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There are towering mountains on both sides of the Gu Miao River. Going into the depths of the scenic area along the escalator and wooden plank road built around the mountainside, the scenery along the way is unique, including the Baishui River, "Lion Welcoming the Emperor", "Chiyou Patrolling the Border", "Heavenly Soldiers and Generals", "Ten Thousand Volumes of Heavenly Books" and the Qi Ti Yan Waterfall, which combines danger and beauty. Legend has it that these attractions were all transformed from the god of war Chiyou, his subordinates and his daughter.
The average annual temperature here is 11.4 degrees Celsius, and the average temperature in summer does not exceed 30 degrees Celsius. It is known as a "natural air conditioner" and a "big oxygen bar" and is a Feng Shui treasure land for summer vacation.
1. With an excellent natural environment, the Gumiao River is known as a "natural air conditioner" and a "large oxygen bar". It is called the Pearl of the Mountains and provides people with a place for leisure, recuperation and tourism to escape the summer heat.
Second, the Gumiao River Scenic Area boasts numerous and densely distributed tourist attractions, including the Chiyou Grand Canyon, the Chongshan Ten Thousand Mu Ecological Forest, the Big and Small Dragon Cave Waterfalls, the Laozhai Folk Village, the Paiwu Stone Railings, the Paiwu Reservoir, Jianyan Wenbi Peak, and the Minle Lake and Spring. The Chiyou Grand Canyon, in particular, boasts high mountains, steep slopes, deep valleys, and dense forests, creating a majestic, magnificent, and mystical landscape, both physically and spiritually beautiful.
3. Rich and diverse cultural landscapes. The ancient Miao River boasts numerous cultural attractions and historical relics for visitors to enjoy, including ancient tombs from the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period; the ruins of the ancient Tongla Bridge, the earliest bridge in western Hunan; the Tea Cave, a border town described by Shen Congwen; the site of the Qianlong and Jiaqing Miao uprising at Huangguazhai in Yayou; the former site of the Second Grade of the National No. 8 Middle School, where Zhu Rongji and others studied; Chongshan Park; the Chaoshui Cliff Tombs in Minle; and the ruins of the Chongshan Fortress in Jiwei.
Fourth, romantic ethnic culture. Huayuan County has a total population of 265,000, of which the Miao ethnic group accounts for approximately 80%. Huayuan County is a typical Miao-populated county, where they have preserved a rich tradition of customs and traditions with a strong ethnic character. These include over 70 festivals, such as the "March 3rd," "April 8th," the "Dragon Boat Festival," and the "Autumn Festival." Miao songs and dances are dreamlike, their costumes and handicrafts are exquisite, and their culinary culture is fragrant and breathtaking.
108 yuan/person
Gu Miao River is a scenic river in Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Hunan. It is known for its natural beauty, ethnic minority culture, and traditional villages along the river, representing the lifestyle and heritage of the Tujia and Miao people.
The river is located in Xiangxi Prefecture, Hunan. The nearest city is Jishou. Visitors can take a bus or taxi from Jishou to the river. Within the area, walking along scenic trails is common for exploration.
Some sections may have small entrance fees or boat ride charges, typically ¥50–¥100. Tickets can usually be bought on-site; online booking may be available via local tourism websites or travel platforms.
Booking is recommended for boat rides or peak travel periods, ideally 2–3 days in advance.
Half-day to a full day is sufficient to explore the river, take a boat ride, and visit nearby villages.
Guided tours may be available locally in Chinese. Audio guides are generally not common, but private guides can offer English explanations upon request.
Start with a boat ride on the main stretch of Gu Miao River, then walk along riverside trails, stopping at nearby Tujia and Miao villages, and finish with a scenic overlook for panoramic photography.
Night visits are generally not common due to limited lighting. Special cultural performances may be arranged in nearby villages during festivals.
It is less crowded compared to major tourist spots. Weekdays and non-holiday seasons are the quietest times to visit.
Basic facilities are available near village areas and main viewpoints, including toilets, small food stalls, and resting areas. Shops are limited.
Some areas have uneven trails and steps, making them less accessible for people with mobility issues. Elderly and children can enjoy the boat rides and main viewpoints.
Cash is recommended, though mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay may be accepted in some village shops and boat services.
Small local restaurants and ethnic minority eateries near villages offer Hunan cuisine and river fish dishes.
Vegetarian options may be available in local eateries. Halal options are limited but may exist in nearby towns with Muslim communities.
Guesthouses, boutique inns, and small hotels are available in Jishou and nearby towns, offering convenient access to Gu Miao River.
Souvenirs include local handicrafts, embroidered textiles, silver ornaments, and ethnic jewelry from Tujia and Miao communities.
Buses, taxis, and private car hires are available to travel to nearby towns or attractions in Xiangxi Prefecture. Jishou railway station connects to other parts of Hunan and China.
