Xinchang Danxia: red cliffs and waterfalls

Xinchang Danxia Geopark (新昌丹霞) is a unique red sandstone landscape in Zhejiang province, just 3 hours from Shanghai. Here you will see gorges with sheer terracotta‑colored walls, the 80‑meter ‘Jade Belt’ waterfall, and the natural ‘Thousand Buddhas’ rock – weathered forms resembling statues.

Main attractions: Shilijiang gorge (十里江) with a trail along the turquoise river; ‘Thousand Buddhas’ rock (千佛岩) – a natural phenomenon; ‘Jade Belt’ waterfall (玉带瀑) 80 m high; and a glass suspension bridge (玻璃吊桥) 268 meters long at a height of 100 m. Ideal for geology lovers, photography and leisurely nature walks.

🗻Red cliffs

💧80‑m waterfall

🙏Thousand Buddhas rock

🌉Glass bridge 268 m

🚶Shilijiang gorge

Red cliffs and water element

What to expect

Departure from Shanghai (07:00) — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, road ~3 hours (260 km) with one stop.
Arrival at Xinchang Danxia Geopark (~10:00) — restroom, ticket purchase (included in economy package), briefing by the guide.
Walk through Shilijiang gorge (10:30–12:00) — 2‑km trail along the river, admiring red cliffs, reaching the ‘Jade Belt’ waterfall.
‘Thousand Buddhas’ rock and glass bridge (12:00–13:30) — ascent along stairs (about 300 steps), viewing unusual rock forms, crossing the 268‑m glass bridge.
Lunch (13:30–14:30) — restaurant at the foot: local dishes (Xinchang‑style duck, bamboo shoots, rice).
Temple on the peak and free time (14:30–15:30) — visit to an ancient Ming‑dynasty temple, photo stops.
Return to Shanghai (15:30–18:30) — approximate arrival at Xinzhuang metro around 18:30.

Sample tour itinerary (1 day)

*A train option is also possible: Shanghai–Xinchang + taxi to the park (~20 minutes).

Time	Program stage	Details
07:00	Departure from Shanghai (Xinzhuang metro)	Road 260 km, ~3 hours, one 15‑min stop.
10:00	Arrival at Xinchang Danxia Geopark	Restroom, ticket purchase (included in economy package).
10:30–12:00	Shilijiang gorge and waterfall	Walk along the riverside trail (2 km), view the 80‑meter waterfall, photos.
12:00–13:30	‘Thousand Buddhas’ rock and glass bridge	Climb stairs (about 300 steps), natural sculptures, cross the 268‑m glass bridge.
13:30–14:30	Lunch	Restaurant at the foot. Dishes: Xinchang‑style duck, vegetables, rice, tea.
14:30–15:30	Temple and free time	Visit Ming‑dynasty temple, souvenir shops, extra photos.
15:30	Meeting and departure to Shanghai	Estimated departure time.
~18:30	Arrival in Shanghai	Drop‑off at Xinzhuang metro station (time may vary due to traffic).

💡 Important notes:

Wear comfortable non‑slip shoes – there are stairs and wet areas near the waterfall.
Bring a raincoat (spray from the waterfall) and a windbreaker (windy in the gorge).
Passport, cash (yuan – cards not accepted everywhere), water, camera.
The tour is suitable for people with good physical fitness. For less mobile tourists – limited route (electric cart available).

Cost and conditions

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Tour cost

Train + taxi

Economy

Guide meets you at the park entrance, helps with tickets. Transfer to the station on your own.

300$per group of 1–3 people

Train tickets, entry, lunch – separate

By car

Comfort

Guide services, transfer from Shanghai by sedan/minivan.

360$per group of 1–3 people

Entrance tickets, lunch – separate

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Additional expenses per person

Entrance ticket to Xinchang Danxia Geopark100¥ (~14$)
Glass bridge (mandatory)60¥ (~8$)
Lunch at a restaurant60¥ (~8$)
Train ticket Shanghai–Xinchang (round trip, 2nd class)~240¥ (~34$)
Taxi from station to park (round trip, per group)~70¥ (~10$)

*2026 prices, exchange rate approximate. Children under 1.2 m get 50% discount on entry.

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Duration

~11.5 hours

departure 07:00, return ~18:30

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Additional services

🚗

Minivan rental (4–7 people)

+80$

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Overnight in Xinchang (3*)

+100$

📷

Photo session against the cliffs

+60$

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Shanghai airport transfer (to/from)

+100$

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What else can be visited

🏯 Xinchang Great Buddha Temple (新昌大佛寺) Huge Buddha statue carved in the rock (15 km).

🌾 Dafo Longjing tea plantations (大佛龙井) Tasting of famous tea (20 km).

🏞️ Chuanyan Waterfall (穿岩十九峰) 19 rock peaks and suspension bridges (25 km).

Frequently asked questions

Is the route difficult? Suitable for the elderly?

The route mainly follows concrete and wooden paths, with several stair sections (about 300 steps). Trekking poles are recommended for the elderly. An electric cart can be rented (20¥).

What should I bring?

Comfortable non‑slip shoes, a windbreaker (it can be windy in the gorge), water, a snack, passport, cash for lunch and souvenirs, a camera with a wide‑angle lens.

Is it worth going if I have already been to Zhangjiajie?

Yes, the geology is different here – red sandstone (Danxia), softer forms. Shilijiang gorge is very picturesque and less touristy than national parks. Plus the unique ‘Thousand Buddhas’ rock.

Are there elevators or cable cars in the park?

No, this is a natural park with walking routes. However, trails are equipped with railings and information boards. An electric cart can be rented for part of the route.

Is the glass bridge safe?

Yes, the bridge is certified, made of multi‑layer glass, and checked daily. It is recommended for people without a strong fear of heights.

When is the best time to go?

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) – most comfortable weather, vivid rock colors. Summer is hot, but you can cool off by the waterfall.

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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 (e.g. closure of the glass bridge in strong wind).