Shiba Shui Primitive Ecological Scenic Area in Hezhou, Guangxi

　　The Shiba Shui Primitive Ecological Scenic Area is situated in the northern part of Babu District, Hezhou City, Guangxi, approximately a 25-kilometer drive from downtown Hezhou. It is one of the most renowned attractions in Hezhou, often paired with a two-day trip that includes the Huangyao Ancient Town. The scenic area boasts stunning natural scenery, most notably its numerous waterfalls with significant height and scale, making it an ideal destination for waterfall enthusiasts. Visitors can hike and enjoy mountain views, play in the lakes, savor natural delicacies, and engage in a variety of activities.

　　The area of the Shiba Shui Scenic Area is not large, and visitors can explore on foot in about two hours. While there is a small hill to climb within the scenic area, well-developed boardwalks are available along the way, and the hill is not high, so the physical demand is relatively low—making it suitable for visitors with elderly people or children. Geographically, the scenic area is mainly divided into two sections: the mountainous waterfall area and the lake area at the base of the mountain.

　　The mountainous waterfall area is the core highlight of the scenic spot, and hiking up to view the waterfalls is the main activity for most visitors. The hiking trail forms roughly a loop, featuring around a dozen waterfalls along the way. The water is fast-flowing and crystal clear, with all the falls being quite picturesque. Among them, the most prominent ones are the Yellow Silk Waterfall, Dragon Waterfall, Fairy Waterfall, and Great Buddha Waterfall, which are especially worth visiting. Each waterfall has a unique form—some feature wide cascades, while others are hidden streams within cliff walls. The Great Buddha Waterfall, with its multiple tiers and grand scale, is the most iconic sight in the area.

　　The lake area at the base of the mountain refers to the vicinity of Xiangsi Lake near the entrance of the scenic area. Originally a natural lake, the scenic area has developed the area with some antique-style architecture, creating a garden-like lakeside landscape. On one side of the lake, there is also a swimming and water play zone where visitors can swim or try water activities such as bamboo rafting and banana boat rides—making it a great spot for summer fun. Every weekend during July and August, the scenic area hosts a lively Summer Coolness Festival featuring various folk performances and games, attracting many visitors to enjoy the water. If you visit during this time, you can join in the fun and take part in the water activities.

　　From May to October each year, the scenic area also offers forest slide rafting activities, and the Shiba Shui rafting experience is quite famous in the surrounding region. The rafting course is approximately 2 kilometers long and takes about 50 minutes. Along the way, you can peacefully enjoy the surrounding forest scenery, as well as experience thrilling sharp turns in certain sections—making for a highly entertaining ride. The price of rafting varies each year; in 2014, it was around 128 RMB, and free hot showers and ginger sugar water are provided.

The Shiba Shui Primitive Ecological Scenic Area in Hezhou, Guangxi isAAAAa