China is home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the world, offering visitors a chance to experience the country's stunning natural beauty.
From towering cascades nestled in lush forests to hidden gems surrounded by peaceful mountains, these waterfalls in China are perfect destinations for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
In this article, we will explore the 9 best waterfalls to visit in China, each with its own unique charm and incredible landscapes. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a dramatic natural wonder, these waterfalls are sure to leave you in awe.
1) Huangguoshu Waterfall
Huangguoshu Waterfall, located in Guizhou Province, is one of the largest and most famous waterfalls in China, known for its impressive size and breathtaking beauty.
Standing 77.8 meters high and over 100 meters wide, it is part of a larger scenic area with multiple waterfalls and stunning limestone formations.
What makes Huangguoshu particularly special is the Water-Curtain Cave behind the waterfall, where visitors can walk through and experience the falls up close from behind the rushing water. This unique feature allows people to see, hear, and feel the waterfall in an immersive way.
The area surrounding the waterfall is lush with greenery, creating a picturesque scene that attracts nature lovers and photographers from all over the world. Huangguoshu Waterfall is also accessible year-round, making it a popular destination for tourists who want to explore one of China's most iconic natural wonders.
FAQs/Things to know before visiting Huangguoshu Waterfall
1. When is the best time to visit Huangguoshu Waterfall?
The best time to visit Huangguoshu Waterfall is during the summer months, from June to August, when the water flow is at its peak due to seasonal rainfall. This period provides the most dramatic views of the waterfall. However, it’s still a stunning sight year-round, and visiting in the off-season means fewer crowds.
2. Can visitors go behind the waterfall?
Yes! One of the unique features of Huangguoshu Waterfall is the Water-Curtain Cave located behind the waterfall. Visitors can walk through the cave to experience the waterfall from behind, allowing them to see and hear the cascading water up close without getting too wet.
3. How do I get to Huangguoshu Waterfall?
Huangguoshu Waterfall is located in Guizhou Province, about 45 kilometers from the city of Anshun. From Anshun, visitors can take a bus or taxi to the scenic area. The closest major city is Guiyang, which is about 128 kilometers away and accessible by bus or train.
2) Detian Waterfall
Detian Waterfall, located on the border between China and Vietnam in Guangxi Province, is one of the largest transnational waterfalls in the world. It stands at 70 meters high and 200 meters wide, with a series of cascading levels that create a stunning natural spectacle.
The waterfall is surrounded by beautiful karst mountains, lush forests, and peaceful rivers, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers. During the rainy season, from May to September, the water flow is at its strongest, creating a roaring sound as it crashes down the rocks.
Visitors can get close to the falls by boat, feeling the mist and cool breeze from the waterfall. Detian is a great destination for those looking to experience both China’s natural beauty and the unique cultural connection between China and Vietnam.
FAQs/Things to know before visiting Detian Waterfall
1. What is the best time to visit Detian Waterfall?
The best time to visit Detian Waterfall is during the rainy season, from May to September, when the water flow is at its strongest. During this period, the waterfall is especially dramatic and powerful. However, the cooler months from October to April offer a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds.
2. Can you visit both sides of Detian Waterfall, in China and Vietnam?
Yes, since Detian Waterfall is located on the China-Vietnam border, it is possible to view the waterfall from both countries. However, crossing into Vietnam requires proper travel documents, and most tourists choose to view the waterfall from the Chinese side, which offers spectacular views.
3. How do I get to Detian Waterfall?
Detian Waterfall is about 240 kilometers from Nanning, the capital of Guangxi Province. Visitors can take a bus or drive from Nanning to Detian, which takes about 3-4 hours. There are also organised tours that depart from Nanning, making the journey easy for traveler's.
3) Jiulong Waterfall
Jiulong Waterfall, also known as Nine Dragons Waterfall, is a stunning multi-tiered waterfall located in Luoping, Yunnan Province.
This natural wonder consists of nine waterfalls that cascade down the mountains, creating a breathtaking sight as they flow through terraced fields and lush greenery.
The largest of the falls is about 56 meters high, and each level has its own unique shape and character. Jiulong Waterfall is especially beautiful in the spring, from February to April, when the nearby canola fields bloom with bright yellow flowers, adding even more color to the landscape.
Visitors can explore the area through walking paths that offer different views of the falls from both above and below. It's a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers who want to experience one of China's most picturesque waterfalls.
FAQs/Things to know before visiting Jiulong Waterfall
1. When is the best time to visit Jiulong Waterfall?
The best time to visit Jiulong Waterfall is during the spring, especially between February and April, when the nearby canola fields are in full bloom. The bright yellow flowers create a stunning contrast against the waterfalls and surrounding greenery, making it a perfect time for sightseeing and photography.
2. How can I get to Jiulong Waterfall?
Jiulong Waterfall is located in Luoping, Yunnan Province. The nearest major city is Kunming, about 220 kilometers away. Visitors can take a train or bus from Kunming to Luoping, which takes around 2-3 hours. From Luoping, local buses or taxis can take you to the waterfall.
