Dongtianmushan: Eastern Pearl of Tianmu
Dongtianmushan (东天目山) — the eastern part of the famous Tianmu mountain range, lesser known but no less picturesque than the western side. Just 3.5 hours from Shanghai, you'll find the ancient Zhaojiao Temple (昭明寺), founded during the Tang Dynasty (over 1300 years ago), the Xiqinglong cascading waterfalls, virgin forests, and bamboo groves. No crowds — just nature, silence, and serenity.
The route includes a walk along scenic trails with views of the mountain range, a visit to the ancient Buddhist temple hidden in the mountains, and viewing the cascading waterfalls that burst straight from the cliffs. This is the perfect place for those seeking solitude and a connection with ancient culture.
Sights of Dongtianmushan
What awaits you
- Departure from Shanghai (07:00) — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, ~3.5 hour drive (230 km) with one stop.
- Arrival at Dongtianmushan (~10:30) — ticket purchase, restroom, briefing by the guide.
- Ascent to Zhaojiao Temple (10:45–12:00) — walk along a scenic trail, visit the ancient temple (Tang Dynasty), learn its history.
- Xiqinglong Waterfalls (12:00–13:00) — viewing the cascading waterfalls, photo session.
- Lunch (13:00–14:00) — traditional Chinese lunch at a restaurant at the foot of the mountain (local cuisine).
- Walk along the panoramic trail (14:00–15:30) — a leisurely walk through the forest, bamboo groves, viewing platforms.
- Return to Shanghai (15:30–19:00) — estimated arrival at Xinzhuang metro station around 19:00.
Sample tour itinerary (1 day)
| Time | Program Stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | Departure from Shanghai (Xinzhuang metro). 230 km, ~3.5 hours, one 15-min stop. | |
| DAY 1 — Eastern Tianmu Mountain | ||
| 10:30 | Arrival at Dongtianmushan Park | Restroom, ticket purchase (included in economy package). |
| 10:45–12:00 | Zhaojiao Temple | Ascent along a scenic trail, visit the ancient temple (Tang Dynasty). History exploration, panoramic views. |
| 12:00–13:00 | Xiqinglong Waterfalls | Cascading waterfalls bursting from the rocks. Photo session, rest by the water. |
| 13:00–14:00 | Lunch | Restaurant at the foot of the mountain. Local dishes, rice, vegetables, tea. |
| 14:00–15:30 | Panoramic trail and forest | Walk along a scenic trail through virgin forests and bamboo groves. Viewing platforms with mountain range vistas. |
| 15:30 | Gather and depart for Shanghai | Estimated 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 and a light jacket (cooler in the mountains).
- Passport, cash in yuan (cards not accepted everywhere), water, snacks, camera.
- Dongtianmushan is an ideal place for seclusion, meditation, and enjoying nature.
- Zhaojiao Temple is an active Buddhist temple — please keep quiet and respect local customs.
Price and conditions
Tour cost
Train + taxi
EconomyGuide meets you at the entrance, helps with tickets. Transfer to the station on your own.
By car
ComfortGuide services, transfer from Shanghai by sedan/minivan.
Additional expenses per person
- Entrance ticket to Dongtianmushan Park80¥ (~$11)
- Electric car (to the temple, optional)30¥ (~$4)
- Lunch at the restaurant50¥ (~$7)
- Train ticket Shanghai–Lin'an (round trip, 2nd class)~200¥ (~$28)
- Taxi from station to park (round trip, per group)~50¥ (~$7)
Duration
Additional services
What else to visit nearby
(西天目山)20 km
(安吉竹海)40 km
(九龙瀑布)15 km
Frequently Asked Questions
Important information
Prices are valid for 2026. Booking requires a 100% prepayment (PayPal, card). Cancellation 48 hours in advance – full refund; less than 48 hours – 50% refund (train tickets are purchased in advance). The organizer reserves the right to change the program due to weather or force majeure.
