Dàquèmén · Great Stone Gate

Dàquèmén (大碏门瀑布) is a majestic waterfall hidden in the mountains of Zhejiang Province. It gets its name from two vertical cliffs that form giant "gates" — the water stream cascades between them from a height of approximately 80 meters. On sunny days, you can see a rainbow in the mist.

This place is a true oasis of wild nature: bamboo forests, ancient stone bridges, crystal-clear rivers, and centuries-old pines. Nearby is Língjué Temple, offering the best panoramic view of the waterfall. After the hike, you can swim in the natural pool at the base (during warm seasons) and taste local cuisine at a tea house.

💧Waterfall height ~80 m
⛰️Stone gate cliffs
🏯Ancient temple on the cliff
🍃Bamboo forests
🏊Lake swimming

Waterfall, Cliffs & Temple

What Awaits You

  • Departure from Shanghai (07:00) — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, ~5 hours drive (410 km) with a stop.
  • Arrival at scenic area (12:00) — lunch at the entrance restaurant, short briefing.
  • Trekking to the waterfall (13:00–14:30) — trail through bamboo grove (about 40 minutes).
  • Dàquèmén Waterfall (14:30–16:30) — viewing the stone gates, photos, swimming (summer).
  • Climb to Língjué Temple (16:30–18:00) — panoramic view of the waterfall and valley.
  • Dinner and overnight stay (19:00) — traditional guesthouse, vegetarian cuisine.
  • Second day morning (08:00–10:00) — tea ceremony, walk through tea terraces.
  • Visit to ancient village (10:30–12:30) — stone houses, craft workshops.
  • Lunch and return (13:00–18:30) — estimated arrival in Shanghai around 18:30.

Sample Tour Program (2 days / 1 night)

*Option available: Shanghai–Xinchang train + transfer to waterfall (50 minutes).

TimeProgram StageDetails
Day 1
07:00Departure from Shanghai (Xinzhuang metro)410 km drive, ~5 hours, one 20-min stop.
12:00Arrival, lunchRestaurant at park entrance (local cuisine).
13:00–14:30Trekking to the waterfallTrail through bamboo grove (about 1 km). Viewpoints along the way.
14:30–16:30Waterfall viewingPhotos at the stone gates, swimming in natural pool (summer).
16:30–18:00Língjué TempleClimb stone stairs to the temple on the cliff (15 minutes). Panoramic view.
19:00Dinner and overnightGuesthouse in the village, traditional vegetarian cuisine.
Day 2
08:00Breakfast, check-outRice porridge, local flatbreads, tea.
08:30–10:00Tea ceremony & terracesTour of tea plantations, green tea tasting.
10:30–12:30Ancient villageWalk through narrow streets, stone carving, traditional umbrella workshop.
12:30LunchBamboo and tofu dishes.
13:30Departure to ShanghaiApproximate time.
~18:30Arrival in ShanghaiDrop-off at Xinzhuang metro station. (Time depends on traffic).

💡 Important Notes:

  • Be sure to bring swimsuit and towel (if planning to swim).
  • Comfortable waterproof shoes, raincoat, warm sweater.
  • Passport, cash in yuan, water, camera.
  • The route is suitable for people of any fitness level (flat trail, railings available).

Price & Conditions

💰

Tour Price

Train + taxi

Economy

Guide meets at the entrance, ticket assistance. Transfer to station self-arranged.

$330per group of 1-3 people
Train tickets, entrance, accommodation – separate

By car

Comfort

Guide services, transfer from Shanghai by sedan/minivan, overnight stay.

$490per group of 1-3 people
Entrance, meals – separate
🎫

Additional Expenses per Person

  • Entrance ticket to scenic area120¥ (~$17)
  • Guesthouse accommodation (double room)180¥ (~$25)
  • Meals (lunch + dinner + breakfast + lunch)160¥ (~$22)
  • Shanghai–Xinchang train ticket (round trip, 2nd class)~280¥ (~$39)
*2026 prices, exchange rate approximate. Discount for children under 1.2m.
⏱️

Duration

2 days / 1 night
departure 07:00, return ~18:30 of second day

Additional Services

🚗
Minivan rental (5-7 people)
+$90
🏨
4* hotel in Xinchang (instead of guesthouse)
+$70
📷
Photoshoot at the waterfall
+$70
✈️
Shanghai airport transfer
+$100
📍

Nearby Attractions

🏞️ Xinchang Grand Canyon (新昌大峡谷) Picturesque gorge with suspension trails. (15 km)
🏘️ Meizhu Ancient Village (梅渚古村) Ming and Qing architecture, stone carved panels. (12 km)
🍵 "Dafo" Tea Factory (大佛龙井) Tea factory tour and tasting. (20 km)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it difficult to reach the waterfall?
No, a well-maintained trail with wooden boardwalks and railings leads to the waterfall. The route takes about 40 minutes at a leisurely pace.
What should I bring?
Comfortable waterproof shoes, raincoat (possible spray), warm sweater, passport, cash, water, camera.
Is it worth going?
Absolutely! This is one of the most scenic and less 'commercialized' waterfalls in the region. The unique stone gates and crystal-clear water will leave unforgettable impressions.
Can I swim?
Swimming is allowed in a designated area at the foot of the waterfall during warm seasons. The water is very clean but quite cool.
Are there cafes along the route?
There's a small kiosk with drinks and snacks at the start of the trail. Lunch is usually eaten at the entrance restaurant before or after the walk.
When is the best time to go?
The best time is during or right after the rainy season (June–August) when the waterfall is most powerful. Autumn offers beautiful forest colors.
⚠️

Important Information

Prices are valid for 2026. Booking requires 100% prepayment (PayPal, card). Cancellation 48 hours in advance – full refund, less than 48 hours – 50% refund (train tickets purchased in advance). The organizer reserves the right to modify the program due to weather conditions or force majeure.