Hubei's Stunning Water Highway, Breathing Fresh Air in the Mountains

A perfect weekend getaway for two days and one night led me to the picturesque Xingshan County in Yichang, where I stayed immersed in an ink-wash painting-like scenery while breathing fresh air. The local farmhouse cuisine was also incredibly delicious. 🌟 Itinerary Day 1: Arrived at the hotel at noon 👉 The famous Water Ancient Zhaolu Highway is right at the foot of the hotel. Day 2: Zhaojun Village 👉 Chaotianhou Drifting 🌟 Must-Visit Attractions 1⃣ China's Most Beautiful Water Highway Guzhao Highway (Navigation: Gufu Town, Xingshan County) Highlights: This 10.9-kilometer "water dragon" has 4.4 kilometers built over the Xiangxi River! Surrounded by emerald waters and lush mountains, it looks like a jade ribbon from above, and driving through it feels like gliding through a painting. Tips: The best photo spot is at the middle section of the Xiangxi River Bridge—a drone shot is highly recommended! 2⃣ Zhaojun Village Zhaojun Town, Xingshan County Highlights: The birthplace of Wang Zhaojun! This ancient Han Dynasty village, paired with the stunning Xiangxi River, makes every shot a masterpiece of ancient charm. Must-Do: - Hanfu Experience: Dress in traditional Han attire and capture a lifetime portrait in this historic village. - Purple Bamboo Garden: Legend says it was transformed by a rainbow fairy—the bamboo forest's light and shadows are breathtaking. (Unfortunately, I ran out of time and missed it.) 3⃣ Chaotianhou Drifting Gaolan Town, Xingshan County Highlights: A thrilling 6.5-kilometer route with a 148-meter drop! Guaranteed screams and soaking wet fun—a must-try in summer. Tips: Bring a change of clothes! Lockers are available at the site. (It wasn’t open during my visit but should open by mid-to-late June.) 4⃣️ Gaolan Grand Waterfall Located at the endpoint of Chaotianhou Drifting, this photogenic spot is free to visit. 🌟 Accommodation Recommendation: Houshan Countryside Hotel, nestled halfway up the mountain with a direct view of Guzhao Highway. 🌟 Food Guide: Xingshan’s Three Treasures: - Crispy Pork: Crunchy outside, tender inside—perfect with chili powder! - Liangfen (Jelly Noodles): Made with mountain spring water, silky and refreshing! - Qingjiang Fish: Wild-caught from Xiangxi River—unbelievably fresh! 🌟 Transportation Guide 🚗 Drive: ~4.5 hours from Wuhan to the hotel (direct highway). 🚄 High-Speed Rail: Take a train from Wuhan to Xingshan Station, then a short taxi ride to the hotel/attractions. 🚌 Bus: From Yichang Bus Station, take Route 808 directly to Chaotianhou Scenic Area.