Waterfalls near Shanghai: natural treasures of Zhejiang and Jiangsu provinces

Discover the amazing world of waterfalls around Shanghai. Just a few hours' drive from the noisy metropolis, you will find mountain streams, cascading waters and picturesque natural corners, perfect for day trips.

Did you know? Although Shanghai itself is a flat city, the surrounding provinces of Zhejiang and Jiangsu are rich in hilly and mountainous areas. It is here, among forests and national parks, that dozens of waterfalls originate, especially powerful after the rainy season and spring snowmelt. Many of them can be easily visited in one day, making them an ideal escape from the city bustle.

Best waterfalls for a trip from Shanghai

Dalongqiu Waterfall (大龙湫瀑布) - 190 meters

Highest 5-6 hours Moderate
Dalongqiu Waterfall 190 meters high in Yandangshan mountains, Zhejiang province

Dalongqiu Waterfall is a giant 190-meter waterfall located in the Yandangshan mountains (Zhejiang Province). One of the most famous waterfalls in China, known for its powerful vertical flow. Surrounded by scenic peaks and often shrouded in light mist, creating a fairytale atmosphere.

Height and power 190 meters of pure natural energy. One of the highest single‑tier waterfalls in China.
Scenic surroundings Located in Yandangshan National Park, famous for its unique granite peaks.
Seasonality Most powerful in late spring (May–June) and after summer rains (July–August).
Legends According to legend, a dragon once lived here, giving the waterfall its name ("Big Dragon Pool").

Practical information about Dalongqiu Waterfall:

  • How to get from Shanghai: About 5-6 hours by car from Shanghai. It is best to plan a 2-day trip.
  • Entrance: Paid, included in the Yandangshan park ticket (around 50-100 yuan).
  • Best time to visit: Spring and early summer, as well as after prolonged rains.
  • Guide tip: Be sure to wear non-slip shoes, as the rocks around the waterfall can be wet. The best views are from the special viewing platform.

Jiulongtan Waterfall (九龙潭瀑布) - 9 levels

9 levels 4 hours Moderate
Jiulongtan Waterfall with 9 cascading levels in Tiantai Mountain

Jiulongtan Waterfall is a unique waterfall consisting of nine consecutive cascades in the Tiantai Mountains (Zhejiang). Each level has its own character – from swift streams to calm pools. Legend has it that nine dragons once lived here, each guarding its own level of the waterfall.

Nine‑tier structure Each of the nine cascades has a unique character and height, creating a diverse spectacle.
Well‑planned infrastructure A convenient walking trail with bridges and viewing platforms runs around the waterfall at each level.
Rich ecosystem The surrounding forest is home to a variety of plants, birds and small animals.
Cultural significance Tiantai Mountain is one of the sacred mountains of Chinese Buddhism, adding a spiritual atmosphere to the place.

Practical information about Jiulongtan Waterfall:

  • How to get from Shanghai: About 4 hours by car from Shanghai. A day trip is possible, but it's better to stay overnight.
  • Entrance: Paid, part of Tiantai Mountain National Park.
  • Time for viewing: A full walk along all nine levels takes about 2-3 hours.
  • Guide tip: Go on a weekday to avoid crowds. Start at the bottom and gradually go up along the trail.

Baizhangji Waterfall (百丈漈瀑布) - 3 levels

Three levels 3.5-4 hours Easy
Three‑tier Baizhangji Waterfall with rainbow near Wuzhen area

Baizhangji Waterfall is a three‑tier waterfall in the Wuzhen area (northern Zhejiang). Each of the three cascades has its own height and character, and on sunny days you can often see a rainbow here. Especially beautiful after prolonged rains, when water rushes down the mountain ledges in a powerful stream.

Three different cascades Upper – swift and narrow, middle – wide and powerful, lower – branched and picturesque.
Rainbow show On sunny days, especially in the morning and afternoon, bright rainbows often form in the spray of the waterfall.
Historical context The Wuzhen area is known for its ancient water towns, allowing you to combine natural and cultural experiences.
Accessibility Well‑maintained trails and viewing platforms make the waterfall accessible to visitors of all ages.

Practical information about Baizhangji Waterfall:

  • How to get from Shanghai: 3.5-4 hours by car from Shanghai. Suitable for a long day trip.
  • Entrance: Paid (about 60-80 yuan).
  • For photographers: The best shots are from the middle viewing platform, which shows all three levels.
  • Guide tip: Bring a raincoat or umbrella – the waterfall spray can wet you even from a considerable distance. The best time for photos is around noon when the sun illuminates all levels of the waterfall.

