Nanxi River Yaxiaku: Canyon under the Cliff
Yaxiaku (崖下库) is one of the most scenic spots in the Nanxi River Valley (楠溪江), Zhejiang Province. The name translates as "Warehouse under the Cliff": the canyon is squeezed by sheer cliffs up to 200 meters high, with a crystal-clear stream running along the bottom. Here you will see the 70-meter "Silver Thread" Waterfall, which forms a rainbow on sunny days, a cliffside trail carved directly into the rock, and ancient villages with a thousand-year history.
The route is equipped with safe stairs and handrails, making it suitable even for beginner hikers. After the canyon, we will head to Cangpo Village (苍坡村) – an example of Song dynasty architecture with a unique layout in the shape of a writing brush, paper, ink stick and ink stone. An ideal place for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and beautiful photos.
Canyon, Waterfall and the Millennium Village
What to expect
- Departure from Shanghai (07:00) — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, ~4.5 hour drive (420 km) to Yongjia County (Wenzhou). Stop for lunch.
- Arrival at Yaxiaku (~12:00) — ticket purchase, brief instructions, start of the hiking route (2 km, about 1.5 hours).
- Walk through the canyon (12:00–13:30) — ascent to the waterfall, walk along the cliffside trail, photos at viewing platforms.
- Lunch at a local restaurant (13:30–14:30) — countryside dishes: local-style duck, bamboo shoots, rice.
- Excursion to Cangpo Village (14:30–16:00) — walk through the ancient Song dynasty village (founded in 955 AD), visit the ancestral temple, water wheels, tea ceremony.
- Return to Shanghai (16:00–20:30) — estimated arrival at Xinzhuang metro station around 20:30.
Sample tour program (1 day)
*The route may be adjusted due to weather or traffic.
| Time | Program stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 07:00 Departure from Shanghai (Xinzhuang metro) 420 km road, ~4–4.5 hours, one 15-min stop. | ||
| 11:30 Lunch stop Roadside cafe (set lunch 50¥/person). | ||
| 12:00 Arrival at Yaxiaku scenic area Restroom, ticket purchase (included in basic package). | ||
| 12:00–13:30 Canyon tour 2 km route, 150 m ascent, 'Silver Thread' Waterfall, cliffside trail, viewing platforms. | ||
| 13:30–14:30 Lunch in Cangpo Village Restaurant at the entrance to the ancient village. | ||
| 14:30–16:00 Sightseeing of Cangpo Village Visit Song dynasty houses, temple, street with souvenir shops. | ||
| 16:00 Gathering and departure to Shanghai Return road with one stop. | ||
| ~20:30 Arrival in Shanghai Drop-off at Xinzhuang metro station. |
💡 Important notes:
- Bring comfortable trekking shoes (trails can be wet).
- Raincoat or umbrella – strong spray from the waterfall.
- Passport, cash in yuan (entrance is cash only, cards not accepted everywhere), water, light snack.
- In Cangpo Village you can buy local tea and rice wine.
Price and conditions
Tour price
Train + taxi
Economy / fastGuide meets you at Taizhou station, transfer to the trail and back, full accompaniment. Train tickets are paid separately.
By car
SedanGuide services, transfer from Shanghai, ticket assistance.
Additional expenses (per person)
- Entrance ticket to Yaxiaku Canyon50¥ (~$7)
- Entrance to Cangpo Village20¥ (~$3)
- Lunch (set menu)50¥ (~$7)
- Train tickets (round trip, 2nd class)~400¥ (~$55)
- Tea ceremony (optional)30¥ (~$4)
Duration
Additional services
Other nearby attractions
Frequently asked questions
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 (tickets are purchased in advance). In case of extreme weather conditions (typhoon, heavy rain), the tour will be rescheduled or fully refunded. Comfortable clothing and shoes for uneven terrain are recommended.
