Sai Shuangqing Park

Sai Shuangqing Park

Sai Shuangqing is located on the banks of the Zi River in Niangxi Town, Xinshao County. It consists of two hilltops, one hill spur, several bays, ravines, and rocky outcrops. The surging Zi River reaches this point and is blocked by a massive rock peak. The peak stands about 50 meters high, with sheer cliffs jutting abruptly from the river. Looking down from the top of the rock, the Zi River below seems like a bottomless abyss, which can be dizzying and frightening; yet gazing out at the river scenery from afar offers a vast, open view that is refreshing and uplifting. What’s even more remarkable is that according to the *Baoqing Prefecture Records*, “There is a cave beneath the mountain that goes straight through to the bottom of the pool. During the Qing Dynasty's Qianlong era, someone once ventured in with a torch and traveled about three li before suddenly hearing the sound of oars and drums, which frightened them into turning back.” Since the Ming Dynasty's Wanli era, temples, pavilions, and towers have been built on the mountain, adding even more charm to an already beautiful scenic spot. It surpasses Shaoyang’s “Shuangqing,” hence earning the name “Sai Shuangqing” (Surpassing Shuangqing). Beneath Sai Shuangqing lies a deep pool known as Jingkou Pool. In the several kilometers of river upstream from Jingkou Pool, the Zi River flows over a long stretch of rapids with a significant drop, creating very fast-moving water. The river rushes down to the massive rock and then suddenly turns back, forming a huge whirlpool with splashing water and thunderous roars. On the rock, there is a stone mortar called the “Treasure Basin.”

Covering an area of 130 acres, Sai Shuangqing Park is covered in lush trees, and its high-standard pathways lead to every corner, making it an ideal spot for couples. Traveling downstream along the river, you can enjoy the picturesque scenery of the Zi River’s “Little Three Gorges,” making it the perfect place for rafting and adventure.