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Inside Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province, China
The gallery of mountains and waterways
Golden Whip Stream Scenic Area is a golden tourist area in Zhangjiajie with a total length of 5,700 meters. Located in the east of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, named after the 380-meter high Golden Whip Rock, Golden Whip Stream meanders 7.5 kilometers. Flowing from Laomo Gully first to Confluence of Four Rivers then to Suoxi Stream, it finally joins Li river, one of the four rivers in Hunan Province. It flows between steep grotesque peaks and luxuriant trees. Here, the meandering streams, the crystal-clear waterfalls, exotic plants and rare animals co-exist and constitute the extraordinarily beautiful, tranquil and natural ecological environment. No wonder it is called "the most beautiful valley in the world" and "the most poetic stream". The major scenic spots include Rock of Welcoming Guests, Golden Whip Rock, Reunion Rock and the Purple Grass Pond.
Golden Whip Stream (Jinbian Stream) is famous for its pristine water, its verdant mountains, its steep cliffs and its serene valley. As a veritable “paradise” for plants, its pathways are adorned by an abundance of flowers, trees, and grasses. And it is also a kingdom of animals. Golden Whip Stream is named after Golden Whip Crag, its landmark spot, and runs from Laomo Bay to Shui Rao Si Men(water-surrounded gates).
【Golden Whip Crag 金鞭岩】
Golden Whip Rock is a representative among the countless strange rocks in Zhangjiajie. It stands between mountains. The marvelous shape is looked like the military arm whip, thus its name.
【Eagle Protecting Whip 神鹰护鞭】
On the left side of the Golden Whip Rock, there is a peak like an eagle. The head is high, the mouth is hooked, the double-winged fight, close to the golden whip rock, seems to be fighting with the enemy who invaded the golden whip, known as the Shenying Hubian.
【Fish Jumping Pool 跳鱼潭】
Fish Jumping Pool is a pool cause by the pulling stream. Stream flows from the higher place to the lower reach so that there is a pool made by the power of the water. During the spawning time, fish will swim to this pool and jump joyfully, thus its name.
【Wenxing Rock (Literature Star Rock) 文星岩】
There is a rock called Wenxing Rock which means a star in the literature field. Because this rock is looked like the figure of Lu Xun, a great litterateur in Chinese history, so people title this rock into Wenxing Rock.
【Yingbin Crag (Welcoming Crag) 迎宾岩】
This crag is looked like a person who is smiling to entertain visitors. And the cliffs between this crag just naturally shaped as a opening door. From this scene, visitors feel being entertained and waited by host.
【The Grave of Zhang Liang】
On the platform under Boliu Crag in the Golden Whip Stream is the Grave of Zhang Liang, who was the Marquis and the military counselor during the Western Han Dynasty (206 B.C- 25 A.D.).The legend goes that he lived as a hermit in Wulingyuan Scenic Spot after he had helped Liubang be the first emperor in the Western Han Dynasty (206 B.C- 25 A.D.) and he was buried here as well. Now the Grave of Zhang Liang becomes one of the most important culture relics in the Golden Whip Stream.
【Qianli xianghui 千里相会】
In the clusters of the southwest of the creek, the two peaks standing, just as the couple who have reunited for a long time are gazing at each other. Husband's body is sturdy, wearing a helmet and armor, with a long sword at the waist, comforting his wife. The wife is well-proportioned, with long hair, and her left hand is holding her husband's waist. Just like a couple who meet thousands of miles away after a long separation.
【Zhima Pagoda 止马塔】
Zhima Pagoda, also known as the water around the four gates, Tianzizhou, is the final stop of the Golden Whip Stream tour. It is said that it was the base camp of the ancient army to Wang Tianzi. Jinbian Stream, Longwei Stream, Nanmu Stream, and Kuangdong Stream meet here.
Golden Whip Stream is a very deep and quiet winding stream where can be seen many green hills and colorful flora and the song of birds can be heard. The 7 kilometer long stream is one of the most charming features of the scenery of Zhangjiajie. It has been called “The Most Beautiful Valley in the World.”
Classic Hiking Route:
Huangshizhai to Golden Whip Stream Route:
► 1. This area is cooler than the other part of Zhangjiajie because there are lots of trees to prevent heat from you. But it will make you feel cold sometimes, so it is better to take some long-sleeves shirts or coats.
► 2. If you plan to catch the most beautiful scene here, you can choose a fine day after the rain. The misty Zhangjiajie will lead you enter into a fairy land immediately.
► 3. Generally people travel in Jinbian Stream for 2.5-3 hours, along the way is the most beautiful boundary of Wulingyuan.
► 4. Bring only the essentials: a small backpack with water, snacks, tissues, sunscreen, and insect repellent. The trail is shaded but can be humid, so staying hydrated is important. Comfortable walking shoes with good grip are recommended as the path can get slippery after rain.
► 5. Along the way, keep an eye out for iconic rock formations like “Golden Whip Rock,” “Zhu Bajie Carries His Wife,” and “Condor Protecting the Whip.” There are signs in English and Chinese, and many photo spots are well-marked.
► 6. While the stream itself is a walking route, be aware of where to catch the shuttle buses at either end of the trail (usually at Shuiraosimen or at the entrance). If you’re short on time or energy, the shuttle system can help you connect efficiently to other parts of the park.
► 7. It’s important to note that there are no eco-shuttles, sightseeing trains, or any other internal transport options along the Jinbian Stream. You must walk the entire route on foot or hire a traditional sedan chair service at a high cost. This may be physically demanding for those who are not able to walk long distances, so plan accordingly.
► 8. There's no separate fee for Golden Whip Stream itself. You can purchase a Zhangjiajie National Forest Park ticket, which grants access to the entire park including Tianzi Mountain, Yuanjiajie, Yellow Dragon Cave, and Jinbian Stream (Golden Whip Stream). The current adult ticket price is around CNY 248.
Golden Whip Stream is home to a group of wild macaques, which are often seen in the gorge along the stream, especially around the entrance, the section from Fish Jumping Pool to Purple Grass Pond, and near the U-shaped valley. These monkeys are territorial and agile, and they may actively approach tourists to beg for or snatch food and belongings.
To avoid unwanted interactions, do not feed or tease the monkeys under any circumstances. Feeding may provoke aggressive behavior and increase the risk of being scratched or bitten.
Tips to Avoid Monkey Troubles:
What to Do If Surrounded by Monkeys:
If you find yourself surrounded or approached by a group of monkeys, stay calm. Slowly crouch down and retreat backward without making sudden movements or loud noises, which could trigger aggression. If bitten or scratched, seek immediate medical attention and a rabies vaccination.
Some areas along the trail feature designated monkey-watching platforms, where you can observe monkey behavior from a safe distance. It is advisable to travel in pairs or groups and follow park staff instructions when encountering monkeys.
Golden Whip Stream is suitable for tourism all year round, with clear water, fresh air, lush vegetation, beautiful and quiet environment, especially in spring and autumn. Flowers bloom in spring, the scenery is fascinating; The leaves turn yellow in autumn, it becomes a golden yellow world.
5 Days Zhangjiajie & Fenghuang Tour
Huangshi Village, Golden Whip Stream, Tianzi Mountain, Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, Tianmen Mountain, Fenghuang Ancient Town
From $ 438
From $ 410
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