Beilun River Rafting in Dongxing

Beilun River Rafting in Dongxing

The Beilun River, a renowned border river between China and Vietnam. Its source lies in the Dayao Mountain Range at the southern foot of the Shiwandashan Mountains in Guangxi. This area features continuous rugged peaks, numerous valleys, dense forests, and abundant streams, producing a wealth of cassia bark, star anise, and various medicinal plants. Scattered among the mountains are Yao, Miao, Zhuang ethnic groups, as well as ethnic minorities from the Vietnamese side of the border river, fostering a rich cultural tapestry of frontier life. In the 1930s and 1940s, this region was a base for the Guangdong-Guangxi Border Column led by the Chinese Communist Party. It was also where the famed Qing Dynasty general Liu Yongfu led the Black Flag Army in fierce battles against French forces. The celebrated Han Dynasty general Ma Yuan (also known as General Fubo) once crossed the border and marched southward, his glorious military exploits forever recorded in history. The flames of the Naliang Uprising and the heroic tales of the Overseas Chinese Independent Regiment, which struck fear into the hearts of enemies along the border, have left behind a profound cultural legacy in this frontier region.

Beilun River Rafting is located in Fanhe Village, southwest of Naliang Town along the Frontier Highway. It is a natural scenic area that combines nature, local folklore, and foreign charm. The scenic zone is situated in the upper reaches of the Beilun River, within the subtropical zone, enjoying pleasant weather year-round, abundant water flow, and the possibility of rafting throughout the year. The riverbanks are lined with jagged peaks, while the slopes on both sides are covered with azaleas native to southern China. The river presents thrilling rapids as well as calm, clear pools. “Twin green cliffs rise facing one another, while a stream of crystal-clear water seems to descend from the clouds.” A two-hour rafting journey allows you to take in the mesmerizing scenery of the Beilun River, experience the romantic ambiance of a neighboring country, and enjoy the thrill of “sailing along the waves with the mountains of both nations accompanying your journey.”

At the end point of the Beilun River rafting, you’ll find the No. 9 Boundary Marker of the Qing Dynasty. As you drift downstream, the riverside scenery is picturesque—lush mountains, clear waters, blue skies, and bright sunshine. However, due to the varying currents of the border river, ranging from rushing rapids to gentle flows, you’ll alternate between heart-pounding excitement and serene relaxation. Being in this environment fills you with boundless joy and refreshment.

The full rafting course in the Beilun River Source Scenic Area spans approximately 5.1 kilometers, with a total elevation drop of about 160 meters. The route includes 38 rapids, with the largest drop reaching around 8 meters. The entire rafting trip takes about 1.5 hours. It is a tourism activity that blends thrills, excitement, and nature, combining sports, entertainment, and sightseeing.

Transportation Guide

Scenic Area Address: Fanhe Village, southwest of Naliang Town, Dongxing City, Fangchenggang

By Bus: Take a bus from Fangchenggang to Dongxing, then transfer to a local shuttle bus to reach the scenic area.

By Car: Depart from Fangchenggang city center, enter Xiwang Bridge, drive along Xiwang Bridge, turn into the roundabout, continue driving along the roundabout, make a slight right turn at the second exit onto the Frontier Highway, drive along the Frontier Highway, turn into S325, continue along S325, turn back onto the Frontier Highway, and drive along it until you reach the final destination.