It is under the administration of the prefecture-level city of Yangquan and occupies its northern majority.

Yu County's name refers to its cup-like shape.

Yu County was settled by the Spring and Autumn period, when it formed an independent kingdom.[which?]

It is best known for its production of black pepper and coal.

The GDP per capita was equal to 3,646 yuan income for farmers and the total retail sales of consumer goods has reached 970 million yuan.