The First Drift on the Headwaters of the Huangpu River

The First Drift on the Headwaters of the Huangpu River

The First Drift on the Headwaters of the Huangpu River scenic spot is located in Heluxi Village, Dibu Town, Anji County, Zhejiang Province — known as China’s Bamboo Hometown.

The drift covers a total distance of 4.5 kilometers and takes about 60 minutes to complete. Hence the name: The First Drift on the Headwaters of the Huangpu River. Drifting along the river, you can experience the thrill of crashing waves and enjoy an extraordinary sense of tranquility. The route features well-balanced ups and downs, with stretches of calm water and sections of rapid torrents. Along the way, the scenery on both banks is picturesque, with lush forests and bamboo groves, surrounded by green mountains. Looking down, you’ll see crystal-clear stream water, wild ducks floating on the surface, and fish and shrimp swimming beneath. As you glide along, the views constantly change — in the distance, water and sky merge into one; up close, cormorants are seen fishing. Under your feet, the emerald-green water plants sway gently with the raft, tempting you to reach out and touch them. It’s truly a scenic journey where pastoral charm unfolds at every turn. This attraction centers around the core concept of “eco-participatory tourism,” offering a perfect blend of sightseeing and entertainment.

As the foremost drifting spot at the headwaters of the Huangpu River, it demands courage, strategy, boldness, and insight. Participating in the drift means bravely tackling five challenging sections. The first: Dragonfly Skimming; the second: Riding the Wind and Cleaving the Waves; the third: Charging Through Rapids; the fourth: Plunging Down a Waterfall; and the fifth: Two Dragons Playing with the Raft — working together in unity. It’s currently the peak travel season with beautiful scenery and pleasant weather. Tired of skyscrapers and bustling traffic? Come to the First Drift on the Headwaters of the Huangpu River, and let’s immerse ourselves in the harmony of nature and the warmth of human cooperation. Let’s ride the same raft, share the passion of riding the waves, and unveil the mysterious veil of our mother river together. Heluxi Village has a long history and is known for its eminent figures — such as the military leader Hu Zongnan and the scholar Zhu Lesan — leaving behind many wonderful legends. Not far from the scenic area stands the imposing “Crocodile Mountain.” Drifting along the river, wandering through ordinary lanes, listening to tales of old, indulging in nostalgic thoughts, tasting rustic farmhouse dishes — it’s truly a delightful experience. You certainly won’t leave disappointed.

Rapids vary in size and shape. Some are short, sudden bursts of water, while others are half-a-mile-long cascades. In certain stretches, the river widens due to the complex distribution of large rocks, slowing the current; in narrow cliff gaps, the water is forced through with intensity. Some channels are straight, while others are long and twisted, causing the main flow to crash against the canyon walls. Some have a moderate gradient but aren’t necessarily influenced by upstream flow, while others feature dramatic drops vastly different from the upstream current, appearing like horizons stretching across the river. Drifting is a challenge of both physical strength and courage. While seeking thrills and enjoyment, safety comes first, and you should master some essential techniques.

During the drift, there are many drop zones and large gradients. Avoid bringing items that can’t get wet to prevent them from falling or getting damaged. If you wear glasses, secure them with a rubber band beforehand. A life jacket must be worn throughout the trip to prevent capsizing when you least expect it. Pay attention to the arrows and signs along the way, as they help alert you to upcoming drop zones. When going through rapids, hold onto the inner grip straps of the raft. Those sitting in the back should lean slightly backward, and in a two-person raft, ensure balance and keep the raft parallel to the current. If the raft gets stuck, don’t stand up hastily — stabilize the raft and find solid footing before standing.