Jiuquxi Bamboo Rafting

Hey guys! I’ve discovered a hidden gem that’s absolutely breathtaking—Wuyi Mountain in the spring rain! Mist-shrouded peaks, misty green forests, strange peaks and rocks paired with winding streams, no wonder Li Shangyin praised it as “thousands of peaks rising like jade cliffs.” It’s also a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage site, recommended by National Geographic~ This 2-day itinerary will take you on an immersive experience! 🚗 Transportation Guide - High-speed rail: Wuyishan North Station / Nanping Station; - Airplane: Wuyishan Airport; - Once there, taking a taxi or the scenic area shuttle bus is very convenient~ 🗓️ 2-Day Itinerary (Relaxed tour of the highlights) - Day 1: From high-speed rail station/airport → Sangu Resort Area, stroll through Sangu Old Street (try local snacks, soak in the lively atmosphere); - Day 2: Sangu → Baiyun Zen Temple → Nine-Bend Stream bamboo raft drifting → return trip~ 🌟 Must-visit Attractions (each one is legendary) 1. Baiyun Zen Temple - The ancient moss-covered path stretches endlessly, every photo looks like a “scene from a historical film”; - It’s also a perfect spot to watch the sunrise over the sea of clouds! Early morning mist flows up from the valley, the temple appears faintly in the clouds, like a fairyland descending to earth~ 2. Nine-Bend Stream Bamboo Rafting - The bamboo raft experience here is just as good as in Guilin! Mountains embrace the water as it twists and turns, the scene perfectly captures Li Bai’s poetic imagery of “a light boat passing through thousands of mountains”; - The raftman shares stories and legends along the way, drifting while listening to tales, super immersive~ 3. Tianyou Peak - True to its name! When the sea of clouds arrives, standing on the peak feels like “roaming in the sky,” with mountains, clouds, and streams all in view, so spectacular it leaves you speechless~ 💡 Tips - Visiting on a spring rainy day enhances the “fairyland feeling,” but remember to bring a raincoat/umbrella; - It’s recommended to book bamboo rafting in advance, choose early morning or evening for the best light and shadow effects; - Wear light-colored or traditional-style clothes for photos to perfectly match the landscape~ The beauty of Wuyi Mountain lies in the Zen spirit within the mist and the poetry on the bamboo rafts—you’ll never forget it after one visit~

Taking the evening high-speed train from Xiamen, my little cousin and I headed south, arriving late at night at the Sangudujia area in Wuyishan. We stayed at the Jinjiang Metropolo Hotel, which was clean and comfortable. Through the window, we could faintly see distant mountains, and the night breeze carried a refreshing scent of tea leaves and earth. That night, we went to bed early, silently anticipating the encounter with nature the next morning. Waking up early, sunlight filtered through the mist and into the curtains. The temperature was slightly cool, perfect for venturing into the mountains. Our first stop was the highlight of the trip: bamboo rafting on the Nine-Bend Stream. We boarded a traditional bamboo raft, guided by an elderly boatman who paddled while softly introducing the scenery: "Nine bends and eighteen turns—this is the soul of Wuyishan." As the bamboo raft gently glided into the stream, the world instantly quieted down. The water was so clear it resembled glass, reflecting the red sandstone cliffs and lush mountain shadows on both sides. As we passed the first bend, the mist had not yet fully dispersed. The mountains were faintly visible, and the stream seemed to be shrouded in smoke. At that moment, I understood the meaning of "traveling within a painting." The stream twisted along the mountain contours, and the boatman pointed out rock formations resembling "Eagle Beak Rock" and "Jade Maiden Peak." We said nothing, simply watching quietly, listening to the sound of water cutting through the air. Our hearts, like the stream, gradually became clear and calm. After the rafting, we took a car to White Cloud Zen Temple halfway up the mountain. Along the way, clouds began to gather, the sun disappeared behind the mountains, and Wuyishan seemed gently wrapped in mist. Walking up the stone steps to the temple, we saw its roof submerged in a sea of clouds from afar, as if the entire temple was floating in the heavens. White Cloud Zen Temple was not as grand and ornate as imagined; instead, it was understated and ancient, quiet like an elderly sage in deep thought. Following the pilgrims, we slowly ascended to the observation deck beside the temple, known as the legendary Cloud Sea Viewing Point. Standing above the clouds, distant mountains emerged like islands in a sea of mist. As the wind stirred the clouds, time seemed to pause. After leaving White Cloud Zen Temple, we chose a less-traveled path down the mountain. This hidden trail, known locally and humorously nicknamed "Internet-famous Moss Path," was a secret gem. Thick moss covered both sides of the stone steps, and the moist air made the ground glisten, as if stepping into a fairytale forest. Birdsong echoed through the woods, and sunlight filtered through the trees, casting beams onto the moss-covered stones. Time felt elongated. We said little along the way, listening only to the sound of our footsteps on the mossy ground—a sound more comforting than any words. Emerging from the forest, the afternoon sun was slowly setting. Looking back, the mountain, the stream, the clouds, and the mossy path seemed to still echo our footsteps and breaths. Returning to the hotel, we packed our bags, preparing to head to Fuzhou. A thought lingered in my mind: "The mountain speaks no words, yet it always understands."

