Jinsi Xia (Golden Silk Gorge) Scenic Area is located in Shangnan County, Shangluo City, Shaanxi Province, at the southern foot of the Qinling Mountains and the upper reaches of the Danjiang River. Covering a total area of 28.6 square kilometers, it is a national 5A-level tourist attraction, national forest park, and national geopark. The gorge extends about 10 kilometers deep with a total length of 20.5 kilometers, featuring unique cliff-valley landforms that integrate canyon landscapes, caves, waterfalls, and forests. It boasts 6 national-level geological relics and 25 provincial-level geological relics, with forest coverage reaching 98%. The negative oxygen ion concentration here can reach up to 36,000/cm³, earning it the reputation as "China's Most Beautiful Grand Canyon".
History and Culture
Jinsi Xia has rich historical and cultural heritage. Shangnan County, where it's located, was historically known as the "Qin-Chu Strategic Passage", a military stronghold since ancient times. The scenic area preserves remnants of ancient plank roads that witnessed the development of transportation and commerce in antiquity. Additionally, the local folk culture is vibrant, with distinctive regional characteristics formed around the Qinling mountainous environment, including farming culture, folk arts, and traditional festivals like temple fairs and mountain song duets, showcasing the historical harmony between humans and nature.
Main Attractions
Bailong Xia (White Dragon Gorge)
Approximately 3.5 kilometers long, Bailong Xia gets its name from its winding shape resembling a white dragon. The gorge features towering cliffs and crystal-clear streams, with attractions like "White Dragon Cave" and "Stone Swallow Village". The latter sits at 1,099 meters above sea level, offering one of the best panoramic views of the canyon.
Qinglong Xia (Green Dragon Gorge)
Spanning about 4 kilometers, Qinglong Xia is known for its precipitous cliffs and lush vegetation. Key attractions include "Lingguan Temple", "Crescent Gorge", and "One-Line Sky". The narrowest part of "One-Line Sky" measures just 0.5 meters wide with towering rock walls on both sides, creating a spectacular geological wonder.
Heilong Xia (Black Dragon Gorge)
Extending about 5 kilometers, Heilong Xia is famous for its deep serenity and numerous waterfalls. Notable sites include "Black Dragon Cave", "Sorceress Waterfall", and "Twin Streams Waterfall". The Sorceress Waterfall plunges over 30 meters, resembling a silver ribbon cascading through the air with tremendous momentum.
Danjiang Source
As one of the headwaters of the Danjiang River located in the northeast of the scenic area, this area features dense vegetation and clear water. It has a "Danjiang Source Monument" and ecological walking trails, making it an ideal spot to explore water-source culture and connect with nature.
Cuisine
Shangnan Jiao Tuan
A traditional local peasant dish made from corn or buckwheat flour through stirring and steaming. It has a smooth texture and is typically served with pickled vegetables and chili sauce, representing characteristic Qinling mountain cuisine.
Immortal Jelly
Made from leaves of the local "Immortal Tree", this dark green jelly has a refreshing texture and helps clear heat and quench thirst. Often served with garlic paste, vinegar and chili, it's a must-try summer snack.
Shangnan Stuffed Pancake
A crispy pancake wrapped around egg mixture, often served with vegetables and sauces. This nutritious street food is popular among visitors.
Recommended Nearby Cuisine
Visitors can also enjoy Danjiang Fish Banquet (featuring wild fish prepared various ways) and Shangzhi Pork (made with local Shangzhi herb for a rich but not greasy flavor), experiencing authentic southern Shaanxi culinary culture.
Ticket Information
Peak season (March 1-November 30) ticket price: 100 RMB/person; Off-season (December 1-February 28/29): 80 RMB/person. Seniors, disabled visitors, and active military personnel may enjoy free or discounted admission with valid ID (subject to on-site announcements).
Opening Hours
Peak season: 7:30-16:30; Off-season: 8:00-16:00. Last admission one hour before closing. Hours may adjust due to weather conditions - check official notices before visiting.
Recommended Itineraries
One-Day Classic Route: Entrance → Bailong Xia (Stone Swallow Village, White Dragon Cave) → Qinglong Xia (One-Line Sky, Crescent Gorge) → Heilong Xia (Sorceress Waterfall, Black Dragon Cave) → Danjiang Source → Return. This 8-10km route covers three main gorges and takes 5-6 hours (wear comfortable shoes).
In-Depth Tour: Day 1: Bailong Xia & Qinglong Xia (stay overnight in local guesthouse); Day 2: Heilong Xia & Danjiang Source for hiking and eco-tourism. This route showcases day-night scenery variations, suitable for visitors with more time.
Transportation
- By Car:
- From Xi'an: Take G40 Shanghai-Xi'an Expressway to Shangnan exit (about 260km, 3.5 hours).
- From Zhengzhou: Take G30 Lianyungang-Khorgas Expressway to G40 (about 380km, 4.5 hours).
- From Wuhan: Take G70 Fuzhou-Yinchuan Expressway to G40 (about 520km, 6 hours).
- Public Transport:
- High-speed rail/regular train to Shangnan Station, then transfer to scenic shuttle/taxi (30km, 40 minutes).
- Long-distance buses from Xi'an Textile City Terminal or Shangluo Station to Shangnan County, then local transfer.
Must-See Attractions
- Stone Swallow Village: At 1,099m elevation, offers breathtaking canyon views - perfect for photography.
- One-Line Sky: Qinglong Xia's signature narrow passage (only 0.5m wide) between towering cliffs.
- Sorceress Waterfall: Heilong Xia's iconic 30m waterfall with exceptionally high negative ion concentration.
- Danjiang Source: Explore the river's origin through pristine forest trails.
Travel Tips
- Wear anti-slip sports shoes as some paths can be slippery.
- Summer: Bring sun protection and insect repellent; Winter: Dress warmly for possible icy paths.
- Carry sufficient water/snacks as vendors are limited within the park.
- Visit on clear days - rain may close certain areas (check weather forecast).
- For in-depth tours, book mountain guesthouses in advance for overnight stays.
Important Notes
- No smoking or open flames permitted to protect the ecosystem. Do not pick plants or feed wildlife.
- Follow signage and staff instructions. Avoid restricted areas and hike with companions.
- Secure personal belongings, especially in crowded areas or shuttle buses.
- Children and seniors require supervision on steep sections.
- In case of emergencies, follow evacuation instructions promptly.