Xiajian River in Hechi, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, has been listed as one of the 10 most beautiful rivers in China, due to its mysterious beauty and well-preserved environment.

The rating was part of an education campaign initiated by China's Ministry of Water Resources in September 2016, to improve public awareness of the need to protect water resources.

Xiajian River in Hechi, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, reveals its mysterious beauty in the early morning when mists shroud the scene. [Photo/Hechi Daily]

Experts from the Ministry will visit the listed rivers in February to inspect the river environment and water quality before deciding on the final list.

As the only listed river in Guangxi, Xiajian River is well known for its crystal water flowing through green mountains. Stretching 151 kilometers and with drainage of 1,584 square kilometers, the river is more than 100 meters wide at some points. It reaches a depth of 10.55 meters, and changes into the Longjiang River in Guizhou before finally emptying into the Pearl River Delta.

A wonderful view of the green hills and bamboo forests along the banks of Xiajian River in Hechi. [Photo/Hechi Daily]

Xiajian River is also famous as the birthplace of Liu Sanjie, a famous folk singer, and was the location for the shooting of a film based on Liu's life.

With clean banks, Xiajian River is a large natural swimming pool for tourists. [Photo/Hechi Daily]