
The Oriental No. 1 Rafting Trail is located in Houxi, Yidu Town, Fuqing , approximately 58 kilometers from Fuzhou. The rafting route is 6 kilometers long and takes 2.5 hours. Starting from the starting point, it passes through Longtan, Heshangtan, Jiangmutan, Guiyantan, and Shuihuatan, finally reaching Guanyintan on the border with Yongtai County. Along the way, the trail passes over 50 bends, 14 cascading rapids, 19 dangerous shoals, and 8 buffer zones.
Drifting down the river, you'll experience turbulent rapids and sometimes gentle currents. Starting from the pier, you'll pass Longtan, resembling a swirling sea dragon; the turbulent and undulating Heshangtan; the distant Turtle Rock Tan; the gently drifting Shuimangtan; and finally, the 9- meter-deep Guanyintan.
The rafting along the way is sometimes thrilling and sometimes leisurely and casual. You can experience the passion and heroism of life with your family, and you can also leisurely appreciate the lush forests, bamboos, and colorful flowers on both sides of the river.
Summer is the best time for rafting
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
158 yuan/person
May 1st - October 7th : Ticket sales 9 :00-14:00 , rafting entry 12:00-14:00
Temporarily closed from October 8th to April 30th of the following year
Oriental No.1 Drift is a popular water sport destination in Fujian, offering a unique rafting experience. It is part of the region's growing tourism sector, capitalizing on the natural river landscapes and offering adventure-seekers a thrilling activity. The area's natural beauty and proximity to scenic mountain ranges make it a perfect location for outdoor activities.
Oriental No.1 Drift is located in Fuzhou, Fujian Province. The most common way to get there is by taxi or private car, though public buses may also be available from Fuzhou city center. Walking is not advisable due to the location's distance from the main urban areas.
The attraction is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat and crowds. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends.
The entrance fee for rafting varies depending on the season and the type of rafting experience. Generally, it ranges from ¥150-¥300. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through online platforms that offer advance booking for popular tourist activities in the area.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons (holidays or weekends), to secure your spot. Booking at least a week in advance is ideal.
To fully enjoy the rafting experience, plan for about 2-3 hours, including time spent navigating the river and taking short breaks. Additional time may be needed for relaxing and enjoying the scenic area after the activity.
Guided tours are available for the rafting experience, typically offered in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, though it’s best to confirm in advance.
The best photo opportunities are along the riverbank where you can capture the rapids and surrounding nature. Additionally, photos from the raft itself provide a unique perspective of the river and the lush hillsides.
Begin by briefing with the guide about safety and rafting techniques. Then, take the raft down the river, navigating through different rapid sections. Afterward, take a relaxing break at designated spots and enjoy the scenic views of the riverbanks.
Night visits are not available as the activity primarily takes place during the daytime. However, special tours during festive seasons or holiday periods may be organized, including rafting events with unique themes.
The attraction can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid large crowds, visit during weekdays, especially in the morning hours when fewer people are around.
Basic facilities such as toilets, water stations, and resting areas are available near the rafting launch and return points. Some food vendors may be available nearby for snacks and light meals, but it is advisable to bring your own water and snacks.
Due to the nature of the activity (white-water rafting), it may not be suitable for elderly visitors or those with limited mobility. Children must be of an appropriate age and size to participate safely. There are no special provisions for disabled visitors on the rafting course itself.
Both cash and mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted. Credit card payment might be available in larger establishments around the area, but cash or mobile payment is recommended for convenience.
There are a few local eateries and snack stalls near the rafting site offering Fujianese cuisine and refreshments. If you're looking for more extensive dining options, Fuzhou city center has a variety of restaurants to explore.
Vegetarian options are available in some local restaurants, particularly those serving traditional Chinese dishes. Halal food options might be more limited in this area, but can be found in Fuzhou's larger Muslim-friendly establishments.
There are several hotels in the Fuzhou area, ranging from budget to luxury. Some are located near the rafting site, offering convenient access, while others are in the city center with more diverse amenities.
Souvenir shops in the area offer local handicrafts, traditional Fujian tea, and items related to the rafting experience, such as branded apparel or water gear.
After visiting Oriental No.1 Drift, taxis and buses are available to take you to other parts of Fuzhou or nearby attractions. You can also rent a car if you wish to explore at your own pace.