Jiuqu Stream in Wuyi Mountain, Fujian

Jiuqu Stream

Nine-Bend Creek (九曲溪) is the centerpiece of Mt. Wuyi. This river is aptly named, as it abruptly changes course nine times over its 8.5 square-kilometer region of the park. Two gorgeous waterfalls, known as the Green Dragon Waterfall and Phoenix Waterfall, are a particularly beautiful attraction. A few caves are located directly adjacent to the waterfalls, giving visitors an unparalleled view through the cascade of water.

Bamboo Rafting

The Nine-Bend Creek is flanked on either side by mountain peaks and stones of unusual shapes that are interwoven with various watercourses. Each bend forms a unique picturesque and poetic landscape and each landscape has its own name. There are bamboo rafts for visitors.

A ride on a bamboo raft is one of the best ways to start or conclude a trip to Wuyishan. The nine bends of the pristine stream — hence the name — run through some of the most iconic spots in the park. The two lead rafting guides, often in straw hats and traditional attire, are great at identifying mountains or pointing out the most photogenic spots — including rocks that resemble King Kong and the Sydney Opera House. If you understand Mandarin, it’s worth tipping the rafter RMB20 ($3) for a more detailed explanation. A raft seats five to six passengers. You’ll be teamed with other passengers if you’re in a group smaller than five. The ride lasts between 90 minutes to two hours and is mostly unsheltered so a hat and sunscreen are advised. Take off shoes to avoid getting them wet.

The Best Time to Visit Wuyi Mountain

June–October is the best time to visit Wuyi Mountain. It is open year round, but visitors can best enjoy the many wonders of nature during warm, dry days. Xiamen is subject to monsoon rains between June and September.  During this period, the plants glow well and river is fuller.

How to Get There

  • The nearby airport of Nanping Wuyishan gives visitors direct access to the town and park. Visitors can take a taxi from the airport to the city of Wuyishan, the distance being just 9 kilometers. Taxis charge 10 yuan for the first 5 km and then 2 yuan for every additional kilometer.
  • Several trains connect the park from the cities of Xiamen and Fuzhou, as well as G trains from Beijing and Shanghai.

Useful Travel Tips

  • A public bus operates inside the park (number 6), but most of the important sites are within walking distance of one another.
  • Whether you’re interested in hiking, boating, bird watching, tea estates, waterfalls, cultural heritage sites, or simply want to explore a beautiful, pollution-free part of China, the Wuyi Mountain range offers something for everyone.
  • The ticket price in the peak season (March to November) is reduced from 160 yuan to 140 yuan, and in the off season (December to February) is reduced from 160 yuan to 120 yuan (valid within 3 days)
  • Take bus Wuyishan No.5 to the south entrance station of the scenic spot, and walk there.
  • From March 1 to October 31 (summer), 06:30-18:00; from November 1 to February 29 (winter), 07:00-17:00; special: the garden is closed for half a day at 14:00 on Lunar New Year’s Eve, only open in the morning.

Recommended Wuyi Mountain Tour

Main Attractions in Fujian Province

Edited by  Lynette Fu/付云锐