1. Home
  2. Liupanshui Travel Guide
  3. Liupanshui Attractions
  4. Yushe Forest Park

Subtitle: A Verdant Sanctuary in Western Guizhou: Exploring Yueshe National Forest Park

Introduction Nestled in the southern part of Shuicheng County, Liupanshui City, Yueshe National Forest Park stands as a premier natural retreat in Guizhou Province. Approximately 30 kilometers from the urban center of Liupanshui, this park holds the distinction of being the region's sole national forest park. Encompassing a vast total area of 33.5 square kilometers (approximately 50,314 Chinese mu), with a currently planned and developed core area of 8 square kilometers (12,000 mu), the park offers a significant expanse of wilderness to explore. Officially established as a provincial forest park in March 2001 with approval from the Guizhou Forestry Department, Yueshe has since developed into a destination with established infrastructure and visitor reception capabilities, seamlessly blending conservation with accessible ecotourism.

The park's paramount appeal lies in its profound biodiversity and pristine ecosystems. It serves as a crucial sanctuary for a wide array of flora and fauna, many of which are under state protection. This rich natural endowment transforms a visit from a simple stroll into an immersive journey through a living, breathing botanical and zoological haven.

Flora: A Botanical Treasure Trove The forest canopy of Yueshe is a tapestry woven with both common and exceptionally rare species. The park takes great pride in its population of protected plants, which form the green heart of its conservation efforts.

  • Protected Giants and Rare Blooms: Among its most celebrated residents are national first-class protected plants such as the dove tree (Davidia involucrata), known for its stunning, handkerchief-like white bracts, and the precious Chinese yew (Taxus chinensis). A more recent and significant discovery has further elevated the park's botanical importance: a vast, contiguous grove of Orthodon species (a genus including plants like Mosla), a national second-class protected plant, covering an impressive area of about 2.67 square kilometers (4,000 mu). This large, concentrated population makes it a site of special scientific interest.
  • The Forest Ecosystem: Beyond these stars, the park's dense forests comprise a diverse mix of evergreen broadleaf trees, conifers, and lush undergrowth, creating a complex, multi-layered habitat. The air is fresh and fragrant, often filled with the scent of pine and damp earth, while the play of light through the dense foliage creates a constantly changing visual spectacle on the forest floor.

Fauna: Encounters in the Wild The rich plant life naturally supports an equally diverse animal community. Yueshe National Forest Park provides a safe habitat for several elusive and beautiful creatures, offering visitors the chance to learn about and, with patience and luck, potentially catch a glimpse of China's wild heritage.

  • Avian Wonders: The forest understory and clearings are sometimes graced by the dazzling presence of pheasants. The park is home to both the golden pheasant (Chrysolophus pictus), with its fiery golden cape and red body, and the lady amherst's pheasant (Chrysolophus amherstiae), adorned in elegant white, black, and metallic green plumage. Their occasional sightings are memorable highlights for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
  • Mammals of the Underbrush: Quiet observers might learn of the presence of mammals such as the white fox, a creature of local folklore, and the Chinese forest musk deer (Moschus berezovskii), or香獐 (xiāng zhāng), known for its shy nature. These animals are integral to the forest's ecological balance, though their secretive habits make them a rare sight, adding an element of mystery to every hike.

Practical Visitor Information

1. Location & Transportation Yueshe National Forest Park is situated about 30 km south of downtown Liupanshui City. Visitors can reach Liupanshui via train or long-distance bus, as the city is a transportation hub in western Guizhou. From the city, the most convenient way to access the park is by hiring a private taxi or arranging for a dedicated car service. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour by road, winding into the more elevated and forested landscapes of Shuicheng County. While public bus options may exist, their schedules and routes can be infrequent, making private transport the recommended choice for a flexible and efficient trip.

2. Admission Fees and Opening Hours * Ticket Price: The entrance fee to the park is very accessible, priced at 15 RMB per person. This fee contributes to the maintenance and conservation efforts within the park. * Operating Schedule: The park is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The last admission is at 6:00 PM, and visitors are expected to begin concluding their visits at this time. This schedule is consistent throughout the year, from January 1st to December 31st. It is advisable to arrive with sufficient time to enjoy a full experience, especially considering the park's size.

3. Suggested Visit Duration To comfortably explore the main trails, appreciate the scenery, and visit key points of interest within the developed area of the park, a minimum of 3 to 4 hours is recommended. For visitors wishing to embark on longer hikes, engage in photography, or simply immerse themselves more deeply in the tranquil environment, allocating half a day or even a full day would be ideal. The cool, fresh climate, especially welcome in summer, invites leisurely exploration.

4. Experience and Activities A visit to Yueshe is primarily centered on nature immersion. Well-marked hiking trails of varying difficulty wind through the forests, leading to scenic viewpoints, quiet streams, and through the habitats of its unique biodiversity. It is a perfect destination for: * Hiking and Walking: Enjoy the well-preserved trails for exercise and forest bathing. * Nature Photography: Capture the diverse plant life, forest landscapes, and potentially wildlife. * Botanical and Wildlife Observation: Study the unique flora, including the protected species zones. * Picnicking: Relax in designated areas amidst the serene natural surroundings. * Escape from the Heat: Given its elevation and forest cover, the park offers a pleasantly cool retreat during the summer months.

The park's current infrastructure supports these activities with basic amenities, ensuring a comfortable visit while prioritizing the preservation of its natural state. A trip to Yueshe National Forest Park is ultimately an opportunity to disconnect from urban life and reconnect with the quiet majesty of one of Guizhou's protected forest ecosystems.