Hubei's Stunning Water Highway, Breathing Fresh Air in the Mountains

A perfect weekend getaway for two days and one night led me to the picturesque Xingshan County in Yichang, where I stayed immersed in an ink-wash painting-like scenery while breathing fresh air. The local farmhouse cuisine was also incredibly delicious.

🌟 Itinerary
Day 1: Arrived at the hotel at noon 👉 The famous Water Ancient Zhaolu Highway is right at the foot of the hotel.
Day 2: Zhaojun Village 👉 Chaotianhou Drifting

🌟 Must-Visit Attractions
1⃣ China's Most Beautiful Water Highway
Guzhao Highway (Navigation: Gufu Town, Xingshan County)
Highlights: This 10.9-kilometer "water dragon" has 4.4 kilometers built over the Xiangxi River! Surrounded by emerald waters and lush mountains, it looks like a jade ribbon from above, and driving through it feels like gliding through a painting.
Tips: The best photo spot is at the middle section of the Xiangxi River Bridge—a drone shot is highly recommended!

2⃣ Zhaojun Village
Zhaojun Town, Xingshan County
Highlights: The birthplace of Wang Zhaojun! This ancient Han Dynasty village, paired with the stunning Xiangxi River, makes every shot a masterpiece of ancient charm.
Must-Do:
- Hanfu Experience: Dress in traditional Han attire and capture a lifetime portrait in this historic village.
- Purple Bamboo Garden: Legend says it was transformed by a rainbow fairy—the bamboo forest's light and shadows are breathtaking.
(Unfortunately, I ran out of time and missed it.)

3⃣ Chaotianhou Drifting
Gaolan Town, Xingshan County
Highlights: A thrilling 6.5-kilometer route with a 148-meter drop! Guaranteed screams and soaking wet fun—a must-try in summer.
Tips: Bring a change of clothes! Lockers are available at the site.
(It wasn’t open during my visit but should open by mid-to-late June.)

4⃣️ Gaolan Grand Waterfall
Located at the endpoint of Chaotianhou Drifting, this photogenic spot is free to visit.

🌟 Accommodation Recommendation:
Houshan Countryside Hotel, nestled halfway up the mountain with a direct view of Guzhao Highway.

🌟 Food Guide:
Xingshan’s Three Treasures:
- Crispy Pork: Crunchy outside, tender inside—perfect with chili powder!
- Liangfen (Jelly Noodles): Made with mountain spring water, silky and refreshing!
- Qingjiang Fish: Wild-caught from Xiangxi River—unbelievably fresh!

🌟 Transportation Guide
🚗 Drive: ~4.5 hours from Wuhan to the hotel (direct highway).
🚄 High-Speed Rail: Take a train from Wuhan to Xingshan Station, then a short taxi ride to the hotel/attractions.
🚌 Bus: From Yichang Bus Station, take Route 808 directly to Chaotianhou Scenic Area.