Jiulong Lake (九龍湖) and Ningbo Waterfalls
Nine Dragons Lake (Jiulonghu) is a large natural resort in the Zhenhai district of Ningbo, famous for its scenic lake, cascade waterfalls and ancient temple. The main natural area “Jiulongyuan” is the source of the lake and includes four main waterfalls, the highest of which is the Heavenly Dragon Waterfall (35 m). The complex harmoniously combines opportunities for outdoor activities with a cultural visit to the Xiangshan Temple, whose history dates back to the Tang dynasty. This tour from Shanghai will allow you to enjoy fresh mountain air, take a walk along equipped trails by the waterfalls, go on a boat trip on the lake and, if desired, visit Monkey Island.
Attractions
What awaits you
- Walk through the Jiulongyuan waterfall zone (九龙源景区). Start your journey by visiting the nature reserve, which is the source of the lake. Follow the equipped trail (about 2.5 km) to see four main waterfalls: Heavenly Dragon Waterfall (35 m), Double Dragon Waterfall, Exquisite Waterfall and the seasonal Waterfall of Mutual Longing. Along the way you can also see the “heavenly pools” — Shangyaochi and Xiayaochi.
- Visit to Xiangshan Temple (香山教寺). An ancient Buddhist temple founded in 755 AD and restored in 2002. The temple is built in tiers on the mountainside in the Tang dynasty style and is famous for its peaceful atmosphere. Be sure to see the Liberation Pond and the statue of Guanyin Vairochana.
- Boat trip on the lake. Descend to the pier on the shore of Jiulong Lake and take a boat trip. From the water you can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, forest and resort area. If desired, you can include a visit to Monkey Island (猴岛), where wild macaques live.
- Free time and lunch. End the route with free time for relaxation, photography or a leisurely walk along the embankment. There are cafes and restaurants in the resort area where you can try local cuisine.
Approximate tour program
*Times may be adjusted depending on traffic and the group’s pace.
| Time | Program stage | Details & transport |
|---|---|---|
| 08:00 | Meeting and departure from Shanghai | Meet at a convenient place, board the car. Drive 2–2.5 hours. |
| 10:30 | Arrival at the Jiulongyuan waterfall zone | Ticket purchase, start of the walk along the trail (2.5 km). |
| 10:30–12:00 | Sightseeing of waterfalls and heavenly pools | Photo session, rest by the water. |
| 12:00–13:00 | Visit to Xiangshan Temple | Explore the temple complex, Liberation Pond, Guanyin statue. |
| 13:00–14:00 | Lunch | At a cafe in the resort area (optional). |
| 14:00–15:00 | Boat trip on the lake | Boat, visit to Monkey Island (optional). |
| 15:00–16:00 | Free time | Walk along the embankment, souvenirs. |
| 16:00–18:30 | Return transfer | Departure from Ningbo, arrival in Shanghai around 18:30–19:00. |
💡 Important notes:
- Entrance tickets are paid separately: waterfalls – 35¥, combined ticket – 60-100¥.
- Comfortable shoes are a must – the trails can be wet.
- Bring water and a light snack.
- Camera – every corner is worth a picture.
Cost and conditions
Tour cost
Train + taxi
EconomyTrain + taxi. Guide services, help with tickets, accompaniment.
By car
ComfortDoor‑to‑door by car. Guide services + transfer from Shanghai and back.
Additional expenses
Duration
Additional services
What else can you visit
(慈城古县城) Well‑preserved Tang and Song era town, ancient temples, museums. ~20 km.
(阿育王寺) One of the most important Buddhist temples in China, founded in 282 AD. ~15 km.
(雪窦山) Waterfalls, giant Maitreya statue and temple. ~40 km.
Frequently asked questions
Important information
The indicated prices are valid at the time of offer for private individuals. The cost and availability of vehicles, interpreter and guide services may change.
Booking services is made only after receiving a prepayment. The conversion rate is calculated at the current exchange rate of the Central Bank on the payment date.
If cancellation occurs less than 48 hours before the start of the event, the payment is non‑refundable.
In the event of force majeure that makes the execution of the tour program fully or partially impossible (national holidays, official events, weather conditions, etc.), the organizer reserves the right to make changes to the program and its duration, or to reschedule the tour to another date.
The basic cost of services does not include and is paid separately: entrance tickets to the park, tickets for attractions, meals, personal expenses and other services indicated in the “Additional expenses” section.
🏞️ Logistics and secrets of Jiulong Lake for guide only
How to get there, buy tickets, best photo spots and practical tips.
The name “Lake of the Nine Dragons” comes from a legend about nine dragons that, according to tradition, lived in these waters and guarded the surrounding lands. Xiangshan Temple was founded during the Tang dynasty by Emperor Xuanzong. Stone reliefs from the Southern Song era depicting Buddhist saints have been preserved here.
- Car: from Shanghai via G60 to Hangzhou, then G92 to Ningbo. Take the Zhenhai exit, then follow signs. GPS coordinates: 29.8793° N, 121.5440° E.
- Train + taxi: from Hongqiao station to Ningbo station (about 2 hours), then taxi to the lake (about 40 min).
- Parking: paid parking at the entrance to the waterfall zone (10¥/hour).
- Opening hours: 08:00–17:00 (daily).
- Jiulongyuan waterfall area: 35¥ (adult).
- Combined ticket (lake + boat + island): 60–100¥ depending on the season.
- Monkey Island: included in the combined ticket.
- Boat pier: operates until 16:30.
- Heavenly Dragon Waterfall: the highest (35 m), best shot from the bottom.
- Heavenly Pools: two reservoirs at the top of the trail, great spot for a picnic.
- Guanyin Statue: behind Xiangshan Temple, on a hill.
- Observation deck on the lake: view of the island and mountains.
- Best time for photos: morning before 10:00 (sun lights the waterfalls) or after 15:00 (soft light).
- Footwear: definitely non‑slip – the trails can be wet.
- Food: there are several cafes on site, but prices are higher. You can bring a snack.
- Toilets: clean, available at the entrance and near each major point.
- Monkeys: on the island they are wild, do not feed them by hand – they may bite.
📍 Where to use: legends – at the entrance; route – for orientation; notes – in tricky situations.