Donghai Lingyan: rock park with elevator to the sky
Donghai Lingyan (东海灵岩景区) is a unique rock park in Xiangshan County (Ningbo), often called the "Zhejiang Avatar." The main highlight is the 158-meter "Lingyan Tianti" elevator, which takes you to the summit in just 58 seconds. From there, you can see the flower-shaped Xingchenqiao Bridge floating above the clouds, the glass path, and the rare reverse-flow waterfall.
For adrenaline seekers — via ferrata, zipline over the gorge, high swings, and a speedy glass slide. The park is perfect for active outdoor recreation, just 3.5 hours from Shanghai.
Elevator 158 m / 58 sec
Flower bridge over clouds
Reverse-flow waterfall
Glass path
Extreme park (via ferrata, zipline)
Beauties of Donghai Lingyan
What awaits you
- Departure from Shanghai (06:30) — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, ~3.5 hours drive (280 km) to Xiangshan County, one stop.
- Arrival at Donghai Lingyan (~10:00) — restroom, briefing, ticket purchase.
- Ascending the "Lingyan Tianti" elevator (10:30) — 158 meters in 58 seconds. Viewing platform with panoramic views of mountains and sea.
- Walk across Xingchenqiao Bridge (11:00–12:00) — lattice bridge in the shape of a lotus flower over the abyss, best photo opportunities.
- Glass path and "Daolu Pubu" waterfall (12:00–13:00) — rare phenomenon: water jets rise upward due to wind.
- Lunch (13:00–14:15) — traditional Ningbo cuisine at the foot of the mountain (fresh fish, seafood, vegetables).
- Extreme park / free time (14:15–15:30) — via ferrata, zipline, cliff swings, high-speed tube slide (optional, at extra cost).
- Return to Shanghai (15:30–19:00) — estimated arrival at Xinzhuang metro station around 19:00.
Sample tour itinerary
*Option available: Shanghai–Ningbo train (2 hours) + taxi to the park (~1.5 hours).
| Time | Program Stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 06:30 | Departure from Shanghai (Xinzhuang metro) | 280 km drive, ~3.5 hours, one 15-min stop. |
| 10:00 | Arrival at Donghai Lingyan park | Restroom, purchase of combo tickets (included in economy package). |
| 10:30 | Ascending the "Lingyan Tianti" elevator | 158 m in 58 seconds. Viewing platform, views of mountains and East China Sea. |
| 11:00–12:00 | Xingchenqiao Bridge | Walk across the flower bridge, panoramic photos, feeling of "flying above the clouds". |
| 12:00–13:00 | Glass path and "Daolu Pubu" waterfall | Transparent walkway along the cliff, unique reverse-flow waterfall. |
| 13:00–14:15 | Lunch | Local cuisine restaurant. Dishes: braised fish, crabs, bamboo shoots, rice. |
| 14:15–15:30 | Free time / extreme park | Via ferrata, zipline, swings, high-speed tube slide (optional, at extra cost). |
| 15:30 | Meeting and departure for Shanghai | Approximate departure time. |
| ~19:00 | Arrival in Shanghai | Drop-off at Xinzhuang metro station. Time may vary due to traffic. |
💡 Important notes:
- Be sure to bring comfortable non-slip shoes – marble steps near the waterfall can be slippery.
- Raincoat or quick-dry jacket – the "reverse-flow" waterfall sprays in all directions.
- Passport, cash in yuan (cards not accepted everywhere, especially at small attractions), water, snack, camera.
- The tour is suitable for children aged 6 and above with supervision. Extreme attractions have height and weight restrictions.
Price and conditions
💰
Tour price
Train + taxi
EconomyGuide meets at the entrance, ticket assistance. Transfer to station self-arranged.
$350per group of 1-3 people
Train tickets, entrance, lunch – separate
By car
ComfortGuide services, transfer from Shanghai by sedan.
$390per group of 1-3 people
Entrance tickets, lunch – separate
🎫
Additional expenses per person (prices in yuan)
- Ticket "Entrance + swings + path + double tube + forest" (202¥)202¥ (~$28)
- Ticket "Entrance + swings + zipline + path + double tube + forest + glass" (222¥)222¥ (~$31)
- Ticket "Entrance + full extreme (including via ferrata)" (282¥)282¥ (~$39)
- Electric cart to entrance20¥ (~$3)
- Lunch at the foot of the mountain restaurant70¥ (~$10)
- Shanghai–Ningbo train ticket (round trip, 2nd class)~140¥ (~$20)
- Taxi Ningbo–park (round trip, per group)~200¥ (~$28)
⏱️
Duration
~12.5 hours
departure 06:30, return ~19:00
✨
Additional services
🚗
Minivan rental
+$90
🏨
Overnight stay (3*)
+$120
📷
Photo session
+$60
✈️
Shanghai airport transfer
+$100
📍
Nearby attractions
🏯 Shipu Ancient Town (石浦古城)
Coastal town with 600-year history, fishing streets, lighthouse. (25 km)
🏝️ Yuehua Island (岳华岛)
Small island with white sandy beaches, sea walks. (30 km)
🌊 Songlanshan Beach (松兰山海滨)
Popular sandy beach with waves, water activities. (35 km)
⛰️ Zhedao Mountain (浙东山)
Picturesque ridge with bamboo groves and temples. (20 km)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the climb difficult? Is there an elevator?
The park has the 158-meter 'Lingyan Tianti' elevator that takes you to the summit in 58 seconds. For those who want to climb on foot, there are stairs (about 800 steps). The elevator is included in the combo ticket.
What should I bring?
Comfortable non-slip shoes (marble steps can be slippery), raincoat or quick-dry jacket (spray near the waterfall), cash in yuan (small attractions may not accept cards), passport, camera, water and a light snack.
When is the best time to visit Donghai Lingyan?
The best period is April–June (full waterfalls, greenery) and September–October (golden autumn, clear skies). On weekdays, there are much shorter queues for the elevator and attractions.
Is photography allowed on the bridge and paths?
Yes, photos and videos are welcome. The best angles are from Xingchenqiao Bridge (top view) and the glass path (canyon panorama). For selfies with the waterfall, use a wide-angle lens.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 6 and above can participate. For younger children, there are gentle routes without extreme activities. The elevator and glass bridge are safe. Attractions (zipline, via ferrata) have height and weight restrictions.
Is it safe to swim near the waterfall?
Swimming is officially prohibited due to strong currents and cold water. However, you can dip your feet in the stream downstream in a designated area.
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 (e.g., elevator closure due to typhoon).
