Wupai River Canyon Drift Scenic Area

Wupai River Canyon Drift Scenic Area

The Wupai River is located in Ziyuan County in the northwest of Guilin City, at the southwestern foot of Mao'er Mountain, the highest peak in South China. It is 107 kilometers from Guilin City, making transportation very convenient — visitors from Guilin can make a round trip within a single day. The river originates from Jinzishan Mountain, which stands at an elevation of 1,883 meters, and is the second largest river in Ziyuan County. After flowing through three ethnic townships — Chetian, Lianshui, and Hekou — it surges westward, joining the Liujiang River and eventually flowing into the Pearl River, thus belonging to the Pearl River system.

“Risky waters, unique rocks, secluded forests, and beautiful waterfalls” are the distinctive features of the Wupai River landscape. The entire adventure drift stretch spans approximately 30 kilometers. The river is 5 to 30 meters wide. The drop between the upper and lower reaches reaches nearly 300 meters, with many rapids and fast-flowing water. The banks are covered in dense forests and dotted with rugged rocks. This area also blends harmoniously with the simple and primitive mountain villages of the Miao and Yao ethnic groups, offering breathtaking scenery that is both ancient and majestic.

After multiple inspections by relevant departments and experts, it has been determined that the most valuable section of the Wupai River for tourism development is the 30-kilometer stretch from Chetian (near the township government seat) to Hekou (also near its township government seat). With deep canyons, serene valleys, perilous shoals, rapid currents, towering mountains, unique rocks, and beautiful riverside views, along with rich ethnic customs, this section leaves a profound impression on visitors who come for drifting and exploration.

Drifting down the Wupai River in a bamboo raft or rubber boat is like embarking on a journey into a mysterious valley. With many bends, steep mountains, deep forests, and serene gorges, all worldly noise suddenly disappears. The river carries you into a primitive and untouched natural realm.

The Wupai River is 5 to 30 meters wide, with a drop of nearly 300 meters between its upper and lower reaches. What meets the eye are one rapid after another, almost forming a continuous stretch of turbulent waters. When drifting for adventure, the rubber boat speeds down the torrent, facing walls of white foam. The boat flips and weaves, splashing through the rapids. You might enter a rapid section completely dry, only to emerge thoroughly soaked. The surging Wupai River is like a wild horse breaking free, galloping and leaping through the deep mountains and hidden valleys. As long as you are fearless and press onward, you will eventually tame this untamed steed and become its master.

Exploring the Wupai River is an adventure where the ancient, wild, and thrilling environment can turn ordinary people into heroes and cowards into warriors, while also allowing you to enjoy the endless thrill of conquering nature.

Drifting along the Wupai River feels like floating amidst drifting clouds — surreal, misty, thrilling, and full of the joy of returning to and conquering nature. It has been recognized by experts from the General Administration of Sport of China as the most ideal river section in China, and the only one capable of meeting all six levels of training and competition requirements for global whitewater slalom sports. It has been designated by the Sports Administration as a “National Water Sports Training Base.” In 2001, the Wupai River National Drifting Invitational Tournament was successfully held here, followed by the first National Natural Water Area Drifting Competition in 2005, and the first Mass Drifting Festival in 2006.

Ticket Information · Opening Hours

138 RMB/person (each raft accommodates 8 people; groups of fewer than 6 must book the whole raft).

Transportation

1. Take a Guilin–Ziyuan express bus from Guilin Bus Terminal (every 30 minutes, fare: 12.5 RMB/person).

2. After arriving in Ziyuan, you can rent a car to get there (30 RMB/person round trip).