Golden Silk Grand Canyon

　　The Danjiang River flows from west to south into Henan and Hubei. Within Shangnan County, the Danjiang is divided into two major parts: north and south of the river. North of the Danjiang lies the extension of Mangling and Liuling, where the mountains are round and the peaks undulate; south of the Danjiang is located in the hinterland of Xinkailing, featuring steep mountain shapes, deep valleys, a well-developed water system, dense forests, lush flowers and grass, high vegetation coverage, and a beautiful natural environment — the Golden Silk Grand Canyon is situated here.

　　The Golden Silk Grand Canyon consists of Bailong Gorge, Qinglong Gorge, Heilong Gorge, and Shiyan Stockade.

　　Bailong Gorge, commonly known as Qili Gorge or North Gorge. On the left side of the gorge entrance stands Fengshan Mountain, resembling a phoenix spreading its wings; on the right is Hou Shan Mountain, atop which sits a stone monkey, giving rise to the tale of the immortal monkey playing with the phoenix. On the left slope, there is also a towering rock called Immortal Stone, also known as Immortal Peak. The slope features bizarre rocks and hanging vines, creating a naturally whimsical landscape.

　　Qinglong Gorge, commonly known as East Gorge, is exceptionally steep. On both sides of the gorge, cliffs rise thousands of feet high, adorned with dangling vines. Even more unique is the dense growth of valuable evergreen trees such as pittosporum, camphor, and hemlock on the steep cliffs, their broad green canopies offering visitors a perfect summer retreat.

　　Heilong Gorge is located at the western end of the grand canyon. Traveling westward into Shiyan Stockade leads to the rugged and mysterious Heilong Gorge, which stretches about 10 kilometers. Due to the narrow and elongated canyon, water rushes through stone grooves, swirls in pools, and sparkles under sunlight like golden threads stringing pearls. This section, known as the Heilong Gorge of Golden Silk Canyon, is said to be at the extreme of both danger and beauty. The main scenic features of Golden Silk Canyon include deep and narrow valleys, sheer cliffs and perilous peaks, magical waterfalls, interconnected streams and pools, and an original, serene depth.

　　Shiyan Stockade stretches from north to south, with steep cliffs on the east, west, and south sides, leaving only a narrow path on the north slope. The stockade consists of five terraces. The first terrace has high cliffs and precipices on both sides, serving as a gateway to the mountain path. Known as the South Heaven Gate, the main stockade is on the second terrace, which is a sacred site of Taoism.

　　It enshrines the True Martial Ancestor. During festivals or Taoist gatherings, people flock to the mountain — some to pray for blessings and safety, some to admire the mountain and water scenery, and others to enjoy the pleasure of hiking and gazing into the distance, each fulfilling their own desires. The fifth terrace is the Jade Emperor Summit. From the highest point, one can gaze across the vast lands of Chu, the charming waters of Yu, and the diverse landscapes spanning dozens of miles within the canyon. Hundreds of wildflowers grow here, filling the air with fragrance.

　　Golden Silk Grand Canyon is famous for being narrow, serene, elegant, and magical. It boasts dense rivers, lush forests, a wide variety of wild animals and plants, and well-preserved original ecology.

　　The climate here is classified as northern subtropical, with approximately 240–285 days per year having an average daily temperature above 10°C. Annual precipitation exceeds 800 mm, making it a region with ample rainfall and a moist climate. The overall climate characteristics are: abundant rainfall, ample sunshine, no severe cold in winter, no intense heat in summer, fresh air, and a mild climate. It’s described as “experiencing three seasons in one day, and the fragrance of orchids for ten miles,” making it an ideal tourist destination for leisure, vacation, and exploring nature.

　　Ticket price: Peak season: 120 | Off-season: 100 | Inquiry phone: 0914-6324666

　　Postal code: 726307 | Scenic area address: Miaotaizi Village, Jinshixia Town, Shangnan County