A suitable type of penstock should be selected for highhead hydropower station with diversion penstock. In this sense, it is proposed the analytic method and finite element method to design exposed steel penstock and steel lined reinforced concrete penstock, referring to relevant specifications. Results show that thicker or highcarbon steel plates could be decreased for steel lined reinforced concrete penstock compared with exposed steel penstock, which can lower the costs and avoid difficulties in rolling and welding. Additionally, the expansion joints and supports are not required, as well as complex installation and maintenance technology. Besides, due to the particular case around the steel pipe, slope support and pipeline backfill can be an alternative. Thus, the penstock will not be greatly affected by landslides and other similar natural hazards.