Jinbian Brook Scenic Area
Located at the eastern part of the park, the Jinbian Brook's marvelous canyon is one of the world's most beautiful, and is a must-see for any visitor to Zhangjiajie. The brook is flanked by beautiful flowers and grasses and strolling along the brook, as birds chirp and the cicadas sing is a truly uplifting experience.
The Jinbian Brook Scenic Area is truly a new ecological tour itinerary worth exploring. The fresh air in Zhangjiajie is a worthy treasure. People always enjoy its fresh air, clear water and enchanting scenery. The water flows quietly eastward, and breezes waft the fragrance of flowers to visitors walking by the stream, in whose sunny waters fish swim freely. Its tranquility brings a sense of escape and of harmony with nature.
Jinbian Brook got its name from Jinbian Rock, a well-known scenic spot in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Rising sheer from the ground to the sky, the rock is steep with edges and corners on three sides, resembling the bian, an ancient Chinese iron weapon. According to local legend, this was the bian used by Emperor Qinshihuang, the first emperor of Qin Dynasty, to rule the mountains. The rock to its rear stands like a Buddha protecting this imperial weapon. Like many strangely shaped mountains and rocks in Zhangjiajie, it was formed by water erosion and gravitational force on sandstone. Opposite Jinbian Rock is a large stone resembling a lantern that hangs over the steep mountain tops called "Cutting the Mountain to Save Mother" because the shape of the rock and peaks remind local people of this old Chinese story.
Recommended spots here include: Sun Gate Reflection, Golden Whip Rock, Violet Grass Pool, and the Pool of Leaping Fishes.
The best time to see Jinbian Brook scenic area is after rainfall, when the water level rises and this dense forest is cool. You'd better bring warm clothes when visiting the brook.