Pengshui Ayi River

Pengshui Ayi River

Pengshui Ayi River is a national AAAAA-level tourist attraction.

The Ayi River originates from Fen Shui Township in Wuchuan County, Guizhou Province, meandering northeastward into the territory of Pengshui County, Chongqing. It flows through Changqi Dam, Zhouzi Tuo, and Sanjiangkou before finally joining the Wu River at Changxitan in Wanzu Township. With a total length of 13 kilometers, the river features deep gorges, high cliffs, narrow riverbeds, and numerous reefs. Its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery make walking along its banks or drifting on the river feel like stumbling upon the Peach Blossom Spring as described by Tao Yuanming — as if in a beautiful paradise where one could easily lose all track of time. Drifting downstream from Zhouzi Tuo, visitors can observe a variety of canyon landforms along the way: towering stone stalagmites, playful monkey troops, solemn stone Buddha statues, unfathomable karst caves, and stalagmites that resemble arhats. The Pengshui section of the Ayi River boasts an exceptionally rich water resource, especially in the Qilitang and Er’tang river segments, where emerald-green waters flow serenely, flanked by lush bamboo forests on both banks.

The Ayi River basin is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including nationally protected animals such as black-leaf monkeys, five-step snakes, leopards, and Tibetan macaques. Surveys indicate the presence of 95 animal species across various families and genera, 63 bird species, and 169 plant species in the Ayi River basin. Hundreds of wild monkeys of various kinds are active in the area. The region also features a wealth of rare flowers, exotic plants, and ancient trees, such as Chinese tricolored maple and yew.

Since its opening, the Ayi River Scenic Area has won numerous honors, including “Top Ten Emerging Brands of National Ethnic Cultural Tourism,” “Top Ten Golden Self-Drive Tour Routes of China’s Beauty,” Chongqing’s “New Twelve Scenic Spots of Bayu,” “Top Ten Scenic Areas Contributing to the Development of Chongqing Tourism,” “Annual Most Charming Scenic Brand in the China Tourism Brand Awards,” and “Cool Retreat.” It has become a new favorite for eco-tourism in Chongqing.

Currently open to the public are the following activities:

1. Listening to the Valley Sounds

Stroll along the winding boardwalks by the riverbanks and listen to the sounds of nature for a delightful experience of this earthly paradise.

2. Bamboo Raft Singing

Hop on a bamboo raft to explore the serene Qilitang Gorge, where the journey feels like stepping into a fairyland.

3. Exploring Secluded Paths

Trek through the mysterious Mother and Son Stream, hiking upstream to admire the pristine wonders of the canyon — a breathtaking spectacle.

4. Playing in Emerald Pools

Board a boat at the Bamboo Bridge Pier, grip the bamboo pole, steer along the banks, and paddle at your leisure.

5. Love in the Miao Village

The Niu’jiao Village, a Miao-style riverside retreat, can accommodate about 300 guests for dining and lodging, and host meetings for over 100 people. In the evening, passionate folk performances under the moonlight next to the bonfire offer an unforgettable experience of Miao culture.

6. Riding the Rapids

The Ayi River rafting section below Niu’jiao Village stretches approximately 9 kilometers. Known as the “World’s Number One Self-Guided Rafting Experience,” it lets you enjoy thrilling excitement and embrace the vitality of life.

Contact number: 023-86622888

Further Reading:

· Batch 35 of National 5A-Level Tourist Attractions (January 2020)