Yesanpo Scenic Area

Historical Overview

Yesanpo’s history dates back to the Warring States Period (475–221 BCE), when it served as a strategic military route. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it became a refuge for scholars and poets fleeing political turmoil, who left behind inscriptions and temples. In the 20th century, it gained fame as a filming location for movies like The Red Sorghum (1987). Recognized as a national geopark in 2004 and a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2006, Yesanpo now blends natural conservation with sustainable tourism, preserving its ecological and cultural treasures.

Structural Layout

The scenic area is divided into three core zones:

Baiquan Valley (White spring Valley): Famous for its cascading waterfalls, including the 100-meter-high Xianrenyu Waterfall, and ancient temples like Xianren Cave Temple.

Baishui Valley (White Water Valley): Home to the Hongqi Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Baishui Pavilion, a Ming Dynasty observation deck.

Hongshu Valley (Red Maple Valley): Renowned for its autumn foliage and the Yidaifeng Cliffs, a series of vertical rock faces.

Supporting structures include cable cars, hiking trails, and rafting routes, along with Ethnic Minority villages showcasing traditional architecture and customs.

Major Attractions

Xianrenyu Waterfall: A 100-meter-high cascade surrounded by lush greenery, offering a refreshing mist and rainbow sightings.

Baishui Pavilion: A Ming Dynasty wooden pavilion perched on a cliff, offering panoramic views of the valley.

Hongqi Canal: A 1,500-km-long engineering marvel built in the 1960s to divert water to drought-stricken regions, with a section winding through Yesanpo.

Yidaifeng Cliffs: Vertical rock formations ideal for rock climbing and photography.

Fairy Cave Temple: A Taoist temple carved into a cave, housing ancient statues and inscriptions.

Ethnic Minority Villages: Experience traditional dwellings, folk dances, and Handicrafts of the Manchu and Mongolian communities.

Bamboo rafting: Glide down the Juma River on bamboo rafts, passing through gorges and villages.

Suggested Itineraries

Classic Route (2–3 hours):

Entrance → Baiquan Valley (Xianrenyu Waterfall) → Baishui Pavilion → Hongqi Canal → Exit

Highlights: Iconic waterfalls, historic pavilion, and canal views.

Adventure Route (4–5 hours):

Entrance → Baiquan Valley (Xianrenyu Waterfall) → Yidaifeng Cliffs (rock climbing) → Bamboo Rafting → Ethnic Minority Village → Exit

Highlights: Outdoor activities and cultural immersion.

Comprehensive Route (Full Day):

Entrance → Baiquan Valley (Xianrenyu Waterfall, Fairy Cave Temple) → Baishui Valley (Baishui Pavilion, Hongqi Canal) → Hongshu Valley (Yidaifeng Cliffs, autumn foliage) → Bamboo Rafting → Ethnic Minority Village → Exit

Highlights: In-depth exploration of all valleys, adventure, and culture.

Ticket Purchase

Online: Book via the official Yesanpo website or Ctrip/Meituan (up to 3 days in advance).

On-Site: Tickets available at the entrance, but queues are long during holidays.

Prices:

Peak Season (April–October): ¥135 (adults), ¥65 (students/seniors).

Off-Season (November–March): ¥90 (adults), ¥45 (students/seniors).

Combo Ticket (Scenic Area + Cable Car): ¥200 (peak season), ¥150 (off-season).

Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, and military personnel.

Transportation

Train: High-speed trains from Beijing (1 hour) or Shijiazhuang (30 minutes) to Baoding East Station, then a 2-hour taxi to Yesanpo.

Bus: Long-distance buses from Beijing Liuliqiao Station (3 hours) or Shijiazhuang South Station (1.5 hours) to Yesanpo Bus Terminal.

Car: Drive via the Jingshi Expressway; parking available at the entrance.

Departure: Exit via the north gate to reach Baiyangdian Lake or Qingxiuling Nature Reserve.

Best Time & Tips

Peak Hours: Avoid 10 AM–2 PM; visit early (7:30 AM opening) or late (after 4 PM).

Crowds: Summer weekends and Chinese holidays (e.g., National Day) are busiest; spring and autumn weekdays are ideal.

Weather: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer mild temperatures and vibrant foliage.

Essentials:

Wear waterproof shoes (wet trails and rafting).

Bring sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent.

Photography allowed (use tripods cautiously in crowded areas).

Prohibited items: Drones without permission, littering, and feeding wildlife.