Mountain Traveler: Salt Gang Shibadu | Walk the thousand-year-old Salt Gang Ancient Road, surrounded by green mountains and beautiful waters

Day 1 Hangzhou → Salt Gang Shibadu → Hangzhou

07:00

Gather at Huanglong Seafood Stall and sign in.

07:30

We set off on time, interacted with the team leader, introduced ourselves, and laughed all the way!

10:30

We arrived at Qingzhai Village, the starting point for the hike. Everyone disembarked and warmed up under the guidance of our team leader before setting off. The stone-paved, smooth and easy trail was shaded by trees. The mountain stream gurgled beneath, its destination unknown. From afar, the peak of Shangchen Mountain, towering and steep, resembled an Eastern Fuji. Occasionally, small lizards could be spotted in the forest, and those lucky enough might even spot a blue-tailed lizard!

13:00

Arriving at the Yanbang camping base, there were aunties selling tea eggs, mineral water, etc. from time to time. The climb ended here. We rested here and then went down the mountain, passing through the Jinglushan Village to Lijiaxi Village, which is also the starting point of Juxi Shibadu. We rested in the pavilion and had lunch.

1:30 PM

Then we set off on our journey across the ferry crossings and wading through the stream. Green mountains and gurgling streams, each crossing has a unique name and is different from the others. The children played in the water, their laughter was endless, and it was a refreshing summer day. Take photos to capture these joyful moments. When the stream is high, wet shoes are essential, so remember to bring spare shoes!

4:00 PM

At the end of the trip we gathered and got on the bus.

7:00 PM

Returning to Hangzhou, everyone was reluctant to leave and kissed goodbye with tears in their eyes.

Driving time: about 3 hours one way

Hiking: The whole journey is about 12 kilometers, with 6 kilometers of ancient trails as the main route, a total climb of 200 meters, and 6 kilometers of waterways. You can cool off and play in the water at Shibadu, which is very suitable for summer travel.

Note: The local water flow is greatly affected by the weather, and the actual water volume is based on the day. If the water volume is high, your shoes may get wet at the ferry, so it is recommended to bring a pair of sandals or wear river trekking shoes

The Ancient Salt Road was a route used by ancient salt smugglers. Xinchang borders the salt-producing Ninghai region to the east. To transport their contraband from Ninghai, these smugglers chose a narrow path through the deep mountains. Because this path was less likely to be intercepted by soldiers, more and more smugglers used it, and it became a convenient passage for mountain dwellers to enter and exit the mountains. Eventually, individuals contributed money and effort to pave the road with stones and build resting pavilions. Gradually, this path became known as the Ancient Salt Road. The main trunk of the ancient road stretches approximately 20 kilometers. Xinchang is located in the hilly region of eastern Zhejiang, where the remnants of the Tiantai, Siming, and Kuaiji Mountains extend throughout the territory. The Ancient Salt Road winds through these towering peaks, remaining remarkably well-preserved to this day. The scenery along the way is breathtaking, with lush greenery and clear waters.