Youxi River Rafting Scenic Area

　　Hunan Rafting – The Youxi River Rafting Scenic Area is one of the four major scenic zones within the Zi-Quijie–Meishan Dragon Palace National Key Scenic Spot, situated in Jiqing Town, Xinhua County, Hunan Province. It consists of two sub-areas: the Youxi River Rafting section and the Meishan Ancient Village section.

　　Youxi River Rafting

　　The Youxi River is the second-largest tributary of the Zi River within Xinhua County, stretching 134 li in total length, with 56 li developed for tourism. It is known as the No.1 Canyon Rafting Destination in China. Towering cliffs rise on both banks, steep rock faces stand opposite one another, while lush forests and dense clusters of strange rocks abound across hundreds of peaks and hills. The river boasts turbulent currents, deep channels, numerous treacherous rapids, and layered pools. Along the 24-li rafting course, adventurers will pass 28 mountains, 34 rock walls, 48 rapids, 39 bends, 27 gorges, 12 gates, and 46 pools, with a total drop of nearly 200 meters. It is the first in China to combine free-flow rafting with thrill-seeking rafting. The entire journey takes two and a half hours — an experience full of excitement, wonder, and adrenaline.

　　Meishan Ancient Village Scenic Area

　　The Meishan Ancient Village Scenic Area is located between the Chenguang Hydropower Station and the Yanghong Hydropower Station in Jiqing Town, Xinhua County, upstream from the rafting area. The dam’s reservoir covers an area of 500,000 square meters. The area is famous for its Three Gorges: Tiger Leap Gorge, Immortal Gorge, and General Gorge, spanning a total length of 48 li. Drifting upstream, visitors are greeted by opposing green mountains and towering cliffs that closely resemble the scenery of the Yangtze River’s Three Gorges. The scenic area includes one of the few wild fishing bases in central Hunan; a massive natural cliff painting wall acclaimed as “a unique wonder of China”; a long corridor-style wind-and-rain bridge exuding timeless charm; the ancient Qinglong Temple with its enduring incense offerings; a thousand-year-old cypress tree that has witnessed centuries of history; and an authentic Miao cultural tribal village where traditional customs thrive — all of which offer unforgettable sights and experiences.