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Jin Gangtai National Geopark in Xinyang, Henan Province, is located at the northern foot of the Dabie Mountains, in the central and eastern part of Shangcheng County, Henan Province. It covers an area of 276 square kilometers. Located at the junction of Henan and Anhui provinces, it spans 138 square kilometers and boasts more than ten peaks exceeding 1,000 meters in height. Its main peak, Jin Gangtai, stands at 1,584 meters above sea level, making it the highest peak in the Dabie Mountains within Henan Province.
Jingangtai Canyon Rafting, located northwest of Pingdingpu, Jingangtai's main peak, flows from two high mountain gorges, Wulong Valley and Yanmenguan, stretching 6 kilometers. The waters of Jingangtai Canyon are crystal clear, and the rafting section offers dramatic undulations. The starting point is 385 meters above sea level, and the end point is 215 meters above sea level, with a vertical drop of 170 meters and an average drop of 85 meters.
During rafting, the maximum allowable stream flow is 1.5 cubic meters per second, and the minimum flow is 1 cubic meter per second. This canyon rafting experience boasts the largest water level drop in southern Henan, the most thrilling and challenging, and the most beautiful natural scenery. It's truly the best alpine canyon rafting experience in southern Henan!
With a subtropical monsoon climate, summer is the best season for rafting. In June, July and August every year, the clear and cool river water takes you through the stream. During the one-hour journey, rapids, waterfalls and whirlpools follow one after another. Visitors sometimes wade, sometimes swim, and sometimes use their hands and feet. It is full of endless fun.
The Jingangtai Canyon Rafting Trail covers a total length of 5.8 kilometers, with a total drop of 175 meters and over 30 drops exceeding one meter. The canyon stream is crystal clear, and wild giant salamanders appear and disappear in the stream, creating a breathtaking scenery. The rafting section features the highest water level difference in southern Henan, making it the most thrilling and challenging natural landscape canyon rafting experience. Nestled in the jungle, with its banks studded with unusual rocks, the route offers an immersive experience. Not only can you admire the lush green mountains and waters, the breathtaking natural scenery, and the thrilling high-altitude glass suspension bridge, but more importantly, you can experience the thrill of slicing through the waves of the high gorge.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
168 yuan/person
Saturday and Sunday 10:00-14:00
Jingangtai Canyon Rafting is a natural adventure destination in Xinyang, Henan, known for its dramatic canyon landscapes and clear river streams. It attracts adventure enthusiasts and tourists seeking outdoor water activities and eco-tourism experiences.
Located in Xinyang, Henan Province. Accessible by taxi or private car. Local buses connect from Xinyang city center, and parking is available for visitors driving themselves.
Open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best time to visit is during late spring to early autumn when the water levels are ideal for rafting and the weather is pleasant.
Rafting ticket prices range from 120–200 CNY per person depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online via official booking platforms.
Booking in advance is recommended during weekends and holidays, ideally 1–3 days prior, to secure preferred rafting slots.
3–5 hours including rafting, hiking, and enjoying scenic spots.
Guided tours are occasionally available, typically in Chinese. Private guides may be arranged for English-speaking visitors.
Start with canyon hiking trails, then enjoy rafting down the rapids, take breaks at scenic viewpoints, and end with refreshments at rest areas.
Night visits and light shows are not typical; special tours may be available during peak holiday seasons.
Weekdays are less crowded. Weekends and holidays can be busy, especially during summer. Early morning arrival is recommended.
Facilities include toilets, snack stalls, water points, rest areas, and small souvenir shops near the rafting start point.
Children and adults can participate in rafting with safety equipment. Some hiking paths may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors; assistance may be required.
Both cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are accepted at the entrance and for food or souvenirs.
Small food stalls inside the park; local restaurants in Xinyang city offer regional cuisine within a short drive.
Vegetarian options are limited; vegan and halal options are scarce and may require prior inquiry.
Several hotels and guesthouses in Xinyang city provide convenient access for overnight stays near the canyon.
Souvenir shops sell rafting-related merchandise, local snacks, and small crafts.
Taxis, ride-hailing services, or private vehicles can take visitors to Xinyang city center, nearby hotels, or other scenic areas.
