Located in Laishui County, Baoding City of Hebei Province, Yesanpo Scenic Area is a renowned national 5A – level tourist spot, celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes and rich folk culture. Covering over 498 square kilometers, it’s a paradise for nature lovers, offering everything from towering canyons to mysterious karst caves and lush grasslands—all just a 3 – hour drive from Beijing.

Diverse Natural Landscapes

Yesanpo’s charm lies in its varied scenery, with four must – visit zones:

• Juma River Gorge: The “soul” of Yesanpo. The crystal – clear Juma River winds through the gorge, flanked by steep cliffs covered in green vegetation. In summer, rafting on the river (¥120 per person) is a top activity—you’ll navigate gentle rapids while enjoying the cool breeze and scenic views.
• Baicaopan Grassland: At an altitude of 1,983 meters, this alpine grassland is a summer escape from the heat. Covered in wildflowers from June to August, it’s perfect for picnics, horse riding (¥50 per hour), or simply lying back to admire the vast sky.
• Longmen Grottoes (Local Version): Unlike Luoyang’s famous grottoes, these are natural karst caves with stalactites and stalagmites shaped like animals and mythical figures. Guided tours (¥80 including ticket) explain the geological formation of these unique rock structures.
• Qingliang Gorge: Known for its waterfalls and cool temperatures (even in summer), the gorge has a 100 – meter – high waterfall that creates a misty atmosphere. Hiking the 2 – hour trail to the waterfall is rewarding, with wooden platforms along the way for rest and photo – taking.

Folk Culture & Local Experiences

Yesanpo is also home to the Tujia ethnic minority village. Here, you can watch traditional Tujia dances (performed every evening in summer), taste local dishes like “braised wild boar meat” (¥68) and “corn pancake” (¥8), and even stay in Tujia – style wooden houses (¥150–300 per night). The villagers are friendly and eager to share their customs, adding a cultural touch to your nature trip.

Practical Tips

• Best Time to Visit: May–October (summer for water activities, autumn for red leaves).
• Ticket: Most zones have separate tickets (¥50–120); a combined pass is available for ¥200.
• Transport: Take a bus from Beijing Liuliqiao Bus Station to Yesanpo (3 hours, ¥60) or drive (free parking at most scenic spots).
• Note: Wear non – slip shoes for hiking; bring a jacket for Baicaopan Grassland (temperatures drop at night).

Yesanpo Scenic Area blends breathtaking nature with rich culture, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a short vacation. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, it has something to offer every traveler.