Drifting in Maoyanhe River

Li River, a tributary of the Yangtze, runs through Zhangjiajie city. Its sources are in Sangzhi County in Hunan and Hefeng County in Hubei Province and once the two streams combine, the river flows east into Dongting Lake. Li River is the most beautiful, clearest and least polluted river in Hunan Province. It is a perfect place for rafting. In the past China had no other place for rafting and as the following shows, we will lead you to the upper reaches of Li River for an exciting experience on what is known as the Maoyanhe River.

From Zhangjiajie airport, it is only 39 kilometers to Maoyanhe. Take the No. 13 bus from downtown that will take you to the dock. There is a total of 28 kilometers of water suitable for drifting as the river level drops by 66 meters with 55 bends. Like the famous Three Gorges, Maoyanhe River passes through green mountains in a deep valley, with high waterfalls which together with the many bends help create the waves on the clear water of the river. So it earns the name of "Bai Li Gallery", meaning the scenery along the river is as beautiful as a gallery.

Although your raft takes you past many bends with rapid currents, it is very safe and exciting as the overall drop of the river is not so great and there is a fair distance between the banks. So, you can set your heart at rest and take the adventurous and exciting excursion. The main highlights along Maoyanhe River are Maoyan Bank, Wentang Hotspring, Mayang Ferry, Maoyan Gorge, Shuidongzi Waterfall, etc. all forming part of as many as thirty scenic places. You will also find many Tujia stockaded villages scattered among the mountains along the two river banks. 

Drifting down the Maoyanhe River, the Shuidongzi Waterfall is sure to make an impact. The groundwater flows from a large cave in the cliff creating the waterfall. It is over 70 meters high and 45 meters wide. What makes it different from other waterfalls us due to the fact that the water flows from separate cracks in the cliff and then the several columns of water join together to pour down, like hundreds of jade fragments scattered over the mountain.

The rafting down the River may take at least three hours. The best time for the trip is from April to October. The manpowered raft costs CNY114 per person, while the powered raft costs CNY124 per person. Your journey down the picturesque Maoyanhe River will dispel all fatigue and helplessness immediately. Only excitement attends you. We suggest you buy a bamboo water pistol and a water ladle when you board your raft. During the trip, many tourists from different places join in the friendly fun and it is usual to splash water with either a pistol or ladle in mock battles when rafts come within reach of one another. In no time at all, everyone is wringing wet, laughing and yelling happily from all the rafts.

You can find the bus back to Yichang after you finish your river adventure.