Huayudong National Forest Park

Introducing Huayudong National Forest Park

Huayudong National Forest Park, located near Nanxi Town in Hekou County, stretches approximately 85 kilometers from east to west and 7.2 kilometers from north to south, covering an area of ​​1,576 hectares. Huayudong Forest Park is primarily a forest park, with seasonal rainforest and limestone monsoon forest as the primary vegetation types. Approved by the Ministry of Forestry in November 1992, it was officially incorporated into the Yunnan Daweishan National Nature Reserve in June 2001, following its establishment.

The Hekou Huayudong Forest Park covers an area of ​​47,145 mu (approximately 16,000 acres), encompassing the entire Machang Tropical Rainforest Nature Reserve, a county-owned area. The approximately 15,000 mu (approximately 16,000 acres) surrounding the Huayudong entrance constitutes the core nature reserve. The Hekou Huayudong Forest Park planning area is adjacent to the Daweishan Nature Reserve.

Many areas of the Huayudong tropical rainforest remain pristine. The forest boasts dense, towering trees, including rare species like dipterocarp and terminalia, reaching over 40 meters in height, making it a highly valuable resource for development. Within the forest, dense stands of betel nut trees grow, and near the foot of the mountain, clusters of pristine ferns, a rare and ancient plant designated as a special protected species by the state, grow in clusters.

Climate and best time to travel

In the subtropical monsoon climate zone, the four seasons are like spring, with plenty of sunshine, no severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer, making it suitable for travel all year round.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The vast expanse of Huayudong's primeval forest boasts a diverse intergrowth of trees of varying ages, resulting in a varied canopy and a rich, vibrant forest landscape. Numerous small streams, centered around the Nanxi River, flow year-round, with mountain springs providing a vibrant, sometimes gurgling, sometimes meandering, natural wonders.

The waterfall in front of Huayu Cave cascades down three times, tumbling among lush trees, unusual rocks and reefs, forming a beautiful waterfall landscape resembling a water curtain cave, with a cave within a cave. The cave landscape, waterscape, vegetation landscape and plant ecological environment of Huayu Cave complement each other and are of great development value.

It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Huayudong National Forest Park

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Huayudong National Forest Park is known for its rich biodiversity and ecological significance. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal species, many of which are protected. It also serves as a vital water source for the surrounding area and plays a key role in conservation efforts for the local ecosystem.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Huayudong National Forest Park is located in the Red River region of Yunnan Province, China. The park is accessible by car or taxi from the nearby city of Gejiu. It is recommended to take a taxi or rent a car, as public transportation to the park may not be frequent or convenient.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The park is open year-round, with no specific opening hours. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is cooler and the natural surroundings are at their most vibrant. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying the park's tranquility.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Huayudong National Forest Park is typically around ¥30-50. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local travel platforms. It's advisable to check in advance for any discounts or special offers.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For general visits, booking tickets in advance is not necessary. However, if you're visiting during peak tourist seasons or planning a guided tour, it’s advisable to book tickets at least a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Depending on your interests, you can explore the park in 3-5 hours. If you plan to hike or participate in more extensive wildlife watching, a full day would be ideal to fully appreciate the park’s beauty.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights of the park include the serene river, waterfalls, and the lush forest trails. The southern part of the park, where the river winds through the landscape, offers breathtaking views and is particularly scenic for photography.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, and some tours may include English-speaking guides, although Mandarin is more common. Audio guides may also be available in Mandarin, and it's a good idea to check in advance if you're looking for tours in other languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are along the riverbanks, near the waterfalls, and from higher trails that offer panoramic views of the entire park. Early mornings provide beautiful lighting for landscape photography, particularly around the water features.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The recommended route is to start with a short hike along the river to capture the landscape, then move towards the waterfall areas for photography. If you have more time, you can explore the forest trails or take a longer route through the park's more remote sections.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no night visits or light shows available at Huayudong National Forest Park. The park is primarily a daytime attraction, and it’s best enjoyed in natural daylight when the wildlife is most active.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The park is generally not overcrowded, except during holidays or weekends. Weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, are the least crowded times to visit.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The park has basic facilities, including toilets, rest areas, and a few small shops selling snacks and drinks. There are no large restaurants inside the park, so it's advisable to bring your own water and food, especially for longer visits.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The park has some accessible areas, but many of the trails may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain. Children can enjoy easier trails, but parents should keep an eye on them when near the river or waterfalls.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted, but some smaller shops may also accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay. It’s advisable to carry cash for minor purchases, though larger establishments may accept credit cards.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no large restaurants or cafes inside the park. However, you can find local eateries and cafes in the nearby town of Gejiu, where you can enjoy Yunnan-style dishes like rice noodles and steam-baked bread.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in local eateries around Gejiu, where you can find rice and vegetable-based dishes. Halal food is more limited but can be found in some areas catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a number of hotels and guesthouses in Gejiu, which is about 30-40 minutes away by car from the park. Options range from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. For a more immersive experience, consider staying in a rural homestay near the park.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Red River Valley, the scenic town of Gejiu, and other natural parks in Yunnan. You can easily combine a visit to Huayudong National Forest Park with trips to these locations.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the park, where you can find traditional Yunnan handicrafts, such as handwoven textiles, local tea, and wooden carvings.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the park, you can continue your trip by car or taxi to nearby towns or attractions. Gejiu is a good base for exploring the region, and there are buses and taxis available for onward travel.