Yujiang Chunfan

　　Yujiang Chunfan is one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Wuzhou. It refers to the area where the Gui River and the Xun River (the upper reaches of the Xijiang River) converge. The clear water from the Gui River flows alongside the muddy flow of the Xijiang River — one murky, one clear; one rapid, one gentle — distinctly separate, commonly known as the Mandarin Duck River. It was highly praised by the great Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo as “a peerless, exquisite waterway of mandarin ducks.”

　　The scenery of the Mandarin Duck River is picturesque. Looking out, you can see the vast expanse of the Xijiang River with its surging waters, while the Gui River is emerald green with sparkling ripples. At their confluence, the two rivers appear like mandarin ducks playing in the water — embracing and nestling against each other, inseparable and reluctant to part. Legend has it that when the great Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo was traveling through Wuzhou on his way home after receiving amnesty, he happened to be there on a Mid-Autumn night. As he floated down the Mandarin Duck River, he was deeply moved by the sight of the clear and muddy waters flowing side by side, and was inspired to compose a poem: “I love the clear stream, my oar strikes the waves, the Mandarin Duck’s exquisite waters are truly peerless.” Thus the name “Mandarin Duck River” spread among the people. “Yujiang Chunfan” is ranked as the foremost of the Eight Scenic Spots of Wuzhou. Every visitor to Wuzhou who sees this sight marvels in admiration.

　　In late 1984, Wuzhou City developed a scenic area called “Yujiang Chunfan” on the Sanjiaozui area along the western riverbank. With its classic and elegant pavilions and the winding riverside corridor that undulates along the banks, the site attracts many visitors who lean on the railings, gazing at the mighty river flowing eastward, admiring the spectacular convergence of clear and muddy waters, and also viewing the ancient Yunsheng Pagoda on the volcano in the southern hills. In June 2000, the Yujiang Bridge was built at the confluence of the two rivers, offering even greater convenience for sightseeing visitors.