Nestled among the green mountains and clear waters of Fujian lies a mesmerizing destination—Nine Bend Stream. Meandering through the peaks of Wuyishan, a bamboo raft ride downstream feels like stepping into a slowly unfolding landscape painting. This is the Nine Bend Stream Bamboo Rafting experience, a magical dialogue between humans and nature. The rafting journey spans approximately 9 kilometers, starting from the shallows near Zhangyan and ending at Xingcun Town at the foot of Qiyun Peak, taking about 90 minutes in total. As you board the rustic bamboo raft and drift gently with the current, the scenery along both banks unfolds like a poetic masterpiece. From the first to the ninth bend, each section boasts unique vistas: the lifelike Upper Water Lion Rock and Lower Water Turtle Rock, the breathtaking beauty of the sixth bend, the expansive views of the fifth bend, and the deep, steep gorge of the second bend. Beyond the stunning views, you’ll also hear the boatmen share ancient legends, such as the mystery of the hanging coffins, allowing you to appreciate not only the natural splendor but also the rich historical and cultural heritage of the area. For accommodation, we recommend Wuyishan Villa, located within the main scenic area and adjacent to the Bamboo Rafting endpoint at Wuyi Palace. Rates start at just 599/999 yuan (no surcharge for weekends or Mid-Autumn Festival). The garden-view rooms offer a natural oxygen-rich atmosphere, with over 80% of the hotel grounds covered in greenery. The hotel also serves Western cuisine for adults and children, features an indoor kids' playground, and offers immersive Wuyi tea culture experiences. In addition to bamboo rafting, you can hike to Tianyou Peak for a bird’s-eye view of the S-curves of Nine Bend Stream or explore the Yan Gu Hua Xiang Trail, a 3-kilometer walking route showcasing terraced tea fields. In the evening, don’t miss the "Impression Da Hong Pao" performance, a unique cultural showcase of tea traditions. Nine Bend Stream Bamboo Rafting is an unforgettable journey that immerses you in nature’s artistry while deepening your understanding of local culture. It’s a must-try experience for all travel enthusiasts—highly recommended!

We booked a bamboo raft ride in the morning. We had to wait for more people to join us, so we went to Xingcun to have Vietnamese noodles. The life jackets on the bamboo raft were covered with frost. The ride took about 100 minutes. We tipped the boatman CNY 20 each, and he provided excellent service. However, I felt a bit cold. The ride ended at around 11:00. We bought Wuyixing ice cream on Song Street, but it was not as good as expected. In the afternoon, we went to Tianyou Peak. We planned to take the big loop, but the road was blocked, so we had to go straight up the mountain. It was only 200 meters, and easy to climb. The view from the top was the best among the peaks. We went down the mountain via Zhongzheng Park and Taoyuan Cave. After passing Toutian Pass, we took a small path down the mountain, which was quite fun. It is best to go down to the foot of the mountain and walk along the Jiuqu Stream back to the foot of Tianyou Peak. It was not even 14:00, so we went to Yixiantian. We went to the right first, then to the left. The right side was indeed steeper and narrower, but the left side was better for taking photos. There were not many people in the off-season, and we did not smell any bad odors or get hit by any unknown objects. Finally, we arrived at Yunu Peak Station at 15:30 and watched the sunset. There was nothing else to do, so we went back to our accommodation early.