Longtan Waterfall in Hangzhou (杭州龙潭瀑布) - most accessible

Most accessible 2 hours Easy
Longtan Waterfall in Hangzhou with wooden Rainbow Valley trail

Longtan Waterfall in Hangzhou is a scenic waterfall in the mountains near Hangzhou. It can be reached via a comfortable wooden trail called "Rainbow Valley", making this place ideal for tourists of all fitness levels. Often combined with a visit to the ancient Jing Mountain tea plantations and West Lake.

Convenient accessibility The wooden "Rainbow Valley" trail makes the waterfall accessible to visitors of all ages and fitness levels.
Combined routes Perfectly combined with a visit to Jing Mountain tea plantations, West Lake and other Hangzhou attractions.
Picturesque surroundings Beautiful mountain landscape, clean air and a peaceful atmosphere.
Infrastructure Near the waterfall there are cafes, souvenir shops and rest areas.

Practical information about Longtan Waterfall in Hangzhou:

  • How to get from Shanghai: Only 2 hours by car from Shanghai. An ideal option for a day trip.
  • Combined itinerary: Recommended to combine with a visit to Jing Mountain tea plantations and West Lake.
  • Entrance: Paid (about 40-60 yuan, including the "Rainbow Valley" trail).
  • Guide tip: Wear comfortable shoes for walking on wooden decking. After the waterfall, you can descend to a scenic mountain lake. The best time to visit is spring, when the surrounding nature is especially beautiful.

Shilin Waterfall (石林瀑布) - Stone forest

Stone forest 2.5-3 hours Moderate
Shilin Waterfall among the stone forest in Tiantai Mountain

Shilin Waterfall is a unique waterfall located among picturesque rock formations in the Tiantai Mountains. The name "Shilin" translates as "Stone forest", which perfectly describes the surrounding landscape of fantastic stone pillars and cliffs. The waterfall is of a cascading type, its waters flowing down numerous ledges, creating a unique interplay of light and shadow against the ancient rocks.

Stone forest The waterfall is surrounded by unique limestone formations resembling a stone forest, making it especially photogenic.
Cascading structure Consists of several consecutive falls, each creating its own unique character and sound.
Combined tours Often included in two-day itineraries "Dafo Temple + Shilin Waterfall", allowing you to see both cultural and natural attractions in one trip.
Unique landscape The combination of waterfall and karst rock formations creates one of the most unusual landscapes in the region.

Practical information about Shilin Waterfall:

  • How to get from Shanghai: 2.5-3 hours from Shanghai or 1.5 hours from Ningbo. The road includes both expressways and scenic mountain serpentines.
  • Combined tours: Ideally combined with a visit to the ancient Dafo Temple in Ningbo and other attractions of Tiantai Mountain.
  • Entrance: Paid (part of Tiantai Mountain National Park, about 60-80 yuan depending on season).
  • Guide tip: Be sure to wear comfortable non-slip shoes, as the trails around the waterfall can be rocky and wet. The best time for photos is in the morning when sunlight beautifully illuminates the rock formations. If planning a two-day trip, stay overnight in Ningbo.

Frequently asked questions about waterfalls near Shanghai

Which waterfall is best to visit if you only have one day in Shanghai?

Definitely Longtan Waterfall in Hangzhou. It is only 2 hours away, the road is easy, and the trail is comfortable and requires no special preparation. The trip can easily be combined with lunch in Hangzhou and a visit to other attractions such as West Lake or tea plantations.

Is it allowed to swim in waterfalls near Shanghai?

No, swimming is usually strictly forbidden for safety reasons. Currents can be strong and the bottom slippery and rocky. Additionally, in some cases the water may be polluted or contain dangerous microorganisms. Enjoy the views and take photos, but do not go into the water.

When is the best time to visit waterfalls around Shanghai?

The best time is late spring (May–June) and after summer rains (July–August), when the waterfalls are most powerful. Autumn (September–October) is also good for visiting – less rainfall, comfortable temperatures and beautiful autumn colours in the forest. In winter, some waterfalls may become significantly shallower or even freeze.

🌊 Practical tips for visiting waterfalls from Shanghai in 2025

Footwear and clothing Be sure to wear non-slip shoes – trails can be wet and slippery. Take a raincoat or waterproof jacket to protect from spray.
Safety Do not get too close to the edge of cliffs, follow all warning signs and do not enter the water. Stay on marked trails.
Equipment Bring plenty of water, a light snack, sun protection, wet wipes and a fully charged power bank.
Planning For distant waterfalls (Dalongqiu, Jiulongtan) it is better to plan a 2-day trip. The nearest waterfalls (Longtan) are ideal for a day trip.

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