3. Is there a walking path around Jiulong Waterfall?
Yes, there are well-maintained walking paths that allow visitors to explore the area and view Jiulong Waterfall from different angles. You can enjoy both close-up views and panoramic vistas from various observation decks along the trail. The paths make it easy to enjoy the waterfall’s different levels and natural beauty.
4) Nuorilang Waterfall
Nuorilang Waterfall, located in Jiuzhaigou Valley in Sichuan Province, is one of the most beautiful and widest waterfalls in China.
It stands 24.5 meters tall and stretches an impressive 320 meters across, creating a magnificent curtain of water as it cascades over cliffs.
The waterfall is surrounded by lush forests and colourful lakes, making it a popular spot for tourists and photographers alike. Nuorilang is especially breathtaking in autumn, when the trees surrounding the falls turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, adding even more beauty to the scene.
As part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jiuzhaigou National Park, it is a must-see destination for nature lovers who want to experience China’s stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can enjoy walking paths that provide close-up views and panoramic perspectives of this iconic waterfall.
FAQs/Things to know before visiting Nuorilang Waterfall
1. When is the best time to visit Nuorilang Waterfall?
The best time to visit Nuorilang Waterfall is in the autumn months, from September to October, when the surrounding forests are ablaze with red, orange, and yellow colors. However, the waterfall is beautiful year-round, with lush greenery in summer and snowy scenes in winter.
2. How do I get to Nuorilang Waterfall?
Nuorilang Waterfall is located within Jiuzhaigou Valley in Sichuan Province. The nearest airport is Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, about 88 kilometers away. From there, visitors can take a shuttle bus or taxi to Jiuzhaigou National Park, where the waterfall is easily accessible via park transport.
3. Is Nuorilang Waterfall affected by seasonal changes?
Yes, the appearance of Nuorilang Waterfall changes with the seasons. In spring and summer, the water flow is stronger, while in autumn, the vibrant colors of the surrounding trees make it especially scenic. In winter, the waterfall can freeze, creating a stunning ice spectacle.
5) Tenglong Waterfall
Tenglong Waterfall, located in Hubei Province, is a spectacular waterfall known for its dramatic drop and the unique cave system nearby.
Standing at about 90 meters high, Tenglong Waterfall cascades down from a cliff right at the entrance of Tenglong Cave, one of the largest karst caves in China.
The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and rugged mountains, making it a beautiful spot for nature lovers. Visitors are often amazed by the sight of the water crashing down while exploring the nearby caves, which are filled with fascinating rock formations.
Tenglong Waterfall is especially striking after rainfall when the water flow is strongest, creating a powerful and refreshing atmosphere. It's a must-visit destination for anyone interested in both waterfalls and caves, offering a rare combination of natural wonders in one place.
FAQs/Things to know before visiting Tenglong Waterfall
1. Where is Tenglong Waterfall located?
Tenglong Waterfall is located in Lichuan, Hubei Province, China. It is part of the Tenglong Cave Scenic Area, which is renowned for its large karst cave system and the stunning waterfall at its entrance.
2. What makes Tenglong Waterfall unique?
Tenglong Waterfall is unique because it flows right at the entrance of Tenglong Cave, one of the largest karst caves in China. This combination of a towering waterfall and an impressive cave system makes it a rare and exciting destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.
3. When is the best time to visit Tenglong Waterfall?
The best time to visit Tenglong Waterfall is during or after the rainy season, from May to September, when the water flow is at its strongest, providing the most dramatic views. However, the waterfall remains beautiful year-round, and the caves offer a great experience in any season.
6) Shuiliandong Waterfall
Shuiliandong Waterfall, also known as the Water Curtain Cave Waterfall, is a beautiful and historic waterfall located in Hubei Province, China.
It is famous for its connection to the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West, where it is said to be the home of the Monkey King. The waterfall flows down from a height of 60 meters, creating a stunning curtain of water in front of a natural cave that visitors can explore.
Walking behind the waterfall inside the cave offers a unique experience, where you can feel the cool mist and hear the rushing water from up close.
Surrounded by lush greenery and rocky cliffs, Shuiliandong Waterfall is not only a place of natural beauty but also holds a special place in Chinese culture and mythology, making it a popular destination for tourists and fans of the story.
FAQs/Things to know before visiting Shuiliandong Waterfall
1. What is the significance of Shuiliandong Waterfall in Chinese culture?
Shuiliandong Waterfall is famous for its association with the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West. In the story, it is said to be the home of the legendary Monkey King, Sun Wukong. This cultural connection makes the waterfall a popular destination for both tourists and fans of the novel.
2. Can visitors go behind the waterfall?
Yes! One of the most exciting features of Shuiliandong Waterfall is the natural cave behind it, known as the Water Curtain Cave. Visitors can walk behind the waterfall and explore the cave, offering a close-up experience of the falling water while staying mostly dry.
3. When is the best time to visit Shuiliandong Waterfall?
The best time to visit Shuiliandong Waterfall is during the rainy season, typically from May to September, when the water flow is strongest. However, the waterfall is accessible year-round and offers a pleasant experience in any season due to its cultural significance and natural beauty.
