Explore Shitai Guniujiang: The Last Green Wonderland in East China

Tired of the noise and hustle of the city? Longing for a tranquil place where your body and mind can be nourished and relaxed in the embrace of nature? Then Shitai Guniujiang is definitely your top choice! This stunning hidden gem in southern Anhui is like an uncut jade, exuding a primitive and enchanting charm, waiting for you to unveil its mysterious veil. Highlights: A Perfect Blend of Nature and Culture Guniujiang is known as "the last piece of primeval forest in East China," with a forest coverage rate of 97.96% and a negative oxygen ion concentration 35 times higher than the world’s fresh air standard, earning it the title of a "natural oxygen bar." Stepping inside feels like entering a green fairy tale world. Majestic peaks stand in a row, bizarre rocks jut out, crystal-clear streams meander through, and emerald pools are embedded like jade in the mountains. Especially the famous Longmen Pool, where sunlight sparkles on the water, bamboo rafts gently drift, creating a poetic and picturesque scene that captivates visitors. Besides the breathtaking natural scenery, Guniujiang also boasts profound cultural heritage. The ancient Yan family village quietly sits here, with quaint Hui-style architecture arranged harmoniously. The 600-year-old camphor trees stand like loyal guardians of the village. Walking into the ancient village, the autumn drying scenes in front of old houses are full of life, and intangible cultural heritage handcraft experiences let you appreciate traditional culture. Local delicacies like homemade dried bamboo shoots and kudzu starch balls are rich with deep rural affection in every bite. Transportation Guide: Convenient Travel, Easy Arrival High-speed rail: Visitors can first arrive at Chizhou Station, then take the "Chizhou High-speed Rail Station - Guniujiang" tourist shuttle bus from the tourist bus parking lot. The whole journey is 100 kilometers, ticket price is 30 yuan, and it takes about 2 hours. Daily departure times are 7:30 and 10:30, with return trips at 14:00 and 16:00 from the scenic area back to the high-speed rail station. Be sure to plan your trip in advance. Self-driving tour: Navigate directly to "Shitai Guniujiang Scenic Area." It takes about 3 to 4 hours from Hefei, Nanjing, Hangzhou, and other cities. The scenic area parking lot charges reasonably, 10 yuan per day for small vehicles, so your car can also "rest" safely. The scenery along the way is beautiful, with rolling mountains, making the drive an enjoyable experience. Accommodation Recommendations: Sleep by the Mountains, Return to Nature Inside the scenic area - Longmen Mountain Villa: Open your window to mountain views, wake up in the morning to birdsong, and feel nature’s gentle awakening. Its prime location makes it easy to start your exploration anytime. Luxury choice - Julong Guniujiang Hotel: Featuring unique Hui-style garden design, some rooms have terraces where you can gaze at the starry sky at night, extremely romantic. The hotel also offers private hot spring baths and an infinity pool with mountain views, allowing you to relax and enjoy leisure time after your adventures. Homestay style - Xiyuan Homestay: The hospitable owner might even take you to dig bamboo shoots, giving you a taste of mountain wilderness fun. The homestay environment is warm and full of a homey feeling, letting you feel cozy and welcomed during your trip. Tour Routes: Easy Check-ins, No Regrets The currently well-developed area is the Longmen Scenic Area, offering two classic routes for you to choose from: Classic Loop: Scenic area entrance → Ancient forest → Yan family ancient village → Mandarin Duck Pool → Lover’s Valley → Four-tier Waterfall → Bamboo Forest Listening to the Waves → Pastoral Scenery → Jade Pool → Zhuma Pavilion → Longmen Pool → Scenic area entrance. This route covers all the attractions. Although it involves some climbing, the continuous beautiful scenery makes it well worth it. Light Hiking Route: Scenic area entrance → Longmen Pool → Zhuma Pavilion → Jade Pool → Return → Ancient forest → Yan family ancient village → Mandarin Duck Pool → Lover’s Valley → Four-tier Waterfall → Return. This route skips the climbing part, suitable for visitors who don’t want to get too tired. The main attractions are still fully covered, though two sections require backtracking. Delicious Food Temptations: Taste of Shitai Shitai One-Pot: A must-try signature dish! Made by layering cured meat, tofu, dried bamboo shoots, and other ingredients, simmered together. The ingredients are rich and diverse, with a strong and mellow flavor. Every bite is full of layers, fresh and delicious, leaving you wanting more. Snail Chicken Stew: Free-range native chicken paired with snails from the Qiupu River. The chicken meat is glossy and firm, the snail meat thick and tender. Stewed together, the meat is tender and the broth fresh, with a rich sauce aroma that whets your appetite. You’ll fall in love with it at first bite. Qiupu Small River Fish: Cold-water small fish fried to golden crispiness, even the bones can be eaten. The texture is crispy and tasty, making it an excellent dish to accompany drinks and a must-try specialty. Helpful Tips: Make Your Trip Perfect The ticket price is 100 yuan for adults (including round-trip scenic shuttle bus). Seniors over 60 and students enjoy half-price discounts. Children under 1.2 meters are free. Remember to bring relevant documents. There are many mosquitoes in the scenic area, so it is recommended to bring mosquito repellent. In summer, you can play in the water, so bring slippers, swimsuits, and other gear to fully enjoy the coolness. Check the weather in advance and prepare suitable clothing and rain gear to cope with changing weather. Protect the environment by taking your trash with you, jointly preserving this beautiful pure land. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Shitai Guniujiang. In this last green wonderland of East China, encounter a romantic date with nature and leave behind unforgettable beautiful memories!