Xijiang River Rafting

Xijiang River Rafting

The Xijiang River is an important waterway in Tashan Township, originating from Tian Tang Mountain, which stands at an elevation of 1,265 meters within the Tashan Yao Ethnic Township of Changning City. The Xijiang Scenic Area, located in Xijiang Village, is characterized by its high mountain gorges, cascading waterfalls, sea of clouds and rime frost, rafting adventures, and the folk customs of the Yao people. It is a key component of the provincial-level scenic area. Major attractions include the thrilling Xijiang River Rafting, where you can let loose and embrace a carefree life, the majestic and awe-inspiring Longtan Waterfall, the winding and picturesque Snake-shaped Wuxia Gorge, and the vibrant and graceful cultural charm of the Yao people. In recent years, the local tourism economy has seen significant development. Xijiang River Rafting has become a prominent tourism brand in southern Hunan, and sightseeing along the Xijiang River is now widely known, making it an ideal destination for visitors to escape the summer heat and enjoy leisure time.

The Xijiang River Rafting route starts at Wanmuyuan in Xijiang Village and ends at Puzhuyuan in Puzhu Village, passing through scenic spots such as Lancaipo, Xijiangkou, Shexingwan, and Jianbaoshan. The entire journey spans approximately 10 kilometers and takes over two hours to complete, earning it the reputation of “China’s No. 1 Yao Ethnic Rafting Experience.” The rafting section features rapid currents, sharp turns, and a total drop of 100 meters, including 16 rapids and more than 20 sharp bends. The surrounding scenery, combined with rotating waterwheels, ancient Yao villages, melodious Yao folk songs, and enchanting legends, creates a simple, rich, and unique rafting experience that showcases the cultural essence of the Yao people.

The Xijiang River Rafting project is overseen by the Changning City Tourism Bureau and operated by Xijiang River Rafting Co., Ltd. In 1999, the Changning Municipal Party Committee and Government vigorously implemented a strategy combining tourism development with poverty alleviation, establishing a tourism development task force. In October 1999, the city’s tourism bureau and Tashan Township government organized a trip to Dongjiang in Zixing City for research. On May 1, 2000, Xijiang River Rafting officially opened to the public. Since its launch, it has remained a unique highlight of Changning, a flagship product of the city’s tourism offerings, and a distinctive feature of Changning’s tourism culture.