Yancangshan — the jewel of mountain waterfalls

Yancangshan (雁苍山瀑布) is one of the most scenic places in Zhejiang Province, located on Yancangshan Mountain (雁苍山). The waterfall drops from a height of over 50 meters, forming several cascades, and is surrounded by dense forests and rocky cliffs. It is an ideal spot for nature lovers, photographers, and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

What awaits you: You will walk along scenic trails through bamboo groves, hear the sound of water, and see how sunlight creates rainbows in the waterfall's spray. At the top of the mountain, an ancient Buddhist temple with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys awaits you. This place is perfect for a one-day trip from Shanghai or Ningbo.

🌊Mountain waterfall
🥾Hiking trails
⏱️12-14 hours
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Family-friendly

Attractions

What to expect

  • Meeting and transfer — we will pick you up from Xinzhuang metro station in Shanghai and head to Ninghai County (宁海) to Yancangshan Mountain.
  • Hike to the waterfall — you will walk along a scenic trail through a bamboo forest and rocky sections, enjoying the fresh mountain air.
  • Yancangshan Waterfall — you will see the main cascade of the waterfall, over 50 meters high, which forms several levels. On sunny days, a rainbow appears above the water.
  • Photo session at the waterfall — the guide will help you choose the best angles for photos with the waterfall and mountain landscapes.
  • Ancient temple on the mountain — visit a Buddhist temple built several centuries ago. You will learn its history and can make a wish at the ancient statue.
  • Lunch at a local restaurant — try traditional dishes of Zhejiang Province: sweet and sour meat, vegetable sides, and famous tea.
  • Observation deck — climb to the observation deck, which offers panoramic views of the valley and neighboring mountain ranges.
  • Walk through the bamboo grove — you will walk along shady trails among tall bamboos, where you can hear birds singing and the wind rustling.
  • Flexible itinerary — the guide will adjust the program to your interests, for example, extending photo time or adding a visit to nearby villages.
  • Return to Shanghai — after a full day, we will take you back to the metro station.
  • Souvenirs and tips — the guide will tell you where to buy local teas and souvenirs, and give recommendations for further travels.

Sample itinerary

*Times and order may be adjusted depending on traffic and the group's pace.

TimeProgram stageDetails and what to know
07:00Departure from Shanghai by car with guide.Meeting at Xinzhuang metro station. Drive to Ninghai County (宁海) takes ~3.5 hours with one stop.
~10:30Arrival at the foot of Yancangshan Mountain.We begin the hike along the trail to the waterfall. The route is of moderate difficulty and takes about 40 minutes.
~11:15Visit Yancangshan Waterfall.You will be able to approach the waterfall up close, feel the freshness of the spray, and take unique photos. The guide will tell you about the legends and history of this place.
12:15 - 13:15Lunch at a local restaurant.Delicious home-style cooking with local ingredients. We recommend trying fried tofu with vegetables and fresh greens.
13:15 - 14:45Additional program – visit to the temple and observation deck.Climb to the ancient temple (20 minutes), admire the architecture and panoramic view of the valley. Then descend to the observation deck.
14:45 - 15:30Walk through the bamboo grove and descent.A leisurely walk among the bamboos, an opportunity to listen to the silence and photograph the local flora.
15:30Gather and start the return trip to Shanghai.Depart to return with a comfortable time margin.
~19:30 - 20:00Arrival in Shanghai.You will be taken to the metro station.

💡 Important notes for the route:

  • Alternative option – train + taxi: Depart Shanghai at 07:00, arrive in Ningbo (宁波) at 09:00. Then taxi to Yancangshan Mountain (30 min). After the visit – lunch in the city. Return train at 18:00. This option requires prior arrangement with the taxi driver.
  • Comfortable shoes are essential: Trails can be slippery after rain. We recommend trekking boots or sneakers with good soles.
  • Weather: Mountain weather changes quickly. Bring a raincoat or light jacket. In summer, don't forget a hat and sunscreen.
  • Water and snacks: We recommend bringing a bottle of water and a small snack (fruit, energy bars). There are rest areas along the route.
  • Camera gear: If you want to shoot the waterfall with a long exposure, bring a tripod and neutral density filters.

Price & conditions

Tour price

Train + taxi

Economy

Meet at the station, help with taxi, accompaniment. Guide services for the full day.

$330per group 1–3 pax
Train/taxi tickets paid separately

By car

Comfort

Car (sedan) with driver from Shanghai and back, all transfers according to program.

$370per group 1–3 pax
Entrance tickets paid separately

Additional expenses (paid on site)

  • Entrance to the waterfall area50¥ (~$7)
  • Entrance to the ancient temple20¥ (~$3)
  • Lunch (local restaurant)80¥ (~$11)
  • Taxi in Ninghai (for train option)~120¥ (~$17 per car)
  • Train tickets Shanghai–Ningbo (round trip)~280¥ (~$40)
*Exchange rates may vary. Prices are approximate.

Duration

12-14 hours
from departure from Shanghai to return

Extra services

Photo session (2 hours)
+$60
🚗
Hotel transfer
+$50
Airport transfer
+$100
Minivan rental
+$80

What else to see nearby

Ancient city of NingboHistorical center with temples and old streets.
Dongqian Lake (东钱湖)The largest freshwater lake in Zhejiang Province.
Ninghai Rice TerracesPicturesque cascading fields in the mountain surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to get to Yancangshan Waterfall from Shanghai?
We offer two options: by train (2 hours to Ningbo station + taxi) or by car with a driver (3.5 hours). We can arrange both options according to your request.
Is the hike to the waterfall difficult?
The trail to the waterfall is of moderate difficulty: there are stone steps and small uphill sections. Suitable for people with good physical fitness. We can choose an easier route if you prefer.
What else can I see near Yancangshan Waterfall?
Along the way you can visit the ancient temple on the mountain, take in panoramic views from the observation deck, and take a walk through the bamboo forest. We will help you choose suitable places.
When is the best time to go to the waterfall?
The best time is spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is mild and nature is especially beautiful. In summer, the waterfall is full, but it can be hot. In winter, snow is possible, creating fairytale landscapes.
How much is the entrance?
Entrance to the waterfall area — 50¥ (about $7). Entrance to the ancient temple — 20¥ (about $3). Students and seniors get discounts.
What should I bring?
Comfortable hiking shoes, a light waterproof jacket, water, snacks, camera, cash in yuan, hat and sunscreen in sunny weather.
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Important information

The stated prices are valid at the time of the offer for private individuals. The cost and availability of vehicles, interpreter and guide services may change.

Booking is made exclusively after receiving a prepayment. The conversion rate is calculated at the current Central Bank rate on the date of payment.

If a booking is cancelled less than 48 hours before the start of the event, the payment is non-refundable.

In the event of force majeure circumstances that make the execution of the tour program fully or partially impossible (national holidays, official events, etc.), the organizer reserves the right to make changes to the program and its duration.

The basic cost of services does not include and is paid additionally: entrance tickets to additional venues, meals, personal expenses and other services listed in the "Additional expenses" section.