On the first day, we traveled from Xiamen to Wuyi Mountain by high-speed train, which took about three hours. Upon arrival, we took a tram for 10 yuan to Wuyi Mountain Station. From there, we took the free bus No. 6 to Sangu Resort and stayed at the All Seasons Hotel. For lunch, we dined at Yan Wuyi and ordered a 10-person set meal, which was very worthwhile as it included most of the signature Wuyi dishes. The mushrooms in Wuyi are really delicious. On the second day, we took a bus to the bamboo raft pier early in the morning. After checking in, we boarded the raft, which accommodates eight people. The bamboo raft ride, along with the boatman's commentary, lasted for over an hour and was definitely worth it! In the afternoon, we strolled and ate around Song Street and also visited Wuyi Palace. We then took the shuttle bus to the foot of Tianyou Peak. The round trip took a little over an hour, and climbing the 848 steps was actually not difficult. It was also a great spot for photos.

Who would have thought! I found a treasure in Wuyi Mountain! There's actually a hotel where you can check in by boat. As soon as you enter the garden, you are transported into a Song Dynasty landscape painting. After staying here, you really don’t want to leave! 🚣 First, the most amazing check-in ceremony! The villa is on an island in the middle of the lake. When you take the Dan boat over, the air is filled with the scent of grass and trees, and a private butler is waiting for you at the dock. The sense of ceremony is off the charts! The hotel was designed by CCD, full of Song-style elegance—backed by Dawang Peak, with a 20,000㎡ water system recreating the "Nine-Bend Boat Song." Walking along the paths, watching the shadows of trees and lights, even the air feels imbued with "wabi-sabi." Every photo you take looks like an ancient-style masterpiece! I absolutely love the rooms! The garden view terrace room has full voice control throughout the house. You can lie on the terrace and watch the mountains. The built-in bathtub faces the scenery, so you can soak while admiring the Wuyi landscape—pure bliss! The villa is even better, surrounded by water on all sides, with a full set of Ferragamo amenities, plus a gift of Dunli tea from 1843. Drinking tea while watching boats glide over the green waves is both luxurious and comfortable~ The food is also a hit! The floating private dining room is amazing—you can eat while watching boats pass by. The "Song Charm Rock Bone Flower Fragrance" cuisine is full of ceremony, and the local rustic dishes are so delicious you’ll lick your plate clean, fully satisfying your taste buds! Going out to play is super convenient: 15 minutes to drift down the Nine-Bend Stream, 16 minutes to the Dahongpao Scenic Area, and very close to the "Impression Dahongpao" show. If you don’t want to move, you can relax in the hotel’s heated pool, get a spa treatment, try pottery, or ride bikes for free. You won’t be bored all day~ 🏨 Hotel: Wuyi Chunbo Resort Hotel 📍 Address: No. 80 Fulongyan, Wuyi Mountain Resort Area, Wuyishan City, Fujian Province

When visiting Wuyi Mountain, a bamboo raft ride on the Nine-Bend Stream is a must. Wuyi Mountain currently doesn't charge an entrance fee, but the bamboo raft ride and shuttle bus do. In other words, if you just want to enjoy the scenery, you can walk along the Nine-Bend Stream without spending a penny. Wuyi Mountain is very comfortable in the off-season, with mild weather and fewer tourists. I booked a bamboo raft ride for the next day the night before, and there were still tickets available for every time slot. I booked the first bamboo raft ride in the morning and arrived on time at 7:30 am. It was still early, and the valley was shrouded in morning mist, with clouds and mist swirling around the mountains, creating a fairyland-like atmosphere. We were on the first bamboo raft, and there were no tourists behind us. The small bamboo raft drifted along the stream, with no crowds, only the sound of birds chirping and the bamboo pole gliding through the water. The stream was crystal clear, and fish swam freely in the water. When we threw a few fish food pellets we bought in advance, the fish jumped up to grab them, splashing a little water. It was so beautiful. The Nine-Bend Stream boasts beautiful scenery, and as the bamboo raft slowly drifted forward, we felt like we were wandering in a landscape painting.

