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Visitors to Qingtian River can enjoy scenic boat rides along the river, explore the picturesque riverbanks, and hike through nearby nature trails. It's also a great spot for photography, picnics, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Qingtian River, located in Bo'ai County, Jiaozuo City, Henan Province, is a World Geopark and a National 5A- level Tourist Attraction. It comprises seven major tourist areas—Tianjing Pass, Daquan Lake, Sangu Spring, Guanyin Gorge, Foer Gorge, Jinjialing, and Yueshan Temple—and 308 scenic spots.
The " mountains " of Qingtian River embrace both the north and the south, with both the majestic and dangerous mountains and rivers of the north and the gentle and beautiful rivers and mountains of the south; the " water " of Qingtian River comes from the sky, where there is a spring every three steps and a waterfall every five steps, green mountains surround the clear water, and green trees cover the ancient temple.
Qingtian River is blessed with beautiful natural scenery, and the ancient Dandao Guanyin Temple is a beautiful and efficacious place. Whether you worship at the Guanyin Holy Spirit Terrace, explore the Buddha's inner world in Fo'er Gorge, or seek enlightenment through the deep bamboo forests of Yueshan Temple, you can purify your soul, savor the true meaning of life, and experience a unique artistic conception.
The forest here is boundless, the vegetation is dense, and the four seasons are picturesque, especially in autumn when the mountains are covered with red leaves, which is the best in the Central Plains.
Here you'll find the world's only natural Great Wall and the world-famous spectacle of the Stone Chicken laying eggs; Sangu Spring, known as " China's First Spring ," and the 7.5- kilometer-long Daquan Lake formed by its waters; a rare natural giant Buddha, the only one with inscriptions on its body dating back 70 million years; China's earliest male bronze statue of Guanyin; Northern Wei cliff carvings and ancient alchemy paths dating back 1,500 years; Yueshan Temple, a thousand-year-old temple on par with Shaolin Temple and visited three times by Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty; and Jinjialing, China's largest red leaf forest, covering 100,000 mu (approximately 1,000 acres), a natural oxygen bar and forest paradise with drifting clouds and pleasant air.
Recommended play time: more than 3 hours
60 yuan/person
8:30-17:00
Qingtian River is renowned for its scenic beauty and serene environment. The river has been an important water source for the region, providing irrigation and contributing to the local agriculture. It is also known for its cultural significance, with several historical sites along the riverbanks.
Qingtian River is located in Jiaozuo, Henan Province. The most convenient way to reach the river is by taxi or private car. Public buses may also be available, though they may require transfers. Walking is possible if you're staying close to the river, but it’s best to take a taxi for easier access.
The river area is open year-round. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant. Early mornings or late afternoons are also ideal for avoiding crowds and capturing the best light for photography.
There is no entrance fee for accessing Qingtian River itself. However, some boat rides or guided tours may have fees. Tickets for these activities can usually be bought on-site or through local tour agencies, and some services may offer online booking.
Booking in advance is not typically necessary for general visits, but it is recommended if you wish to take a boat tour or participate in a guided experience, especially during peak seasons. A couple of days’ notice should suffice.
A visit to Qingtian River can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on whether you want to explore the riverbanks, take a boat ride, and enjoy the nearby trails. For a more leisurely visit, plan on spending half a day.
The must-see highlights include the calm waters of the river, the scenic boat rides, and the surrounding natural landscapes. Visitors should also explore the nearby walking paths that offer fantastic views of the river and the lush environment.
Guided tours are available, primarily in Chinese. Some operators may offer tours in English, but it's recommended to check in advance. Audio guides may also be available in Chinese.
The best viewpoints are along the riverbanks, especially where the water flows calmly through the landscape. Scenic boat rides also provide great opportunities for photography, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is perfect.
Start your visit with a scenic boat ride along the river, followed by a walk along the riverbanks to enjoy the natural beauty. If time permits, take a hike along nearby trails for a more immersive experience in the area.
Night visits and light shows are not a regular feature at Qingtian River. However, the tranquil evening atmosphere can still be enjoyed during a visit, and some tour operators may offer evening boat rides upon request.
Qingtian River can get crowded during weekends and holidays. For a quieter experience, it's best to visit on weekdays, especially in the mornings or later in the afternoon.
Facilities near the river include public toilets, food stands, and small rest areas. There are also shops selling local souvenirs and snacks. However, more extensive dining and shopping options are available in nearby Jiaozuo city.
Qingtian River is fairly accessible, with well-maintained paths along the riverbanks. However, the boat rides and hiking trails may not be suitable for visitors with mobility challenges. It’s best to check with local providers for specific accessibility features.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly accepted. Credit cards may also be used in some areas, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or for visiting local vendors.
There are small local restaurants and cafes near the river serving traditional Chinese dishes. For a wider selection, visitors can head to Jiaozuo city center, where there are more dining options available.
Vegetarian options are available at some local eateries. Vegan and halal options may be harder to find but can be found in larger cities like Jiaozuo.
There are several guesthouses and budget hotels near Qingtian River, offering convenient access. For more luxurious accommodations, visitors can stay in Jiaozuo city, which has a range of hotels and resorts.
Nearby attractions include the Yuntai Mountain Scenic Area and the Jiaozuo Water Park. These sites can easily be combined into a day trip with Qingtian River.
There are souvenir shops near the river selling local handicrafts, small trinkets, and items related to the river's cultural significance. Popular souvenirs include local tea, handicrafts, and artworks.
Taxis and private cars are the most convenient transportation options to continue your journey after visiting Qingtian River. Public transportation is available but may require transfers and take longer.