7) Gaochang Waterfall
Gaochang Waterfall, hidden in the beautiful mountains of Anji County in Zhejiang Province, is a peaceful and less-known treasure in China.
Surrounded by lush bamboo forests and rolling hills, this secluded waterfall offers a quiet retreat for nature lovers.
The waterfall flows down a tall cliff into a clear, sparkling pool below, creating a serene atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxation. Because it's off the beaten path, Gaochang Waterfall is often free from the large crowds that visit more famous spots, making it feel like a hidden paradise.
Visitors can enjoy hiking through scenic trails to reach the falls, where the sound of the rushing water and the beauty of the natural surroundings provide a calming and unforgettable experience. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to escape and discover one of China’s hidden gems.
FAQs/Things to know before visiting Gaochang Waterfall
1. Where is Gaochang Waterfall located?
Gaochang Waterfall is located in the scenic mountains of Anji County, Zhejiang Province, China. It’s surrounded by bamboo forests and hills, making it a peaceful and less-crowded destination for nature lovers.
2. Is Gaochang Waterfall easy to access?
While Gaochang Waterfall is a bit hidden and off the main tourist paths, visitors can reach it by hiking along scenic trails. The hike is relatively easy and offers beautiful views of the surrounding forests and hills, making it worth the effort for those seeking a quiet, natural retreat.
3. When is the best time to visit Gaochang Waterfall?
The best time to visit Gaochang Waterfall is during the spring and summer months when the water flow is stronger, and the surrounding bamboo forests are lush and green. This ensures the waterfall is at its most beautiful, and the weather is ideal for hiking and exploring the area.
8) Wanfenglin Waterfall
Wanfenglin Waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the Wanfenglin Scenic Area in Guizhou Province, China.
This waterfall is set against the backdrop of the "Forest of Ten Thousand Peaks," a stunning landscape filled with towering limestone karst mountains that stretch for miles.
The waterfall itself cascades down from high cliffs, creating a dramatic and picturesque scene. Surrounded by lush greenery and the unique rock formations of the area, Wanfenglin Waterfall is a hidden gem that offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature.
The waterfall is most impressive after heavy rains, when the water flows more powerfully down the cliffs. This beautiful and less-known spot is perfect for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Guizhou away from the crowds, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers.
FAQs/Things to know before visiting Wanfenglin Waterfall
1. Where is Wanfenglin Waterfall located?
Wanfenglin Waterfall is located in the Wanfenglin Scenic Area, which is part of the Qiannan Prefecture in Guizhou Province, China. The area is famous for its stunning karst mountains, also known as the "Forest of Ten Thousand Peaks."
2. When is the best time to visit Wanfenglin Waterfall?
The best time to visit Wanfenglin Waterfall is during the rainy season, typically from May to September, when the water flow is at its strongest. During this time, the waterfall is most dramatic, and the surrounding greenery is lush and vibrant.
3. How do I reach Wanfenglin Waterfall?
Wanfenglin Waterfall can be accessed by traveling to the Wanfenglin Scenic Area in Guizhou Province. Visitors can take a bus or drive from nearby cities like Xingyi, which is about 30 kilometers away. Once in the scenic area, there are walking paths and viewpoints to explore the waterfall and the surrounding karst landscapes.
9) Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon Waterfalls
The Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon Waterfalls, located in Tibet, are part of the world's deepest canyon, the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon.
These remote waterfalls are surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas, making them a truly awe-inspiring sight.
The water rushes down steep cliffs, carving its way through the rugged landscape of towering peaks and lush valleys. Because of their secluded location, these waterfalls are not as easily accessible as others, but for adventurers, the journey is worth it.
The waterfalls are most impressive during the summer months when snowmelt from the mountains increases the water flow. The dramatic combination of roaring waterfalls and the majestic Himalayan backdrop makes the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon Waterfalls a must-see for those who love wild, untouched nature.
FAQs/Things to know before visiting Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon Waterfalls
1. Where are the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon Waterfalls located?
The Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon Waterfalls are located in the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon in Tibet, the world's deepest canyon. These waterfalls are nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, making them part of a stunning and remote landscape.
2. How can I visit the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon Waterfalls?
Visiting these waterfalls can be challenging due to their remote location in the Tibetan Himalayas.
To reach them, you would need to arrange transportation to Tibet, often starting from cities like Lhasa, followed by guided tours that specialize in trekking through the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon area. Permits and local guides are typically required for travel in Tibet.
3. What is the best time to visit the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon Waterfalls?
The best time to visit the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon Waterfalls is during the summer months, from May to September, when the snowmelt from the Himalayas significantly increases the water flow, making the waterfalls more powerful and majestic.
There you have it! These are 9 of our the best hidden waterfalls located in China, perfect for your next adventure! Whether you plan to do a road trip around China or are visiting for the summer, you should definitely check out some of these hidden waterfalls!
Did you know we have a Hidden Gem Finder on our website? This handy little map shows over 12,000 hidden gems across the entire world with their exact co-ordinates available to view on Google Maps as well as an image/description for each one!
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