Wuyi Mountain healing trip 🚣‍♀️ Bamboo raft drifting is the soul of the tour! Sitting on the bamboo raft drifting with the current, the mountains and waters reflect each other, and the mood becomes clear and bright～ A must-check-in in Wuyi Mountain is the Nine-Bend Creek bamboo raft drifting, which is truly amazing! The whole 90-minute slow journey lets you listen to the raft worker’s narration of legends on both banks while experiencing up close the artistic conception of "a boat sailing on the green waves, people traveling in a painting." If you’re lucky, you might see egrets skimming the water surface and fish leaping out of the green waves in lively scenes✨ Tianyou Peak, King Peak, Jade Maiden Peak... each has its own characteristics. From the ninth bend to the first bend, each has its unique charm. This more than one-hour tour really lets you appreciate the elegance of Wuyi Mountain, no wonder there is a saying, "Guilin’s landscape is the best under heaven, but not as good as a small hill in Wuyi." The depiction of "the boat sailing on the water, people traveling in a painting" is truly fitting. 📍Useful Information Address: Jiǔqū Creek Bamboo Raft Ticket Center, Wuyishan City, Nanping Opening Hours: 7:30-9:10 / 12:20-14:30 (Rafting stops during midday high temperature) Ticket Price: 225 RMB/person (It’s recommended to book in advance on Trip.com for a better deal) 💡Tips for the trip: 1. Be sure to choose the 7:30 AM departure! The creek surface with morning mist is the most beautiful 2. Bring 20 RMB cash as a tip for the raft worker for more vivid explanations and photo spots 3. The creek is open, so remember to apply sunscreen and wearing a sun hat is more comfortable 4. Wear non-slip sandals for easy boarding and disembarking from the bamboo raft 5. Prepare a waterproof phone pouch to capture swimming fish and flying birds anytime Drifting along the clear waters and red mountains with the sound of flowing water, watching the towering peaks on both banks, it feels like stepping into an ancient landscape painting. This leisure and comfort is definitely the most unforgettable experience of the Wuyi Mountain trip~

The lyrics of the song "Beautiful Wuyishan" mention "Beautiful Wuyishan, with its clear waters and green mountains, fragrant tea, and talented people," fully showcasing the natural beauty and cultural characteristics of Wuyishan. 2-Day Wuyishan Self-Drive Tour Guide Route Plan Day 1: Arrive in Wuyishan - Jiuqu Stream Bamboo Rafting - Wuyi Palace - Song Street • Morning: • Arrive in Wuyishan and check in to your hotel. We recommend choosing a hotel near the Sangu Resort, such as "Wuyishan Dafangju Villa Hotel," which offers convenient parking and a variety of nearby dining options. • Noon: • Enjoy lunch near your hotel and try local specialties such as smoked goose and tea-flavored beef. • Afternoon: • Head to Jiuqu Stream for bamboo rafting and admire the strange peaks and rocks and green bamboos and vines on both sides of the stream. The rafting trip takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes, so we recommend booking your bamboo raft tickets in advance. • Evening: • Visit Wuyi Palace and Song Street and try local snacks such as Da Hong Pao ice cream and Da Hong Pao milk tea. Day 2: Tianyou Peak - Yixiantian - Da Hong Pao Scenic Area - Return • Morning: • Head to Tianyou Peak and climb 848 steps to enjoy a panoramic view of Wuyishan. • Noon: • Enjoy lunch in or near the scenic area. • Afternoon: • Visit Yixiantian and experience the thrill of walking through narrow crevices. • Head to Da Hong Pao Scenic Area to see the six Da Hong Pao mother trees and learn about the history of Da Hong Pao tea. Highlights 1. Jiuqu Stream Bamboo Rafting: • Highlights: Jiuqu Stream is the soul of Wuyishan. The stream is clear and surrounded by green mountains, and you can see many famous peaks and rocks along the way. 2. Tianyou Peak: • Highlights: The most dangerous peak in Wuyishan, where you can enjoy the sea of clouds and beautiful scenery such as Yunwo, Cha Cave, and Yinping Peak. 3. Yixiantian: • Highlights: A long and narrow valley crack, with the narrowest part only wide enough for one person to pass through sideways, making it very challenging. 4. Da Hong Pao Scenic Area: • Highlights: Named after the most famous Da Hong Pao tea produced in Wuyishan, the scenic area is home to six Da Hong Pao mother trees. Practical Information • Transportation: We recommend driving for convenience and flexibility. Free bus service is available in Wuyishan Scenic Area. • Tickets: Scenic area ticket + sightseeing bus ticket: CNY 85 per person; bamboo raft ticket: CNY 130 per person • Accommodation: We recommend staying in Sangu Resort, which offers convenient transportation and a variety of nearby dining options. • Food: We recommend trying local specialties such as smoked goose, tea-flavored beef, and bamboo rice.

