The Ultimate Guide to Hekeng Difeng in Yongtai, Fuzhou!

Friends! I'm here to recommend an amazing hiking trail in Fuzhou—Hekeng Difeng! This is my personal No. 1 hiking spot in Fuzhou, an absolute must-visit for serious hikers. In terms of landforms and natural ecology, it's truly unique in the Fuzhou area! I visited during the dry season, but even then, it was incredibly impressive. The core area of the Difeng is about 1 km long, with cliffs on both sides that look as if they were carved by a giant axe. Several waterfalls cascade down, creating a scene straight out of a fairy tale. Lush greenery abounds—it's like Fuzhou's own "Emerald City"! What makes it so special? * **Unique Beauty**: Among all the hiking trails in Fuzhou, Hekeng Difeng's scenery is absolutely unique and unparalleled! * **Year-round Beauty**: Whether the water is abundant or scarce, there's always a different kind of beauty to be found here. * **Simple Path**: The path is straightforward with no forks, so there's practically no risk of getting lost. * **Rich Ecology**: The area is teeming with diverse flora and fauna, with a noticeably higher number of butterflies and insects than other trails. It's a natural ecological paradise. * **Best Time to Visit**: A sunny day after rainfall is the perfect time to visit Hekeng, as the water is plentiful and you might even see a rainbow waterfall! **But! Beauty coexists with risk!** * **Important Notice**: This trail is not suitable for beginners, those with a fear of heights, or children! I repeat, it's not suitable for beginners, those with a fear of heights, or children! * **Safety First**: Always wear a helmet to prevent head injuries from falls or falling rocks. * **Challenge Level**: There's one particularly dangerous narrow wall climb (located at the 50% mark of the trail) and two challenging rope climbs (at the 30% and 55% marks). Countless rocks need to be climbed or crossed, so gloves and knee pads are recommended. Pack light to make the journey easier. * **Weather Warning**: The difficulty of the stream trek increases with higher water levels. Never visit during heavy rain due to the risk of flash floods! The best time to explore is on a sunny day after it has rained. * **Plant Warning**: The valley contains numerous "Alocasia odora" plants, which belong to the Araceae family. Their sap is poisonous, so avoid touching them! * **Stay Warm**: The stream water is icy cold, so bring a change of clothes and shoes to change into after the stream trek to avoid catching a chill. **Route Guide** From the village, descend into the valley and begin the stream trek, which is about 6 km long and involves a gradual ascent. You'll need to hold onto iron chains on the rock face to pass the most dangerous section. After reaching the source of Hekeng, there are two uphill climbs. Finally, return to the village via a level canal road. **Practical Information** * **Parking**: Parking is available on the roadside in Yunling Village, Yongtai. * **Restrooms**: You can ask villagers if you can use their restrooms. * **Hiking Distance**: Approx. 10 km. * **Total Ascent**: Approx. 200–300 m. * **Difficulty**: 4 stars and above, adventure level. * **Recommended Gear**: Helmet (mandatory), long-sleeved shirt, shorts, gloves, stream trekking shoes or sandals, a change of clothes and socks, 1.5 L of drinking water, food, etc. A regular backpack is sufficient; a specific stream trekking pack is not necessary. Come and experience this thrilling and beautiful hike! You're sure to fall in love with Hekeng Difeng!