Nanxi River travel guide

Daruoyan Scenic Area

History & Culture · Temples · Photography · Mountains & Adventure · Nature

Shizi Rock (Lion Rock)

The graceful form of Lion Rock captivates photography enthusiasts, and the night, when the moon hangs bright overhead, is when it is at its most enchanting. Rafting is a signature Nanxi River experience that you should not miss.

1 hour

Fengyun Ancient Village

Seeing only the Nanxi River's strange rocks and beautiful waters while skipping its ancient villages would be a real mistake. Furong Ancient Village is the most famous of the Nanxi River villages. Its “Seven Stars and Eight Dippers” building layout takes some study to fully understand. Cobblestone paths, clear water flowing beneath stone-slab bridges, and white walls with grey tiles are a pleasure in themselves. Linkeng Village is one of the few residential villages that remain untouched. Its century-old wooden houses, roofed in black tiles, are built closely along the mountain slopes, arranged irregularly yet harmoniously, showing natural beauty in apparent disorder and unity within variety. Cangpo Village has a history of more than 800 years. Despite nearly a millennium of wind and rain, its appearance has barely changed. It still preserves Song dynasty village walls, roads, residences, pavilions, ancestral halls, ponds and ancient cypress trees, and its ancient charm endures. Lingshang Household sits with its back to the mountain and facing the stream, surrounded by vividly green hills and fresh air, a naturally favoured setting. The houses' exteriors retain their original look, simple and dignified, while the interiors have been carefully converted into teahouses and guesthouses, making it an excellent place to enjoy roast whole lamb.

¥20

Yongjia Academy

Yongjia Academy brings together mountains, water, rocks, forests, shoals and waterfalls, encompassing every scenic feature of the Nanxi River. Its beautiful surroundings resemble a landscape painting. Ancient villages are scattered all around, including Yuzhang Village, home of a single family that produced six jinshi (advanced scholars); Baiquan Village, known for its talented people; Mingao Village, a photography base; and sites associated with the reclusive life of Fan Li and Xi Shi. The cultural heritage here runs deep.

1 hour · ¥50

Shiwei Rock

This place concentrates the spirit of the Nanxi River. Strange peaks, green mountains and clear waters are its themes, and surrounded by flowing currents and lush vegetation, you feel completely removed from the outside world.

2–3 hours · ¥50 (includes boat fare)

Longwantan National Forest Park

To explore Longwantan, climb the plank walkway that follows the pools and waterfalls, admiring the vegetation and cascades from different vantage points. It is not as famous as Shiwei Rock, but its scenery is no less enchanting. Near the summit, a viewing platform hangs over the cliff face. Pause here, or call out to echo across the valley, and everything opens up. Try not to fixate on the sheer drop beneath your feet, because this fully transparent glass platform is thrilling to the extreme and can be a real test of nerves.

3–4 hours · ¥70

Lishui Ancient Street

There is a saying: “If you haven't visited Lishui Street at Yantou, you haven't really been to the Nanxi River.” Everything here is simple, rustic and steeped in history. At the southern end of the street, the Chengfeng Pavilion and Jieguan Pavilion, together with the Lishui Ancient Bridge, form a striking scene.

1–2 hours · ¥15; combined ticket ¥40 (includes Lishui Street, Cangpo Village and Furong Ancient Village)

Wild Pigeon Park

Nestled in a mountain hollow encircled by streams is a paradise for wild pigeons, which gather here to fly, looking even freer against the blue sky. At Wild Pigeon Park, beyond feeding the birds, you can camp and picnic on the artificial beach and grassy lawns, and pass your free time at a relaxed pace.

0.5–1 day