Shimenxia: Ten Gates Gorge – Sword Gate
十门峡 (Shimenxia) – "Ten Gates Gorge" – is one of the most spectacular natural sites in Zhejiang Province. Its crown jewel is Jianmen (剑门), or "Sword Gate": two giant stone pillars over 100 meters high, with a gap of only 7 meters between them. They look as if a giant sword had split the mountain in two. No wonder they are called "华夏第一门" – "China's First Gate".
Majestic cliffs, a waterfall cascade ("Eighteen Dragon Pools"), pristine forest with centuries-old trees, and panoramic views – there is something for everyone here. And for film buffs: scenes for "A Chinese Ghost Story" and "The Sword and Butterfly" were filmed right here. An ideal destination for those seeking untouched nature, the power of rock and water, and a touch of cinematic legend.
Shimenxia Highlights
What to expect
- Departure from Shanghai (06:30) – meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, ~3.5–4 hours (280 km) to Shimenxia Gorge. Rest stop en route.
- Arrival at Jianmen (~10:30) – ticket purchase, briefing, start of the tour to the "Sword Gate".
- Climb to the stone gates (10:30–12:00) – walk along equipped stairs, view the giant cliffs, photos at "China's First Gate".
- Waterfalls and forest walk (12:00–13:30) – visit the "Eighteen Dragon Pools" cascade, stroll through the pristine forest.
- Lunch at a local restaurant (13:30–14:30) – village cuisine, including famous tofu and local fish.
- Free time and return (14:30–16:00) – more photos, souvenirs, then departure for Shanghai.
- Arrival in Shanghai (~20:00) – approximate drop-off at Xinzhuang metro station.
Sample itinerary (1 day)
*The route may be adjusted due to weather or traffic.
| Time | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 06:30 | Departure from Shanghai (Xinzhuang metro) | 280 km, ~3.5–4 hours, one 15-min stop. |
| 10:00 | Stop at roadside cafe | Restroom, snack. |
| 10:30 | Arrival at Shimenxia Park (Jianmen) | Restroom, ticket purchase (included in package). |
| 10:30–12:00 | Sword Gate and climb to the cliffs | Walk along stairs, views of stone columns, observation decks. |
| 12:00–13:30 | Waterfalls and forest | "Eighteen Dragon Pools" cascade, stroll through pristine forest. |
| 13:30–14:30 | Lunch | Restaurant at the park entrance, local cuisine. |
| 14:30–16:00 | Free time, photos | Additional viewpoints, souvenirs, rest. |
| 16:00 | Gather and depart for Shanghai | Return journey with one stop. |
| ~20:00 | Arrival in Shanghai | Drop-off at Xinzhuang metro station. |
💡 Important notes:
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes – trails can be slippery.
- Bring a raincoat – it's humid near the waterfalls, light rain possible.
- Passport, cash in yuan (tickets paid in cash), water, snacks.
- There is a hotel inside the park if you wish to stay overnight (we can arrange it).
Price & conditions
Tour price
Train + taxi
Economy / fastGuide meets you at Hangzhou or Lin'an station, transfer to the park and back, full escort. Train tickets paid separately.
By car
SedanGuide services, transfer from Shanghai, ticket assistance.
Additional expenses (per person)
- Shimenxia Park entrance ticket128¥ (~$18)
- Jianmen zone entrance45¥ (~$6)
- Lunch (set menu)50¥ (~$7)
- Train tickets (round trip, 2nd class)~350¥ (~$50)
Duration
Extra services
What else to see nearby
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 (tickets are purchased in advance). In case of extreme weather (typhoon, heavy rain), the tour is rescheduled or the full amount is refunded. Comfortable clothing and shoes for uneven terrain are recommended.