Right after the Lunar New Year holiday, while everyone was busy heading back, my friends and I embarked on a spontaneous getaway. The experience was simply amazing! A few days ago, Hangzhou was freezing, so we decided to find a warm and fun place with beautiful scenery to escape the cold. After much searching, we finally settled on Wuyishan in Nanping, Fujian. The high-speed train from Hangzhou only takes 2 hours, which is incredibly convenient. I have to say, Xu Xiake's description of Wuyishan's beautiful mountains and clear waters was spot on. There are many fun places to visit, and the best part is that traveling during the off-season means fewer crowds, stunning scenery, affordable prices, and even free admission to some attractions. The value for money is unbeatable! A super detailed itinerary to help you explore Wuyishan Day 1: Nine-Bend Stream bamboo raft → One Line Sky → Wuyi Palace → Song Street Day 2: Baiyun Temple → Zhizhi Nunnery → Wuyi Palace (by shuttle bus) → Tianyou Peak → Jade Maiden Peak → Taoyuan Cave Must-visit attractions, you'll regret missing them - Tianyou Peak: The ultimate viewing platform in Wuyishan. Reaching the top offers panoramic views of Wuyishan and the beautiful scenery of the Nine-Bend Stream. Although there are over 880 steps, the climb is not too tiring, and the scenery along the way is definitely worth it. - Jade Maiden Peak: Walk to the lakeside for a close-up view of the picturesque scenery. Every photo you take will be a masterpiece. - Nine-Bend Stream Bamboo Raft: A must-do activity in Wuyishan. The entire journey takes about 1.5 hours. Sitting on a bamboo raft, gliding between the green hills and clear waters on both sides, it feels like being in a painting. This activity has a separate fee. - Wuyi Palace: Located at the foot of Dawang Peak, it is the end point of the bamboo raft ride. It is connected to Song Street, which offers a variety of delicious food. It's a great place to stroll and eat. - Zhizhi Nunnery: First, go to the fish viewing area to feed the fish, then slowly walk towards the Zhizhi Nunnery Taoist temple. The path is quiet and serene, allowing for complete relaxation. - Baiyun Temple: It is recommended to take a taxi there. The sunrise and sea of clouds here are truly exceptional. Walking down from the temple, you can also see a large area of soft, green moss, as if you have stepped into a fairy tale world. Helpful tips for a smoother trip - Bamboo raft tickets: Highly recommend purchasing bamboo raft tickets for 12:20 pm. Remember to bring an umbrella, which can be used for both sun protection and as a photo prop. Give the boatman a 20-yuan tip, and he will explain the sights while rowing and even slow down for you to take photos. - Food: At the end of the bamboo raft ride, Wuyi Palace is connected to Song Street. Be sure to try the Dahongpao ice cream and tea eggs; they are delicious! - Tianyou Peak: Take the shuttle bus from Wuyi Palace to the Tianyou Peak stop. The round trip takes about 2 hours. Some sections of the path are quite steep, so those who are afraid of heights should be cautious. Also, there is no shade on the uphill sections, so be sure to take sun protection measures. - Tickets: Wuyishan Scenic Area is free of charge until June 30, 2025, but the scenic shuttle bus requires a separate purchase, costing 70 yuan for one day and 85 yuan for two days. The Nine-Bend Stream bamboo raft ticket costs 130 yuan. Transportation Guide You can take the high-speed train to Wuyishan North or Nanping Station. After arriving, take a taxi or the tram to the scenic area. The scenic area is open from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. It covers a large area and has multiple smaller attractions within. Although there are public buses, it is recommended to take the scenic shuttle bus for greater convenience and speed. During the scenic area's operating hours, outside vehicles are not allowed to enter. Wuyishan is truly an underrated travel destination. Traveling during the off-season after the Lunar New Year offers an unparalleled experience! If you're looking for a warm and fun place to relax and unwind, come and visit. I believe you will fall in love with it!

