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Visit the Nuoshui River Scenic Area to enjoy the stunning natural beauty and serene river views. Popular activities include boat rides along the river, hiking along scenic trails, and exploring the lush surroundings. The area is also great for photography, with opportunities to capture the beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
Located in the northern part of Tongjiang County, Sichuan Province, close to Hanzhong, Shaanxi Province, the scenic area is protected by the "Key to Qinchuan" to the east and connected to the "Jianmen Shu Road" to the west. Within the area, beautiful waters flow, unique springs abound, precipitous peaks stand tall, and strange rocks cluster. Passes, canyons, waterfalls, caves, and hidden rivers abound. Its vast underground cave complex is truly breathtaking, earning it the reputation of "Nuoshui Dongtian."
There are more than 300 scenic spots in the scenic area, including 128 karst caves, more than 300 dangerous rapids and blue pools of different styles, more than 100 waterfalls, undercurrents, fountains and water curtains, and about 75 strange peaks and cliffs, beautiful gorges and valleys, and dangerous roads and majestic passes.
Among them, the most famous Zhongfeng Cave is a colorful and varied stalactite cave. It is currently the largest cave developed for tourism in China and is recognized as the "No. 1 Cave in the World". The Zhongfeng Cave rafting is known as the "No. 1 Rafting in Asia".
Subtropical continental monsoon climate, best for travel in summer.
1-3 hours
Zhongfeng Cave: 100 yuan/person
Lion Cave: 60 yuan/person
Longhu Cave: 60 yuan/person
Loufang Cave: 60 yuan/person
Nuoshui Cave Rafting: 80 yuan/person
Jintong Mountain: 20 yuan/person
8:00-18:00
The Nuoshui River Scenic Area is known for its picturesque landscapes and ecological importance. The river and surrounding area have been preserved for their natural beauty and are a popular destination for eco-tourism, attracting visitors interested in outdoor activities and exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
The Nuoshui River Scenic Area is located in Bazhong, Sichuan. You can reach it by taking a taxi from the city center or by private car. Public buses are also available, though they may require a transfer depending on your location.
The scenic area is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn months, when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Weekdays tend to be less crowded, making it ideal for a peaceful visit.
The entrance fee is typically around 50-80 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and there are currently no online ticketing options available for the scenic area.
No, tickets are not required to be booked in advance. You can purchase them directly at the entrance when you arrive. However, during peak seasons, it may be a good idea to arrive early to avoid queues.
To fully explore the Nuoshui River Scenic Area, allow about 3-4 hours. This will give you enough time to enjoy a boat ride, hike along some of the trails, and take in the scenic views.
The river itself is the main attraction, offering beautiful views and boat rides. Other highlights include the surrounding forest trails, scenic viewpoints, and the wildlife along the riverbanks.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are not typically offered, so it is recommended to join a guided tour if you want more information about the area’s history and ecology.
The best photography spots are along the river, particularly from the boat ride or at higher viewpoints on the trails. The lush greenery and river reflections provide fantastic opportunities for scenic photography.
Start with a boat ride along the river, then hike along the scenic trails to reach the viewpoints. Finish your visit by relaxing at one of the riverfront spots to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
Night visits and light shows are not available. The area closes at 6:00 PM, and it is recommended to visit during daylight hours to fully enjoy the natural surroundings.
The Nuoshui River Scenic Area can get crowded on weekends and during holidays. For a quieter experience, it is best to visit on weekdays, particularly in the morning when it opens.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. However, there are limited food and water options within the scenic area, so it is recommended to bring your own refreshments or plan to visit nearby restaurants.
The scenic area is mostly accessible to elderly visitors and children, though some of the trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It’s advisable to check specific trail conditions before your visit if accessibility is a concern.
Cash is widely accepted, though mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are also available for purchases within the area. Credit cards are not commonly accepted.
There are a few local restaurants near the entrance of the scenic area that serve Sichuan cuisine, including noodles, dumplings, and local specialties. It’s a good idea to try some regional dishes after your visit.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, but vegan and halal food may be limited. It’s recommended to check menus or ask the staff about specific dietary needs.
There are several guesthouses and small hotels in Bazhong that are within a short drive of the Nuoshui River Scenic Area. For more luxurious options, consider staying in Bazhong city center.
Nearby attractions include the Baoxing Ancient Town and several temples and nature reserves. These can be combined for a full day of exploration in the region.
Souvenir shops are available near the entrance, offering traditional handicrafts, local snacks, and natural products. Common souvenirs include handmade pottery and woven goods from the area.
After visiting the Nuoshui River Scenic Area, the best transportation options are taxis or private cars. Public buses are available but may not be as frequent or convenient for reaching other tourist spots.
