Two-Day Getaway to Xuancheng: A Healing Journey Through Scenic Landscapes and Local Flavors

Amidst the hustle and bustle of life, take two days off and head to Xuancheng for a short yet delightful trip filled with surprises. This journey offers both the elegance of nature and the charm of local life, leaving unforgettable memories at every stop. Day 1: Leisurely Bamboo Rafting and Ancient Villages in the Mist We set off for Xuancheng early on Friday, planning to experience bamboo rafting at Xijin Yedu first. Checking the weather forecast before departure, we expected rain in Ningguo and hoped to encounter misty scenery. Instead, we were greeted by blazing sunshine. Nonetheless, the nearly three-and-a-half-hour drive through mountain roads was exhilarating. Passing by Qinglongwan Reservoir, we couldn’t resist stopping to admire the stunning lake and mountain views—every snapshot looked like a postcard. Soon, we arrived at Xijin Yedu. Since it was a weekday, the scenic area wasn’t crowded, allowing us to enjoy the trip at a relaxed pace. We first filled our stomachs at "Zui Xing Yun" restaurant near the entrance, where three dishes cost only 160 yuan—delicious and affordable. Plus, the restaurant had a parking lot right next to it, which was super convenient. After the meal, we boarded the bamboo rafts just across the street. The owner mentioned that the price used to be 60 yuan per person but had increased to 80 yuan under new management. My child, nearly 1.3 meters tall, got a free ride after some friendly bargaining, so we paid 160 yuan for two adults and one child. Drifting on the raft for half an hour, surrounded by lush green mountains and gentle breezes, was incredibly soothing—the perfect escape from the summer heat. After the rafting, we headed straight to Jixi (where we’d booked a hotel in advance). Since we planned to visit the Grand Canyon the next day, we decided to detour and explore a few attractions in the afternoon. On the way to Meiganling, we stumbled upon a crystal-clear stream where our child eagerly played in the water. The scenic spot even had a dedicated parking area, so we lingered for half an hour before reluctantly moving on. Though it wasn’t the season for rapeseed flowers, Meiganling’s landscape was still breathtaking. After grabbing two bottles of water from a vending machine, we hurried to our next stop—Longchuan Scenic Area. Arriving at 5:15 PM, we met a kind elderly man at the entrance who whispered that if we waited a few minutes until his shift ended, we could enter for free. Just as we stepped inside, thunder rumbled, and we rushed through the sights before a downpour forced us to dash back to the car. With the rain pouring, we opted for takeout at our hotel. We stayed at City Comfort Inn, where we chatted with the owner’s mother while waiting for our food. She mentioned the hotel had just opened in May, explaining why the rooms were so new and clean. The hospitable owner even treated us to a few "ta guo" (local pastries), and the pickled vegetable flavor won me over—savory and utterly addictive. The next morning, opening the window revealed a dreamy fog-shrouded landscape, which I quickly captured with my camera. Day 2: Exploring the Grand Canyon and Old Street Delicacies After breakfast at the hotel, we set off for Zhangxi Grand Canyon around 9 AM. Tickets cost 54 yuan for adults and half-price for children. The winding mountain road to the canyon was steep and required careful driving. Light drizzle at the entrance soon turned into heavy rain, leaving little chance to take photos. Yet, the canyon’s beauty was awe-inspiring. Crossing a log bridge, we missed a close-up view of Baizhang Rock due to the downpour, but the small waterfalls and Tianmen Bridge along the way showcased nature’s artistry. Soaked by the time we exited, we gladly paid 10 yuan for a shuttle ride back to the parking lot—a lifesaver compared to hiking downhill. Leaving the canyon, we visited Helixi Old Street in Ningguo. Parking at Dongjin Elementary School (free of charge—how generous!), we crossed a bridge to try the viral drink shop "Cawalker." Their mango slush was a summer savior—refreshing and sweet. We also sampled rice wine, but the mango slush won our hearts. Finally, we enjoyed a hearty lunch at Dongjin Restaurant, where three dishes cost just over 120 yuan—flavorful, generous portions, and great value. With that, our two-day Xuancheng adventure came to a close, leaving us with hearts full of joy and contentment. The landscapes, hospitality, and cuisine have become cherished memories, and we can’t wait to return for more discoveries!