Xinchang: Big Stone Waterfall (Dashipu) and Red Cliffs

Set off from Shanghai to the red cliffs of Xinchang on a relaxed private tour. Your Russian-speaking guide will drive you to the heart of the Danxia landscape. You'll walk through tea plantations with whimsical boulders, traverse a canyon with sheer cliffs, streams and caves — difficult sections are equipped with metal walkways.

The main attraction is the "Big Stone Waterfall" (大石瀑), a cliff 200 m wide and 80 m high, resembling a frozen waterfall. Then you'll visit a scenic tea village with lone maples. Lunch is included, the itinerary is flexible, the whole day unfolds at your own pace, after which you'll be driven back to Shanghai.

🗻Red cliffs
🌿Tea plantations
🪨Giant cliff 200 m
🚶Leisurely walks
🍽️Lunch included

On the way to the red cliffs

What to expect

  • Departure from Shanghai (07:30) — pick-up at your hotel or convenient location, ~3 hours (260 km) with one stop.
  • Arrival at Dingshan Village (~10:45) — restroom, briefing from the guide, start of the walk.
  • Tea plantations with boulders (11:00–12:00) — walk among whimsical stone formations, unique photo opportunities.
  • Shili Qianxi Canyon (12:00–13:00) — traverse metal walkways along the stream, see caves and sheer cliffs.
  • Lunch (13:00–14:30) — restaurant at the foot, local cuisine (included in the price).
  • Big Stone Waterfall (Dashipu) (14:30–15:30) — climb to the famous cliff, panoramic views, photo session.
  • Dongzhi Village (16:00–16:45) — stroll through the ancient village, see traditional life.
  • Return to Shanghai (17:00–20:00) — approximate arrival in Shanghai around 20:00.

Sample itinerary (1 day)

*Times and order of sights may change

TimeProgram stageDetails
07:30Departure from Shanghai (from hotel)260 km, ~3 hours, one 15-min stop.
10:45Arrival at Dingshan Village (定山村)Restroom, briefing, start of walk.
11:00–12:00Tea plantations and bouldersWalk through the fields, see whimsical stone formations, photos.
12:00–13:00Shili Qianxi Canyon (十里浅溪)Walk along metal walkways, see caves and cliffs.
13:00–14:30LunchRestaurant at the foot, included in the price.
14:30–15:30Dashipu Cliff (大石瀑)Visit the "Big Stone Waterfall", panoramic views.
16:00–16:45Dongzhi Village (东芝村)Walk through the ancient village, old houses and lanes.
17:00Gather and depart for ShanghaiApproximate departure time.
~20:00Arrival in ShanghaiDrop-off at your hotel or convenient location.

💡 Important notes:

  • The tour is suitable for all ages, difficult sections have metal walkways.
  • Comfortable non-slip shoes, windbreaker, water are recommended.
  • Passport, cash (for entrance tickets and souvenirs), camera.
  • In the rainy season, trails may be wet – exercise caution.

Price & conditions

💰

Tour price

Train + taxi

Economy

Guide meets you at the park entrance, helps with tickets. Transfer to station on your own. Shanghai–Xinchang train runs 6 times a day, travel time ~1.5 h. Taxi from station to Dingshan Village – 20 min. Lunch included.

$320per group 1–3 pax
Train tickets and entrance tickets – separate

By car

Comfort

Guide services, transfer from Shanghai by sedan/minivan, lunch included.

$360per group 1–3 pax
Entrance tickets – separate
🎫

Additional expenses per person

  • Geopark entrance ticket50¥ (~$7)
  • Train ticket Shanghai–Xinchang (round trip, 2nd class)~240¥ (~$34)
  • Taxi from station to Dingshan Village (round trip, per group)~80¥ (~$11)
*2026 prices, exchange rate approximate. Children get discounts on train tickets.
⏱️

Duration

~12 hours
depart 07:30, return ~20:00

Extra services

🚗
Minivan rental (4–7 pax)Spacious vehicle for a comfortable ride
+$80
🏨
Overnight in Xinchang (3*)Hotel near the park
+$100
📷
Photo session against the cliffsProfessional photos against the red cliffs
+$60
🚗
Hotel transferPick-up and drop-off at your Shanghai hotel
+$50
✈️
Shanghai airport transferMeet at the airport and delivery to hotel
+$100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for seniors and children?
Yes, the route is based on leisurely walks, and difficult sections have metal walkways. Suitable for all ages. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
What is included in the price?
Transfer from Shanghai in a comfortable car, services of a Russian-speaking guide, and lunch at a local restaurant. Entrance tickets are paid separately.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, water, passport, cash for souvenirs and entrance tickets (about 50–100¥).
How is this route different from the Xinchang Danxia tour?
In Xinchang Danxia you visit a park with a waterfall and a glass bridge, while this route leads to the unique 'Big Stone Waterfall' (Dashipu) cliff through wild tea plantations and a canyon. It is a less touristy and more scenic spot.
Is the route safe?
Yes, trails have railings and metal walkways on difficult sections. The guide is always nearby, helping and explaining.
When is the best time to go?
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) – most comfortable weather, vivid colors. Summer is hot, but you can cool off in the streams. The Dashipu cliff is especially impressive after rain.
⚠️

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. The organizer reserves the right to change the program due to weather conditions (for example, trails may be closed in heavy rain).