Baligou Scenic Area is located in the northwest of Huixian City, Xinxiang, Henan Province, and is a national 5A-level tourist attraction. As an important part of the South Taihang Mountain tourism area, it covers a total area of 42 square kilometers with elevations ranging from 300 to 1,700 meters. Known for its "majestic, peculiar, precipitous, and beautiful" features, it combines landscape scenery, geological wonders, and cultural landscapes, earning the reputation as "the soul of Taihang and the backbone of China".
History and Culture
Baligou has a long history and profound cultural heritage. It was an important part of the ancient "Eight Passes of Taihang", serving as a crucial passage connecting Shanxi and the Central Plains since ancient times. The scenic area preserves ancient road relics from the Ming and Qing dynasties, witnessing ancient commercial travels and military activities.
Baligou is also one of the important birthplaces of Taoist culture. Legend has it that Laozi once preached here. Taoist relics such as the Laojun Cave and Jade Emperor Palace reflect the long-standing Taoist cultural traditions. Additionally, the area retains rich folk legends and customs.
Main Attractions
Tianhe Waterfall
The iconic landscape of Baligou, with a drop of 180 meters, making it one of the highest waterfalls in North China. The waterfall cascades down the cliff with tremendous momentum, especially spectacular during the rainy season. A deep pool forms at the base with crystal clear water.
Red Stone River
An 8-kilometer-long canyon stream named for its red bedrock. With clear water, towering peaks, and lush vegetation on both banks, it creates a picturesque scene of "water flowing over stones, people traveling in a painting". Several pools of varying depths along the way make it an ideal place for summer retreat and water play.
One-Line Sky
A typical canyon landscape with towering cliffs on both sides, the narrowest point allowing only one person to pass sideways. The 200-meter-long, 100-meter-high canyon offers only a slit view of the sky, hence its name. The cool and quiet canyon is excellent for geological exploration and adventure.
Laojun Cave
Legend says this natural cave was where Laozi preached. The cave features stalactites in various shapes, including natural scenes like "Laozi Preaching" and "Alchemy Furnace". A Taoist temple outside the cave attracts many worshippers, making it an important site to understand Taoist culture.
Jade Emperor Palace
A Taoist architectural complex at the highest point of the scenic area, originally built in the Ming Dynasty. The magnificent buildings cling to the mountain, enshrining Taoist deities like the Jade Emperor. It offers a panoramic view of the entire Baligou scenic area with broad vistas and spectacular scenery.
Cuisine
Huixian Stewed Noodles
A Xinxiang specialty featuring chewy noodles in rich broth with ingredients like lamb and tofu. Delicious and a local staple food.
Taihang Mountain Wild Mushrooms
Various wild mushrooms collected from the Taihang Mountains, delicious and nutritious. Common preparations include stir-fried mushrooms and mushroom soup, representing authentic mountain cuisine.
Farmhouse Free-range Chicken
Locally raised free-range chickens with firm texture and delicious taste. Common preparations include stewed chicken and stir-fried chicken, signature dishes at farmhouse restaurants.
Recommended Nearby Cuisine
Other Northern Henan specialties worth trying include Xinxiang Braised Lamb, Daokou Braised Chicken, and Huojia Hele noodles, available at restaurants near the scenic area or in downtown Xinxiang.
Ticket Information
Baligou Scenic Area tickets cost 80 yuan per person during peak season (April 1-October 31) and 60 yuan during off-season (November 1-March 31). The scenic shuttle bus costs an additional 30 yuan. Seniors over 60 and students with valid IDs enjoy half-price discounts, while children under 1.4 meters enter free.
Opening Hours
The scenic area is open year-round from 7:30-17:30 during peak season and 8:00-17:00 during off-season. Ticket sales stop one hour before closing at each attraction.
Recommended Itinerary
Recommended one-day itinerary: Take the shuttle to Red Stone River area in the morning to visit attractions like Red Stone River and One-Line Sky; have lunch at a farmhouse restaurant; visit Tianhe Waterfall in the afternoon to admire the spectacular falls; finally ascend to Jade Emperor Palace for panoramic views. Visitors with more time can stay overnight to experience Taihang Mountain's night and morning scenery.
Transportation
- By car: From downtown Xinxiang, drive north on Jinxin Expressway for about 60 km, exit at Huixian, and follow signs for about 30 minutes to reach the destination
- By bus: Take the Xinxiang-Baligou tourist shuttle from Xinxiang East Bus Station directly to the scenic area
- By high-speed rail: Take high-speed rail to Xinxiang East Station, then transfer by bus or taxi to the scenic area (about 70 km)
Must-See Attractions
- Tianhe Waterfall: One of North China's highest waterfalls with tremendous momentum
- Red Stone River: 8-km-long red canyon stream with unique scenery
- One-Line Sky: Typical canyon landscape, narrowest point fits only one person
- Jade Emperor Palace: Highest point offering panoramic views of Baligou
Travel Tips
- Wear anti-slip hiking shoes as some sections can be slippery
- Use sun protection in summer and keep warm in winter
- The scenic area involves considerable walking; pace yourself
- Waterfalls are more spectacular during rainy season but be safety-conscious
- Allow at least 5-6 hours for visiting; 1-2 days recommended for in-depth exploration
Precautions
- Mountain weather changes frequently; check forecasts in advance
- Areas near waterfalls are slippery; stay away from dangerous zones
- Protect the environment; no littering
- Smoking is prohibited in the scenic area; observe fire prevention regulations
- Take care of personal belongings, especially in crowded areas
- Respect local religious customs when visiting Taoist sites