📅 2-Day/1-Night Highlights Itinerary * Recommended accommodation: Wuyi Mountain Secluded Resort (3 km from the scenic area entrance, afternoon tea included) 🌄 Day 1: Bamboo Raft Wonderland + Wuyi Palace Cultural Tour 07:30 Nine-Bend Stream Bamboo Raft Drifting (7:00 session, arrive 30 mins in advance) ✅ Highlights: Eagle's Beak Rock observation deck photography, wading in Liuxiang Stream 11:00 Wuyi Palace (visit Wanchun Garden to appreciate ancient Song Dynasty cypresses, stroll along Chongyang Stream) 12:30 Lunch at Song Street (recommended restaurant: "Wufu Morning Glow" to try Zhu Xi's Filial Piety Cake) 14:30 One-Line Sky Scenic Area (recommended to take the right path, deeper and more secluded than the left) 17:00 Check in and experience tea art (learn Song Dynasty tea making, taste mother tree Da Hong Pao tea) 🌙 Recommended night activity: Chongyang Stream night cruise (light show + bamboo raft folk songs) ⛰️ Day 2: Danxia Peaks + Tea Plantation Exploration 06:30 Tianyou Peak (cable car up and down recommended, enjoy the sea of clouds from the tea cave midway up the mountain) 08:30 Zen photography at Jade Maiden Peak (best with morning mist) 10:00 Da Hong Pao Scenic Area (walk to the mother tree Da Hong Pao, taste tea eggs along the way) 12:00 Taoyuan Cave (recommended to visit in the afternoon for softer lighting inside the cave) 14:30 Qinglong Waterfall/Longchuan Grand Canyon (choose one, Qinglong Waterfall recommended during rainy season) 17:00 Must-buys before returning: Filial Piety Cake, Lapsang Souchong tea, Jianzhan teacups (recommended to purchase at "Wuyi Mountain Tea Bureau Direct Store") 🚌 Transportation Tips: 1. Scenic area shuttle bus operates on a "one-ticket system," a 3-day pass is more cost-effective 2. Free shuttle bus between Tianyou Peak and Da Hong Pao Scenic Area (two departures: 9:00/13:30) 3. Electric sedan chair available from the bamboo raft dock to the south entrance of the scenic area (CNY 10/person) 🍜 Food Recommendations: - Wufu Town: "Zhu Xi Family Feast" for red-eye fish and cat's claw mushroom - Songxi County: "Century Sugarcane" brown sugar glutinous rice cake (1 hr drive from the city) - Night market recommendation: "Old Street Stir-fry" paired with cat's claw mushroom soup ⚠️ Important Notes: 1. Bring sun protection clothing and hats in summer and windproof jackets in winter for the bamboo raft dock 2. The best viewing platform is 100m before the steps of Tianyou Peak, saving effort on climbing 3. Reservations are recommended for tea plantation experiences ("Bu Zhi Chun Zhai" offers tea picking and making courses) 💡 Further Exploration: - If time permits, add "Xia Mei Ancient Residential Buildings" (relics of the Ming and Qing tea markets) - For photography enthusiasts, visit "First Waterfall of Danxia" early in the morning for mist photography - For families with children, the 4D rock painting experience at the "Wuyi Mountain Natural History Museum" is recommended