The First Drift on the Source of the Huangpu River

　　The drifting route spans 4.5 kilometers and takes approximately 60 minutes to complete, hence the name "The First Drift on the Source of the Huangpu River." Floating down the river on a raft allows you to experience the thrill of turbulent waves and enjoy the serene, otherworldly tranquility. The route features well-balanced drops, with sections of calm water alternating with exciting rapids and shoals. Along the way, the scenery on both banks is picturesque — lush forests and bamboo groves, surrounded by verdant mountains. Looking down, you’ll see crystal-clear stream water, wild ducks gliding on the surface, and fish and shrimp swimming beneath. As you move along, the landscape constantly changes: in the distance, the water and sky blend into one, while up close, cormorants can be seen fishing. Under your feet, the emerald-green aquatic plants sway with the raft, tempting you to reach out and touch them. It's truly a scenic journey where every turn reveals a new view, filled with the charm of countryside vistas. The First Drift on the Source of the Huangpu River scenic area centers around the core concept of “eco-participatory tourism,” perfectly blending sightseeing with entertainment.

　　As the first drifting spot at the source of the Huangpu River, this experience calls for courage, strategy, boldness, and wisdom. Participants must conquer five challenging sections: the first, "Touching the Water Like a Dragonfly"; the second, "Riding the Wind and Cleaving the Waves"; the third, "Courage in the Rapids"; the fourth, "Plunging Down the Waterfall"; and the fifth, "Two Dragons Playing with the Raft — Unity in Adversity." Currently, it is the peak travel season with beautiful scenery and pleasant weather. Tired of skyscrapers and bustling streets? Come to the First Drift on the Source of the Huangpu River. Let’s immerse ourselves in the harmony of nature’s landscapes and the warmth of human unity. Together, we’ll ride the rapids with enthusiasm, unveil the mysterious veil of our mother river, and explore the long history of Heluxi Village, a place known for its remarkable people and rich legends. Historical figures such as Hu Zongnan in the military and Zhu Lesan in the arts have left behind fascinating tales. Not far from the scenic area stands the towering “Crocodile Mountain.” Drifting along, you can stroll through ordinary lanes, listen to ancient stories, muse over the past, savor local farmhouse dishes, and feel completely at ease. You certainly won’t leave disappointed.

　　Rapids vary greatly in size, shape, and intensity. Some are short, sudden bursts of water, while others are half-a-mile-long continuous flows. In certain stretches, the river widens due to the presence of large, irregularly placed rocks, resulting in slow-moving water; in narrow cliff gaps, the water is forced through with tremendous force. Some channels are straight, while others twist narrowly, causing the main current to crash against the rock walls. Some have gentle slopes but aren’t necessarily influenced by upstream flow, while others feature significant drops entirely different from the upstream current, creating horizons that stretch right across the river. Drifting is a challenge of both physical strength and courage. While seeking thrills and enjoyment, always prioritize safety and learn some essential techniques.

　　During the drift, since there are many drop zones and sections with large elevation changes, avoid bringing items that can’t get wet to prevent them from falling or getting damaged. Friends who wear glasses should secure them with a rubber band beforehand. A life jacket must be worn throughout the journey to prevent capsizing. Pay attention to the arrows and signs along the route, as they help alert you to upcoming drop zones. When going through fast currents, hold onto the inner grip straps of the raft. Those sitting in the back should lean slightly backward, while pairs should keep the raft balanced and parallel to the river flow. If the raft gets stuck, do not stand up abruptly. Instead, stabilize the raft and find a secure spot before standing.