Xinxian Baligou: A Journey to Encounter the Marvels of Mountains and Waters
“The benevolent delight in mountains, the wise delight in waters.” Always yearning for an intimate encounter with nature’s mountains and waters, this time, I embarked on a journey to Xinxian Baligou to explore the breathtaking hidden gem nestled in the Taihang Mountains.
Entering the Scenic Area: Meeting the Beauty of Nature
In the early morning, with sunlight warming my skin, I arrived at Baligou Scenic Area full of anticipation. Just passing through the entrance, the rolling high mountains came into view, towering into the clouds as if cleaved by a giant axe of nature, majestic and imposing. Walking along the winding path, the scenery on both sides was stunning. The old longevity deity carved on the stone tablet looked kindly and seemed to welcome every visitor; nearby, tall bamboo swayed gently in the breeze, rustling softly; beneath the bamboo, small flowers quietly lifted their faces as if smiling at me.
Continuing forward, I reached a small lake. The water was a deep blue, like a huge sapphire embedded in the earth. I couldn’t help but reach out to touch the water; the icy coolness instantly spread through my body, refreshing and invigorating. Tadpoles swam in groups across the lake, passing right by a vocal fountain. Standing beside it, I shouted “Ah~” loudly, and the fountain sprayed higher and higher in response to my voice, which was very amusing.
Exploring the Waterfalls: Feeling the Majestic Power
Following the path further, the roaring sound of a waterfall gradually grew louder. I quickened my pace, running toward the sound. Soon, I arrived at the waterfall. Walking over the top, the strong wind whipped the water into spray, and countless droplets hit my face like a natural shower.
The most breathtaking was the Tianhe Waterfall. It plunged from a peak over 100 meters high, misty and smoky, like a white dragon descending from the sky. Standing at the foot of the waterfall, I looked up to see the water rushing down fiercely, crashing against the rocks with a “boom boom” sound, sending water columns and countless splashes soaring meters high. It reminded me of the famous line by Tang poet Li Bai: “The waterfall cascades three thousand feet, as if the Milky Way is falling from the Ninth Heaven.” Sunlight passing through the mist formed a beautiful rainbow, and at that moment, I felt as if I were in a fairyland.
Below the waterfall was a magical Water Curtain Cave. The cave twisted and turned, stretching several hundred meters. Water flowed from the cave ceiling, forming a spectacular curtain of water—sometimes in beads, sometimes in lines or sheets. The sound of water alternated between thunderous and gentle. Inside the narrow cave, only two people could walk side by side, and we had to be careful of sudden stalactites. They hung like inverted bells overhead, stood tall like jade bamboo shoots on the side, or blossomed like stone flowers in front, dazzling the eyes.
Braving the One-Line Sky: Challenging My Limits
I had heard that One-Line Sky was very perilous. After seeing Tianhe Waterfall, I persuaded my family to climb it with me. Looking up at One-Line Sky, I saw towering stone walls on both sides with only a narrow crack in the middle—so high, so dangerous! Seeing such a daunting height, I hesitated, wondering if I could make it. But when I saw a little boy climbing ahead of me with determination, I thought, if even a small child dares to climb, I can too. So I gathered my courage and climbed up vigorously.
Soon, we reached the most dangerous section without chains. On the right was a stone wall; on the left, a canyon where one misstep could mean a fatal fall. I gripped the rock tightly, cautiously moving up step by step, my heart pounding with every move. My family encouraged me continuously, cheering me on. With their support, we overcame the difficulties and carefully passed that section, finally reaching the mountain top. Standing there, I overlooked the entire Baligou—endless mountain ranges, dense forests, and clear streams—all in view, filling me with a sense of achievement and joy.
Strolling Through the Sea of Flowers: Immersed in Fragrance
After descending from One-Line Sky, we arrived beside a sea of flowers. It was truly a kingdom of flowers, with various blossoms competing in beauty and fragrance. The queen of flowers, the rose, was vibrant—red like fire, pink like clouds, white like snow; the water fairy daffodils stood gracefully, emitting a faint fragrance; cute little white chrysanthemums clustered together, as if laughing and bustling with life. I strolled through the flower sea, feeling the floral scent and gentle breeze, as if in a dreamlike world.
Return Journey: Leaving with Beautiful Memories
As the sun set, we reluctantly left Baligou. This trip allowed me to appreciate the wonders and beauty of nature and experience the joy of challenging myself. The mountains, waters, waterfalls, flower seas, and steep peaks of Baligou left a deep impression on me, becoming a cherished memory in my heart.
“Mountains and waters have feelings; time remains peaceful.” Xinxian Baligou, this charming land, I will always remember your beauty. If I have the chance, I will definitely come again to experience your charm once more!
1. Scenic Area Overview
Location: Shangbali Town, Huixian City, Xinxiang, Henan Province.
Rating: National 5A-level Scenic Area, National Geopark, Taihang Macaque Nature Reserve.
Tags: Northern Water World, Soul of Taihang, centered on Tianhe Waterfall and Hongshi River, featuring majestic canyons and clear waters.
Opening Hours:
- Peak Season (April to October): 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM).
- Off Season (November to March): 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM).
2. Transportation Guide
Self-driving
Navigate to “Baligou Visitor Center”; about 2.5 hours (150 km) from Zhengzhou, about 1.5 hours from Xinxiang city center; large parking lot at the scenic area, 10 RMB/day; winding mountain roads, cautious driving recommended for beginners.
Public Transport
1. Xinxiang Bus Terminal → Baligou Special Line, about 1.5 hours, frequent departures;
2. High-speed rail to Xinxiang East Station, then taxi or transfer to bus to the bus terminal, then change to the special line.
3. Tickets and Scenic Area Transportation (Reference for 2026)
1. Tickets: Adults 90 RMB; students and seniors 60+ with valid ID half price; military personnel, disabled persons, etc. free with valid ID; follow the scenic area’s official WeChat for frequent holiday discounts;
2. Sightseeing Bus: Round trip 40 RMB (8 km total, recommended to save energy);
3. Optional Activities: Glass plank road, zipline, bamboo raft drifting, etc., pay as needed; Water Curtain Cave recommended to bring raincoat/waterproof bag.
4. Specialty Food
1. Stir-fried wild vegetables with eggs: fresh wild vegetables paired with native eggs, delicious and fragrant;
2. Xinxiang Red Braised Lamb: local specialty, tender meat with rich broth;
3. Taihang Mixed Grain Noodles: handmade, served with mountain pepper sauce, chewy and appetizing;
4. Inside the scenic area: mainly farmhouse dishes, prices slightly higher, recommend comparing two restaurants before ordering.