Yunzhong Daji · Snowflakes

Yunzhong Daji · Snowflake Waterfall (云中大漈 · 雪花漈) is one of the highest and most picturesque waterfalls in Zhejiang Province. It is called “Snowflake” because of a unique effect: the powerful stream crashes against the rocks, and the wind lifts billions of tiny droplets that swirl in the air like a snowfall even in the summer heat.

The waterfall is nestled deep in the mountains, surrounded by ancient forests, bamboo groves and traditional villages from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The water drops from a height of about 100 meters. During the rainy season its power is astonishing, and on sunny days you can see a rainbow in the cloud of mist. Nearby there are tea terraces and an ancient temple where you can rest from the roar of the water.

💧Waterfall height ~100 m
❄️“Snowfall” effect
🏘️Ancient villages
🍃Tea terraces
🏯Shiji Temple

Waterfall, villages and tea terraces

What awaits you

  • Departure from Shanghai (07:00) — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, ~6 hours drive (470 km) with two stops.
  • Arrival at Yunzhong Daji (13:00) — lunch in a traditional tea village, check‑in at a guesthouse.
  • Trekking to the Snowflake Waterfall (14:30–16:30) — scenic trail along the river, reaching the viewing platforms.
  • Photo session at the waterfall (16:30–18:00) — the best time for shots in the sunset light.
  • Dinner and overnight stay (19:00) — local cuisine, tea ceremony.
  • Second day morning (08:00–10:00) — ascent to the upper viewing platform, panorama of the waterfall and valley.
  • Visit to the ancient village and tea terraces (10:30–12:30) — walk along old streets, tea tasting.
  • Lunch and return (13:00–19:00) — estimated arrival in Shanghai around 19:00.

Sample tour itinerary (2 days / 1 night)

*Option available: Shanghai–Lishui train + transfer to the waterfall (1.5 hours).

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
TimeProgram stageDetails
Day 1
07:00Departure from Shanghai (Xinzhuang metro)\n470 km drive, ~6 hours, two 15‑min stops.

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13:00Arrival at Yunzhong Daji\nLunch at a village restaurant, check‑in at guesthouse.

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14:30Start of trekking to the waterfall\nTrail along the river (about 1 km), reaching the lower viewing platform.

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15:00–16:30Sightseeing of Snowflake Waterfall\nPhotos at the foot, experiencing the “snowfall” of water spray. Rainbow in clear weather.

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16:30–18:00Free time / sunset\nAscent to the middle viewing platform, best angles for photos.

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19:00Dinner and tea ceremony\nTasting of local “Jingning” tea and traditional She ethnic cuisine.

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Day 2
08:00 Breakfast, check‑out Traditional breakfast with rice noodles.

08:30–10:00 Ascent to the upper viewing platform Panorama of the waterfall from above, views of the valley and mountain ranges.

10:30–12:00 Walk through the ancient village of Daji Stone houses from the Ming dynasty, old bridges, Shiji Temple (800 years).

12:00–13:00 Tea terraces and workshop Walk through the terraces, story about tea production, tasting.

13:00 Lunch Dishes made of bamboo and local vegetables.

14:00 Departure to Shanghai Approximate departure time.

~19:30 Arrival in Shanghai Drop‑off at Xinzhuang metro station. (Time depends on traffic).

💡 Important notes:

  • Be sure to bring a waterproof jacket or raincoat – it is very humid near the waterfall, you will get wet in 5 minutes.
  • Comfortable non‑slip shoes (the trail can be wet).
  • Passport, cash yuan, water, camera with tripod (for long exposures).
  • The tour is suitable for people of any fitness level (the trail is flat, without steep ascents).

Price and conditions

💰

Tour price

Train + taxi

Economy

Guide meets at the entrance, ticket assistance. Transfer to the station self‑arranged.

$320per group of 1‑3 people
Train tickets, entrance tickets, accommodation – separate

By car

Comfort

Guide services, transfer from Shanghai by sedan/minivan, overnight stay.

$490per group of 1‑3 people
Entrance tickets, accommodation – separate
🎫

Additional expenses per person

  • Entrance ticket to scenic area110¥ (~$15)
  • Guesthouse accommodation (double room)200¥ (~$28)
  • Meals (lunch + dinner + breakfast + lunch day 2)180¥ (~$25)
  • Electric cart from parking to trail (optional)20¥ (~$3)
  • Train ticket Shanghai–Lishui (round trip, 2nd class)~330¥ (~$46)
*2026 prices, exchange rate approximate.
⏱️

Duration

2 days / 1 night
departure 07:00, return ~19:30 of second day

Additional services

🚗
Minivan rental (5‑7 people)
+$90
🏨
4* hotel in Lishui (instead of guesthouse)
+$80
📷
Waterfall photo session with action camera
+$70
✈️
Shanghai airport transfer (Pudong/Hongqiao)
+$100
📍

Nearby attractions

🏞️ Shengjian National Park (百山祖) Protected area with ancient forests and rare animals. (60 km)
🏘️ Daxu Ancient Village (大漈古村) Another authentic village with Ming‑dynasty houses. (5 km)
🌊 Thousand‑Island Lake (Qiandaohu) Lake of a thousand islands, can be combined with the tour. (120 km)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it difficult to approach the waterfall?
No, a well‑equipped concrete trail with railings leads to the waterfall. The route requires no special training and is suitable for all ages.
What should I bring?
Comfortable waterproof shoes, a raincoat (very humid near the waterfall), a warm sweater, passport, cash for lunch and souvenirs, camera (preferably with a tripod).
Is it worth going?
Absolutely, this is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Eastern China. The ‘snowfall’ effect of water droplets will leave no one indifferent.
Can the waterfall be visited in one day?
The distance from Shanghai is about 470 km, the drive takes over 6 hours. A two‑day tour is recommended to see everything without rushing.
Are there cafes near the waterfall?
Yes, at the entrance to the scenic area there is a restaurant and a few small snack bars. During the trekking you can buy water and tea.
When is the best time to go?
The best time is in summer (June–August) when the waterfall is fullest, or in autumn (September–October) for beautiful colours.
⚠️

Important information

Prices are 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 purchased in advance). The organiser reserves the right to modify the programme due to weather conditions or force majeure. The waterfall is most impressive in the rainy season (June–August).