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Pingshan Grand Canyon Travel Guide (mainly about Pingshan Grand Canyon in Enshi, Hubei) Known as the "Maldives of China," Pingshan Grand Canyon has become popular online for its crystal-clear river water, seemingly floating boats, and steep canyon landscape. It is one of the most popular hidden gems in Enshi. Here's a detailed guide to help you explore this wonderland! --- ### Basic Information - Location: Pingshan Village, Hefeng County, Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Hubei Province - Best time to visit: April to October (best for summer escape, water is clearer after the rainy season) - Features: Deep canyon, jade-like water, floating boat photo ops, and marvelous crevices --- ### Must-See Attractions & Experiences 1. Floating Boat Photo Ops - Location: "Peach Blossom Ferry" dock at the bottom of the canyon - How to play: Rent a boat (about CNY 20-50/person) to take photos of the "floating" effect. Midday on a sunny day is recommended for the best lighting. - Tips: Wear bright clothes (such as red or white) for better photos. Drone shots are even more stunning (prior registration required). 2. A Thread of Sky & Thousand-Foot Cliff - The narrowest part of the canyon allows only one boat to pass through. Looking up, it resembles a "thread of sky." The vertical cliffs are towering and spectacular. 3. Five-Foot Gate & Moon-Gazing Bridge - A narrow natural stone gate and a simple wooden bridge, perfect for hiking and exploring. 4. Crevice Rafting (seasonal) - Experience kayaking in the canyon during summer for a cool and thrilling adventure (pay attention to water level and safety). --- ### Tickets & Transportation - Tickets: CNY 210 (including one-way boat ticket), discounted tickets for students/seniors CNY 128. - Transportation: - Self-driving: Enshi City → Hefeng County (about 3 hours) → Pingshan Village (1-hour mountain road, drive carefully due to many curves). - Public transportation: Take a bus from Enshi Passenger Station to Hefeng (CNY 60/person), then take a chartered car to the scenic area (about CNY 100/car). - Route within the scenic area: Tourist Center → Hike down the mountain (about 1 hour) → Explore the valley bottom → Take a boat out of the canyon (20 minutes) → Shuttle bus back to the entrance. --- ### Accommodation Recommendations 1. Hefeng County: Better facilities, recommended chain hotels (such as Huarong Business Hotel), convenient for early access to the scenic area the next day. 2. Pingshan Village Homestays: Experience the rural scenery up close, such as "Pingshan Grand Canyon Homestay" (affordable, but facilities are basic). --- ### Useful Tips 1. Best Time to Visit: - Try to enter the park before 10:00 am to avoid peak crowds (there may be a 2-hour+ queue in the afternoon). - The water is clearest 1-2 days after rain, but check the weather forecast in advance, as the park may be closed due to heavy rain. 2. Clothing Recommendations: - Non-slip sneakers (the valley bottom is slippery), sun protection clothing and hats, and a light backpack. - You can bring sandals if you want to play in the water, but the water temperature is low. 3. Safety Tips: - The mobile phone signal is weak in the canyon, so it is recommended to travel with companions. - Be cautious during the rainy season and avoid flash flood risks. 4. Nearby Attractions: - Enshi Grand Canyon (3-hour drive): Crevices and cliff walkways. - Lion Pass (popular floating bridge): Can be visited on the way. --- ### Sample Itinerary 2 Days 1 Night: - Day 1: Enshi → Hefeng County (stay overnight in Hefeng) - Day 2: Pingshan Grand Canyon tour (4-5 hours) → Return to Enshi in the afternoon. In-depth 3-Day Itinerary: - Day 1: Enshi → Lion Pass → Stay overnight in Xuan'en - Day 2: Pingshan Grand Canyon → Stay overnight in Hefeng - Day 3: Dongjiahe Hiking → Return trip