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Tourists take bamboo rafts on the Jiaxi stream at the Shibawo tourist spot. Photo: Chen Xiaoru/GT and CFP

Not many people have heard of the canyon of central Zhejiang Province. It's certainly not as well-known as the canyon of west Zhejiang. But this newly developed tourist destination is a veritable panoply of geographic wonders just waiting to be explored.

Located in Pan'an county, Zhejiang Province, the canyon of central Zhejiang is four hours by bus from Shanghai, making a perfect choice for short break from the city.

To get there, you can take a long distance bus from Shanghai South Long-distance Coach Station which goes directly to Pan'an. The price is 110 yuan ($17), one way. Another convenient way is to apply for a place in a "group trip" arranged by a travel agency. This usually costs around 600 yuan for a weekend trip and the price includes meals, hotels, buses, and entrance fees to attractions.

I applied for a three-day trip at a travel agency at a cost of 590 yuan. This included accommodation at a family hotel near the scenic spot of Shibawo. For people traveling by themselves, the price of a one-night stay at similar family hotels is between 60 yuan and 100 yuan. But be mindful that there are not many large hotel options in the area.