Xiyoupu Waterfall: A Mountain Fairy Tale of West Tianmu
Xiyoupu Waterfall (西游瀑) is a picturesque spot at the foot of West Tianmu Mountain (Lin'an, Hangzhou). The waterfall forms when water overflows the reservoir dam. Hidden in an ancient forest, it is most powerful after rains. The name "Xiyou" ("Journey to the West") refers to legends of wandering monks and immortals.
You will see a 48-meter stream, the Jade Bridge viewpoint, ancient cryptomeria trees (some over 500 years old), and the Heart of the Mountain spring. On sunny days a rainbow appears over the water. The walk along the equipped trail is accessible for all ages.
Two cascades, 30 m
Ancient forest
Rainbow after rain
Well-maintained trails
Perfect for photos
Beauty of the Waterfall and Surroundings
What to Expect
- Departure from Shanghai (07:00) — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, ~3.5 hours drive (280 km) to Lin'an District, one stop.
- Arrival at the foot of West Tianmu Mountain (~10:30) — restroom, briefing, ticket purchase (included in economy package).
- Start of ascent to the waterfall (11:00) — walk along the eco-trail through the forest (about 40 minutes).
- Sightseeing of Xiyoupu Waterfall (11:45–13:00) — lower and upper cascades, Jade Bridge viewpoint, spring, photo session.
- Lunch (13:00–14:15) — traditional village cuisine at a restaurant at the foot (fresh vegetables, braised duck, bamboo shoots).
- Free time / additional activities (14:15–15:30) — walk to ancient cryptomeria trees, tea ceremony, visit to a local stone carving workshop.
- Return to Shanghai (15:30–19:00) — approximate arrival at Xinzhuang metro station around 19:00.
Sample Tour Itinerary
*Option available by train Shanghai–Hangzhou + taxi/car rental to Lin'an (about 1.5 hours).
| Time | Program Stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | Departure from Shanghai (Xinzhuang metro) | 280 km road, ~3.5 hours, 15-min break. |
| 10:30 | Arrival at West Tianmu scenic area | Restroom, ticket purchase (included in economy package). |
| 11:00 | Start of ascent to the waterfall | Eco-trail (1.2 km), wooden boardwalks, about 200 steps. Leisurely pace. |
| 11:45–13:00 | Sightseeing of waterfall and surroundings | Lower cascade (approx. 18 m), upper cascade (12 m), viewpoint, spring. Photos, sound of water. |
| 13:00–14:15 | Lunch | Local cuisine restaurant. Dishes: braised chicken with mushrooms, fried rice with vegetables, bamboo shoots, tea. |
| 14:15–15:30 | Free time / tea ceremony | Visit to a tea house, stone carving workshop, walk to centuries-old cryptomeria trees (700-year-old trees). |
| 15:30 | Gathering and departure to Shanghai | Estimated departure time. |
| ~19:00 | Arrival in Shanghai | Drop-off at Xinzhuang metro station. (Time may vary due to traffic jams). |
💡 Important notes:
- Be sure to wear comfortable trekking shoes – trails can be wet in places.
- Raincoat or light jacket – mountain weather changes quickly.
- Passport, cash in yuan (cards are not accepted everywhere), water, snack, camera.
- The tour is suitable for people with good physical fitness, but not too difficult (200 steps). Children must be supervised.
Price and Conditions
💰
Tour price
Train + taxi
EconomyGuide meets you at the entrance, assistance with tickets. Transfer to the station on your own.
$350per group of 1–3 people
Train tickets, entrance, lunch – separate
Car (1–3 people)
ComfortGuide services, transfer from Shanghai by sedan/minivan.
$370per group of 1–4 people
Entrance tickets, lunch – separate
🎫
Additional expenses per person
- Entrance ticket to West Tianmu Park110¥ (~$15)
- Electric car from parking to trailhead (optional)20¥ (~$3)
- Lunch at a village restaurant80¥ (~$11)
- Train ticket Shanghai–Hangzhou (round trip, 2nd class)~140¥ (~$20)
- Taxi Hangzhou–Lin'an–waterfall (round trip, per group)~200¥ (~$28)
*2026 prices, exchange rate approximate. Children under 1.2 m get 50% discount on entrance.
⏱️
Duration
~12 hours
departure 07:00, return ~19:00
✨
Additional services
🚗
Minivan rental (5–7 people)
+$80
🏨
Overnight in Lin'an (3* hotel + breakfast)
+$110
📷
Photo session at the waterfall
+$50
✈️
Transfer from Shanghai airport (Pudong/Hongqiao)
+$100
📍
Other nearby attractions
🏯 Chanyuan Temple (禅源寺)
Ancient Buddhist temple at the foot of the mountain, founded in 1665. (6 km)
🌲 Valley of Cryptomeria "Patriarch Trees"
Grove of trees up to 1500 years old, up to 50 meters high. (3 km)
🏞️ Baishuijian (白水涧) — "White Water Gorge"
Natural cascade waterfall surrounded by bamboo forests. More powerful and popular than Xiyoupu. (20 km)
🍃 Lin'an Bamboo Village
Bamboo museum, weaving workshop. (15 km)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the climb to the waterfall difficult?
No, the trails are equipped with steps and railings. The main part of the route takes about 30–40 minutes at a leisurely pace. There are a few ascents, but they are not too steep. Suitable for most ages.
What should I bring?
Comfortable trekking shoes or sneakers with non-slip soles, raincoat (weather in the mountains is changeable), water, a light snack, camera, passport, cash for lunch and souvenirs.
When is the best time to visit Xiyoupu Waterfall?
The best period is from May to September after rains, when the waterfall is fullest. In autumn (October–November) the foliage is beautiful, but the water flow is weaker. In winter the waterfall partially freezes — very picturesque, but roads can be slippery.
Can I take photos?
Yes, photos and videos are welcome. The best angles are from the lower viewing platform (rainbow on sunny days) and from the upper bridge (panorama of the cascade).
Is it safe to swim near the waterfall?
Swimming is officially prohibited due to strong currents and cold water. However, you can dip your feet in the stream downstream in a designated area.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children from 6 years old can handle the route if the weather is good and they have comfortable shoes. For toddlers under 6, it's better to choose an easier option (only the lower cascade).
Important information
Prices are valid for 2026. Booking requires 100% prepayment (PayPal, card). Cancellation 48 hours before – full refund, less than 48 hours – 50% refund (train tickets are purchased in advance). The organizer reserves the right to change the program due to weather conditions or force majeure (e.g., trail closure due to mudflow).
