor Center → Dam Observatory → Inlet Towers → Ecological Wetland → Return
   Highlights: Engineering scale, wetland biodiversity, and reservoir vistas.

2. Extended Route (4–5 hours):
   Visitor Center → Dam Interior Tour → Xixia Yuan Reservoir Cruise → Xitan Island → Sunset at Longfeng Gorge
   Highlights: Underground powerhouse access, island ecology, and canyon sunsets.

3. Comprehensive Route (Full Day):
   Visitor Center → Engineering Museum → Dam Crest Walk → Xixia Yuan Cruise → Xitan Island Exploration → Digital Control Center → Night Light Show
   Highlights: Full immersion in hydraulic technology, cultural myths, and modern ecosystem management.

Ticket Purchase

• Entrance Fee: ¥40 (peak season: Mar–Nov), ¥20 (off-season: Dec–Feb).
• Concessions: 50% off for students/teachers; free for seniors, children under 1.4m, and military personnel.
• Online: Book via Ctrip or WeChat 3 days in advance.
• On-Site: Tickets available at the visitor center; queues average 20 minutes.

Transportation

• From Luoyang: 40-minute drive via G30 Expressway (¥50 toll).
• Bus: Luoyang Bus Station → Xiaolangdi Direct Bus (¥15, 1.5 hours).
• Taxi: ¥120 one-way from Luoyang downtown.
• Park Shuttle: ¥30/day for unlimited use of electric carts.

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Seasons: March–May (peach blossoms), June–July (sediment discharge spectacle).
• Avoid Crowds: Visit weekdays; weekends host large domestic tour groups.
• Essentials:
  • Wear sturdy shoes for dam tours (20,000+ steps possible).
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching (500+ species recorded).
  • Photography: Long-exposure shots recommended for waterfalls.
• Prohibited Items: Drones (require permit), fishing without license.
• Eco-Tip: Participate in "Protect the Mother River" volunteer programs to join beach cleanups.