Shenlixia: Gorge with Waterfall and Cave
Shenlixia (神丽峡) — "Magic Gorge", a hidden gem of Zhejiang province. Just 3.5 hours from Shanghai you will find a 50-metre Zhuyun Waterfall, a cave behind the water curtain and a 3-kilometre ancient merchant trail from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Plus – unexpected copies of hobbit houses and a turquoise lake where you can ride a bamboo raft.
Main attractions: Zhuyun Waterfall (朱云瀑布), behind which hides the Water Curtain Cave; Emerald Lake (翡翠湖) with crystal clear water; the ancient "Shili Pavilion" station on the old trail; and two exact copies of hobbit holes for unforgettable photos. The best time is spring and autumn, when the waterfalls are full and the greenery is especially vivid.
Magic of Water and Stone
What to expect
- Departure from Shanghai (07:00) — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, road ~3–3.5 hours (300 km) with one stop.
- Arrival at Shenlixia (~10:30) — ticket purchase, restroom, briefing by the guide.
- Walk to the waterfall (10:45–11:30) — viewing the 50-metre Zhuyun Waterfall, passing through the Water Curtain Cave.
- Ancient Merchant Trail (11:30–12:30) — 3‑kilometre walk along the stone road from the Ming and Qing dynasties, stop at the restored "Shili Pavilion" station.
- Lunch (12:30–13:30) — traditional Chinese lunch at a restaurant at the foot of the mountain (local dishes).
- Emerald Lake and hobbit holes (13:30–15:00) — bamboo raft ride (optional), photo session at the hobbit houses, visit to the Ming-era temple.
- Return to Shanghai (15:30–19:00) — approximate arrival at Xinzhuang metro station around 19:00.
Sample tour itinerary (1 day)
*A train option is also possible: Shanghai–Pujiang (浦江) + taxi to the canyon (~20 minutes).
| Time | Program stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | Departure from Shanghai (Xinzhuang metro) | Road 300 km, ~3.5 hours, one 15‑min stop. |
| 10:30 | Arrival at Shenlixia scenic area | Restroom, ticket purchase (included in economy package). |
| 10:45–11:30 | Zhuyun Waterfall and Water Curtain Cave | View the 50‑metre cascade, walk behind the water curtain (splashes – bring a raincoat). |
| 11:30–12:30 | Ancient Merchant Trail (古驿道) | 3 km along stone paving, visit the "Shili Pavilion" station, scenic canyon views. |
| 12:30–13:30 | Lunch | Restaurant at the foot of the mountain. Dishes: Pujiang duck, rice, vegetables, tea. |
| 13:30–15:00 | Emerald Lake and hobbit houses | Bamboo raft ride (optional, 30¥), photos at the hobbit house replicas, visit to the Ming-era temple (敦睦堂). |
| 15:30 | Meeting and departure to Shanghai | Estimated departure time. |
| ~19:00 | Arrival in Shanghai | Drop‑off at Xinzhuang metro station. (Time may vary due to traffic.) |
💡 Important notes:
- The cave behind the waterfall is damp and slippery – wear non‑slip shoes.
- Bring a raincoat or quick‑dry jacket (splashes from the waterfall).
- Comfortable footwear (paths are paved but there are stairs).
- Passport, cash (RMB – cards are not accepted everywhere), water, camera.
- The tour is suitable for all ages – no steep climbs.
Cost 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.
Extra costs per person
- Entrance ticket to Shenlixia park90¥ (~13$)
- Bamboo raft on the lake (optional)30¥ (~4$)
- Lunch at a restaurant60¥ (~8$)
- Train ticket Shanghai–Pujiang (round trip, 2nd class)~220¥ (~31$)
- Taxi from station to park (round trip, per group)~60¥ (~8$)
Duration
Additional services
What else can be visited
Frequently asked questions
Important information
Prices valid for 2026. Booking requires 100% prepayment (PayPal, card). Cancellation 48 hours in advance – full refund, less than 48 hours – 50% refund (train tickets are bought in advance). The organiser reserves the right to change the programme due to weather or force majeure.
