Qinghai Province is located in the northwestern part of China, on the northeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, bordering the provinces and regions of Gansu, Xinjiang, Tibet, and Sichuan. Covering an area of approximately 721,000 square kilometers, Qinghai accounts for about one-seventh of China’s total land area. The province is vast with a relatively low population density. Situated on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, its geographical location results in high altitudes and unique climatic conditions.

Qinghai is often referred to as the "Water Tower of China" due to its abundant water resources. It is the source of three of China’s major rivers—the Yellow River, Yangtze River, and Lancang River. 

The Sanjiangyuan area, located in the southern part of Qinghai Province, is the source of these three rivers. The glaciers, precipitation, and mountain rivers in this region converge to form the three "mother rivers," providing abundant water resources for downstream areas. The wetlands and grasslands in Sanjiangyuan serve as an important ecological barrier for the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and are crucial for water conservation and biodiversity.

The Huangshui River, an important tributary of the Yellow River, flows from west to east through Qinghai's eastern regions, including Xining and Haidong. The Huangshui River basin is one of the more economically and densely populated areas of Qinghai, with agricultural irrigation and urban water usage along the river relying heavily on its water sources. The river is also a key focus for water resource management and ecological protection in Qinghai.