Jing County: The Number One Drift in the South of the Yangtze

Jing County: The Number One Drift in the South of the Yangtze

The “Number One Drift in the South of the Yangtze” is situated along the final section of the Huishui River as it passes through Jing County, with the scenic area covering about 20 kilometers. It is the only officially registered and nationally recognized eco-tourism destination bearing the “Number One Drift in the South of the Yangtze” rafting brand. The river features winding channels, rapid currents, and lush, beautiful scenery on both banks. The 11-kilometer rafting section begins at Xiaohekou Dock in Wuxi Village, Langqiao Town, Jing County (the hometown of Xuan paper), and ends at Pingyuan Village, Huangcun Town.

Among the rivers suitable for rafting in East China and even across the country, the section used for the Number One Drift in the South of the Yangtze is undoubtedly one of the best. Boarding a bamboo raft handcrafted by local villagers using traditional techniques passed down through generations, you’ll navigate through rapids and rocky shoals, with splashing water drenching your face and body—an exhilarating yet safe thrill that gets your adrenaline pumping. Wild ducks gather in flocks along the way, creating a serene and profound atmosphere reminiscent of the bold spirit described in the line, “The monkeys’ cries on both banks never cease; our light boat has left ten thousand mountains behind.”

The Huishui River rafting journey takes you through five major scenic zones. The starting point is called Longtan (Dragon Pool), where long rapids and fierce waves make the raft bob and weave with the currents, giving you a thrilling sense of conquering nature. Next comes the “Zao Wu Shan” (Early Mist Mountain) zone, where clouds and mist linger all day, and the river is calm and steady, soothing the thrill-seeker’s heart into a state of gentle contentment.

At the lower end of Early Mist Mountain, the river takes a sudden sharp turn to form “Diao Tan” (Cunning Pool). Huge rocks on the bank bear the carved words “Tan Gu Yin” (Ancient Pool Imprint), vividly recording the tough times of former rafting workers. Countless rafters are said to have fallen into the water here, yet strangely floated rather than sank—giving rise to the legendary tale that “Diao Tan is not so cunning after all.”

Then there’s the “Hu Lao Wan Surfing” section, which twists and turns with multiple drops, featuring ridges within the rapids and rapids within the ridges. With a drop of over a meter along its more than 1,000-meter stretch, this part truly captures the poetic essence of “The monkeys’ cries on both banks never cease; our light boat has left ten thousand mountains behind.” Just past the turbulent rapids, a new scene unfolds—Xixi Mountain. This area features high peaks, clear waters, frequent mists, and village houses nestled against the mountains and beside the water, offering an authentic rural charm. Stopping the raft along the stream and knocking on a wooden door, you may be treated to some of the finest green tea, “Xixi Mountain Maofeng.” Next comes the Wunque Ridge scenic area, home to attractions such as Rooster Rock, Horse Shadow Rock, Wooden Fish Mound, a hundred-acre lawn, Evening Fishing at High Shoal, and Broken Bridge over Green Water—often referred to as the “Little Li River of the South.”

The “Number One Drift in the South of the Yangtze” is the final bamboo rafting experience along the Huishui River in Jing County. The river here winds through a richly varied landscape of rapid currents, distinct elevation changes, interconnected shallow bends and deep pools, and uniquely shaped peaks and rocks on both banks—all combining to create a stunning scene reminiscent of an exquisitely expressive traditional Chinese painting.

The most thrilling and exciting activity on the Number One Drift in the South of the Yangtze is the water fight. Before getting on the raft, everyone gears up with water guns, ladles, basins, buckets, and more, creating an atmosphere as if war is about to break out. People engage in endless, refreshing water battles, immersing themselves in the natural surroundings, regardless of age or origin. Everyone mingles and plays together in perfect harmony, as if rediscovering the joys of childhood, while also deepening bonds through this playful water combat.

Rafting on the Number One Drift in the South of the Yangtze offers different experiences at different times of the day. Morning drifts allow you to enjoy the dreamy beauty of mist-shrouded mountains and fog-wrapped green trees, while evening drifts bring the rustic charm of cattle returning home and children playing in the fields—leaving a lasting impression and allowing you to further appreciate the endless allure of the Number One Drift in the South of the Yangtze.