Where to Go for Picnics in Enshi? Recommended Spots

As a major tributary of the Qingjiang River, Longdong River Scenic Area lies on the outskirts of Enshi. It boasts crystal-clear water, dense vegetation and a picturesque landscape, serving as an ideal natural retreat.

Located 2 kilometers in the southern suburbs of Enshi, it sits on the lower reaches of the Qingjiang River within urban Enshi and features the most typical Danxia landforms in the region. Though the 800-li Qingjiang River flows through Lichuan, Enshi and numerous villages along the way, the water here remains limpid and blue under a bright sky, with sound ecology and delightful scenery.

Situated in Longfeng Town of Enshi City, this place retains its original natural scenery with beautiful mountains and clear waters. It is a top choice for spring outings and draws many visitors on weekends.

Built on the Qingshui River in Longfengba Town, Enshi City, it is 11 kilometers away from the town center and accessible via village roads. Directions: Take the fork road opposite the Police Station of Longfengba Town onto Shuanglong Road and drive about 7.8 kilometers. Continue straight for another 1.8 kilometers, then keep right to reach the destination. You can drive your car right down to the riverside.

The village is 10 kilometers from downtown Enshi. Covering 4,500 mu, Dalongtan Scenic Area stretches 16 kilometers long and 200 to 300 meters wide. As a key water conservancy hub on the middle reaches of the Qingjiang River, it has abundant water resources and stunning natural views. The area features diverse landforms including canyons, Tuoni Stream, Longqiao River and Yasong Stream with a well-preserved ecological environment. The main waterway, flatlands, terraces and tributaries form a winding reservoir, holding great potential for tourism development.

Fed by mountain springs and melted snow water, the reservoir is free from industrial pollution. Only a small number of cage fish farms operate here currently. The river water is exceptionally clear with a visibility of over 3 meters. Boasting gorgeous scenery and fresh air, it is a perfect spot for fishing, leisure and picnics. A holiday resort is also located within the scenic area.

Located 40 kilometers from Enshi, Xicaoba covers nearly 2,000 mu. A small stream winds through the oval-shaped flatland, which is connected by paved rural roads. The shallow stream flows gently with a clear riverbed, and the area is filled with croaking frogs on summer nights. Remaining an unspoiled natural paradise hidden away from the crowds, it attracts a large number of tourists every year.

This village in Huangjindong Township, Xianfeng County, is honored as a model village for livability, tourism, featured industries, ecology, harmony and traditional culture. It is 4 kilometers from Huangjindong Town and roughly 50 kilometers from the urban areas of Xianfeng, Lichuan and Enshi. Situated at the starting point of China’s No.1 Underground River Rafting in Huangjindong Scenic Area, it is reputed as the last Shangri-La in central China. The village enjoys pleasant weather and breathtaking scenery. Houses are built along the mountains in a neat layout, and a century-old pagoda casts its reflection on the water, captivating every visitor.

This ancient village lies along the historic salt trade route and was once a settlement for the Hu migrant clan. As a well-preserved ancient community at the southern border of ancient Shizhou Prefecture, it features sound ecological civilization along small river valleys, possessing high value for ethnic and historical research as well as tourism development.

It is 45 kilometers from downtown Enshi. The stream originates from a natural cave and is a seasonal river belonging to the Malu River watershed. The grand courtyard complexes of the Hu family stand on both riverbanks.

In this mountainous valley, a string of connected flatlands are a rare sight. The village consists of three major courtyards (Upper Dam and Lower Dam), as well as scattered small homesteads including Heshaban, Chayu Fort, Sanqiutian, Liangzishang and Xiahe. Large courtyards nestle among bamboo groves and woods every one or two li apart, like pearls strung together. Fertile farmlands surround the residences, and green tea terraces spread across the hillsides. Stone stepping stones are used to cross the streams.

Nanlidu Village stands on the east bank of Nanlidu Bridge in Cuijiaba Town, Enshi City. The 18-kilometer-long Nanlidu River winds in an S-shape, dotted with underground rivers and caves. Steep cliffs and grotesque rock formations line both sides of the deep canyon, adding unique charm to the local traditional dwellings.