Iconic 20-yuan landscape goes zero-carbon

Silence on the water

The most immediate shift is on the river itself. Between 2023 and 2024, the scenic area completed a massive project converting all 1,000 of its sightseeing rafts, including 500 at two key wharves in Xingping, from gasoline to electric power.

The transition cut noise levels from a deafening 120 decibels to a quiet 60 decibels, while drastically improving safety and maneuverability for operators.

"In the past, gasoline engines produced loud noise and black smoke, and fuel leaks threatened the river," said Mo Jianbin, who has operated rafts at Chaobanshan Wharf for 14 years. "Now, the electric rafts have reverse gear, making docking and navigation much safer."

The environmental gains have come with economic benefits. Gasoline-powered rafts previously incurred fuel costs of up to 1.5 yuan (22 cents) per kilometer, borne by the operators themselves. Now, the energy cost for each raft has dropped to 0.5 yuan per kilometer — and it is covered by the Lijiang River Scenic Area's management company, Mo said.

With a better visitor experience and more tourists, Mo added his annual income has increased from 30,000 yuan to over 60,000 yuan.