Picture this. You stand before Longkou Reservoir a vast expanse of water nestled within the bustling city of Shenzhen. This isn’t just any reservoir. Longkou Reservoir is a vital part of Shenzhen’s water supply network. It’s a first-grade water source protection area. Its creation was a remarkable feat of engineering.
Longkou Reservoir was built in March 1965. It serves both irrigation and drinking water purposes. The reservoir’s waters gather from about 65 square kilometers of land. This area includes urban zones and forested regions in southern Guangdong province. The reservoir sits close to Donghu Park and Fairy Lake Botanical Garden. It drains the western slope of Mount Wutong. Imagine the stunning views from those locations.
Did you know that Longkou Reservoir’s creation was part of a larger effort? China built ten major reservoirs in the area at the time. This was during a period of great challenges. The country faced famine and difficulties from the policies of the Great Leap Forward. Water conservation was a high priority then. Longkou’s construction highlights this focus on improving water resources.
The sheer scale of Longkou Reservoir is impressive. Its surface area covers 60.5 square kilometers. It has a water volume of 45,770,000 cubic meters. That’s a truly massive amount of water. This immense reservoir stands as a testament to human ingenuity. It’s a vital source of water for this growing metropolis.
Longkou Reservoir is more than just a functional water source. It is a popular recreation area. People hike and enjoy its scenic surroundings. It’s easy to reach. Take bus numbers 3 17 23 29 211 308 320 or 351 to Shuiku Bus Stop. The reservoir itself is open to the public every evening from 6 pm to 9 pm. Enjoy the tranquility of Longkou Reservoir on your next Shenzhen adventure. Its history is a reminder of both engineering skill and the importance of water resources. It’s a must-see sight in Shenzhen.