Xishui National Forest Park Xishui National Forest Park is located in Shangganling District of Yichun City (now merged into Youhao District). Compared with other Yichun scenic spots I have visited

Xishui National Forest Park

Xishui National Forest Park is located in Shangganling District of Yichun City (now merged into Youhao District). Compared with other Yichun scenic spots I have visited, its features are: first, it has more original red pines with longer tree ages; second, there is more interaction with cute animals—there are more and bolder chipmunks in the park, and near the entrance of the scenic area, there is a deer park and a cute pet ranch; third, there is a stream in the forest where you can hike along the stream in the primeval forest.

Visiting Xishui Park is very simple, with only one route.

Take the sightseeing bus at the visitor center, which goes directly to the entrance of the Lesser Khingan Natural Timber Garden. From there, climb the steps; both sides of the mountain road are lined with tall and precious trees, mainly red pines. The vegetation here is well protected, with tall and upright red pines piercing the clouds. According to local friends traveling with me, red pines of this scale in the Lesser Khingan Mountains have an average age of over 400 years. Fallen trees can be seen naturally lying in the forest; some have become playgrounds for small animals, while others have turned into fertilizer for new trees.

There are quite a few steps, so rest while walking. It takes about ten minutes to reach the mountain top. At the top, there is a three-story observation tower called Guantao Tower, which you can climb for free. From there, you can overlook the vast forest sea and listen to the rustling of pine waves. In autumn, this is an excellent spot to enjoy the colorful mountain scenery. For safety, only 10 people can be on the observation tower at the same time, and staff are present below to maintain order. Diagonally opposite the tower, there is a wooden cabin and a drum tower where you can freely beat the drum to pray for blessings.

Continuing forward is the downhill route, still with steps all the way. Halfway down the mountain, there is a Zhongyun Pavilion where you can also ring the bell for free. Near the foot of the mountain is a popular photo spot where many tour groups take pictures. Friends who are not keen on taking photos can skip this and continue downhill. After two or three minutes, you will see Baiqin Stream in Xishui Park, from which the park gets its name.

The road forks here. Crossing the small bridge over the stream, after about 100 meters, you will reach the sightseeing bus station to take the bus back to the visitor center. For those still interested and energetic, you can walk along the wooden plank road beside Baiqin Stream and head toward the scenic area exit.

This is the normal visiting route, but some people choose to go in reverse. Tour groups usually do not climb the mountain; after taking photos at the photo spot, they quickly gather. You can choose the route according to your actual situation.

During my few days in Yichun, I encountered the most chipmunks in Xishui Park. Visitors can bring more peanuts and sunflower seeds to feed them moderately, while keeping a safe distance to avoid accidental harm.

Post by CHRIS WARREN | Oct 26, 2025