Qingtian River Scenic Area, located in Bo'ai County, Jiaozuo City, Henan Province, is a national 5A-level tourist attraction and UNESCO Global Geopark. Covering 106 square kilometers, it's renowned as the "Three Gorges of North China" for its magnificent landscapes, comprising five main areas: Daquan Lake, Sangou Spring, Guanyin Gorge, Fo'er Gorge, and Jinjialing Ridge. This natural alpine canyon area combines grandeur, peril, wonder, and beauty, earning the title "Central China's Premier Landscape Gallery."
History and Culture
Originally called "Dan River," Qingtian attracted literati during Northern Wei Dynasty. By Sui-Tang periods, it became a Buddhist sanctuary, leaving behind cliff carvings and temple ruins.
During Ming-Qing dynasties, advanced irrigation systems transformed it into a prosperous region. Ancient watermills and aqueducts remain today.
Tourism development began in 1980s, achieving 4A status in 2003 and 5A in 2011. In 2014, it became Jiaozuo's second Global Geopark after Yuntai Mountain.
Main Attractions
Daquan Lake
The core area - a 7.5km-long, 300m-wide lake (30-50m deep) with emerald waters flanked by spectacular peaks. Boat tours reveal stunning "canyon-lake" scenery including natural formations like "Carp Leaping Dragon Gate."
Guanyin Gorge
A 3km perilous gorge narrowing to mere meters, featuring a natural Guanyin rock formation and waterfalls like "Heaven's Gate" and "Pearl."
Jinjialing Ridge
At 1,200m elevation, this autumn foliage hotspot turns crimson in October-November with smoke trees and maples, offering panoramic views from its observation deck.
Fo'er Gorge
Named for its Buddha's-ear shape, this ancient-wooded gorge preserves Northern Wei carvings and Tang Buddhist ruins, important for studying early Buddhism.
Featured Experiences
Canyon Cruise
1.5-hour guided boat tours showcase geological wonders and cultural history along Daquan Lake's majestic cliffs and waterfalls.
Glass Skywalk
An 80m U-shaped glass platform 200m above Guanyin Gorge provides thrilling 360-degree views.
Red Leaves Festival
Central China's largest autumn foliage event (mid-Oct to mid-Nov) features photography contests and folk performances amid Jinjialing's vibrant colors.
Cuisine
Dan River Carp
Local delicacy - tender carp from pristine waters served steamed, braised, or in soup, often presented as "three carp dishes."
Huai-style Donkey Meat
Jiaozuo's traditional braised donkey meat with herbal broth - nutritious and blood-nourishing.
Wild Mountain Vegetables
Local ferns, toon shoots, and wild mushrooms rich in vitamins/minerals, often served as farm-style scrambled eggs.
Ticket Information
Peak season (Mar-Nov): 70 yuan; Off-season: 40 yuan. Boat: 80 yuan; Glass walkway: 30 yuan. Half-price for seniors over 60/students, free under 1.4m. Guided tours available by booking.
Tour Route
Recommended day trip: Entrance → Daquan Lake cruise → Guanyin Gorge (with skywalk) → Fo'er Gorge → Jinjialing Ridge → Return (5-6 hours). Add Sangou Spring if time permits.
Transportation
- Driving: ~1.5hrs from Jiaozuo via Provincial Rd S306
- Bus: Direct tourist buses from Jiaozuo Terminal
- Train: Nearest station Jiaozuo (~50km away)
- Airport: Zhengzhou Xinzheng Int'l Airport (~120km)
Must-Visit Attractions
- Daquan Lake cruise: Experience "North China Three Gorges"
- Guanyin Gorge skywalk: Challenge the thrilling excitement of viewing the scenery from a high altitude
- Jinjialing autumn foliage: Central China's best
- Fo'er Gorge: Explore ancient Buddhist sites
- Sangou Spring: Marvel at geological wonders
Tour Suggestions
- Best visiting: April-June & September-November
- Summer: bring sun protection; winter: warm layers
- Wear anti-slip shoes for steep sections
- Protect environment - no littering
- Consider shuttle carts (extra fee) for large area
Precautions
- Remain seated during boat movement
- Those with hypertension/heart conditions avoid heights
- Preserve cultural relics - no touching carvings
- Follow rules - no entering restricted areas
- Secure valuables in crowded areas