What are the Top 6 China's Beautiful Waterfalls in 2025
China is so off-the-scale massive that the stupendous scenery spans the range. No matter you are interested in seeking for natural wonders or keen on thousands of years’ culture, China is the place to fulfill your ambition. Among the countless natural landscape in China, waterfall is one of the most beautiful wonders. Visiting these waterfalls will bring the chance to view some of the most striking sights in China. They are filled with breathtaking beauty. Here are the top 6 most beautiful waterfalls with distinctive features.
Most Popular Destinations To Explore In China:
1. Huangguoshu (黄果树) Waterfall – the Largest Waterfall in China
Best Time: June ~ October
Recommended Visiting Time: 3 ~ 4 hours
Address: Zhenning County, Anshun City, Guizhou Province
Huangguoshu Waterfall is the largest waterfall in China and tallest Waterfall in the world at 77.8 m high and 101 m wide. The wonderful sight of the waterfall and beautiful surrounding rising mountains form the attractive Huangguoshu Waterfall National Park which is listed as China's AAAAA Scenic Area. The whole scenic area contains 18 waterfalls with various sizes, and is listed in the largest waterfalls in the world by Guinness. The park can be divided into six scenic areas – Central Area, Tianxingqiao Area, Doupotang Area, Dishuitan Area, Shenlong Dong Area and Longgong Area.
The Central Area is the highlight of Huangguoshu Waterfall National Park, containing Huangguoshu Waterfall, Bosai Garden, Water-Curtain Cave, Rhinoceros Beach etc. The Huangguoshu Waterfall pours from the over 70 meters high cliff to the Rhinnoceros and gives out huge rumbling, providing great visual feast to the viewers. There are several places to enjoy different view of the grand waterfall. From the Waterfall-viewing Pavilion, the whole waterfall can be admired from a distance. The Waterfall-viewing Stage offers a bird’s eye view. Water-Curtain Cave is hidden behind the grand Huangguoshu Waterfall. It is a 164-meter long with fantastic stalactites. In the cave, you can also see many flying small springs.
Huangguoshu Waterfall Festival: Since 2004, Huangguoshu Waterfall Festival has been held at Huangguoshu National Park from late September every year and lasts for about 15 days. During the festival, there will some interesting competitions and wonderful performance.
With more days, we highly recommend you uncover the natural and cultural treasures that await in this enchanting corner of Guizhou. With each step, explore the mystical beauty of Mount Fanjing (Fanjingshan), where lush forests and ancient temples await. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Xijiang Miao Village, home to the fascinating Miao ethnic minority. Wander through the enchanting pathways of Xiaoqikong, marveling at its picturesque waterfalls and karst formations. Dive into the mystical depths of Longgong Cave and discover its hidden wonders. Finally, step back in time as you wander the cobbled streets of Qingyan Ancient Town, soaking in its timeless charm.
☛ 4 Days Guiyang City Tour with Huangguoshu Waterfall
☛ 6 Days Authentic Guizhou Tour to Anshun & Kaili
☛ 6 Days Diverse Guizhou Tour (Guiyang / Kaili / Fanjingshan)
2. Hukou (壶口) Waterfall - Magnificent Yellow Waterfall
Best Time: April ~ May, September ~ November
Recommended Visiting Time: 2~3 hours
Address: Border of Jixian County of Shanxi and Yichuan County of Shaanxi
When the Yellow River flows to Hukou Village where the width of river course is narrowing to 20~30 meters from 500 meters, the water pours into the about meters lower riverbed and forming the spectacular Hukou Waterfall. Hukou Waterfall is a magic wonder mounted on the Yellow River, giving tourists a heart-shaking sight and stimulating your boundless imagination. It is the largest yellowish waterfall in the world and the China’s second largest waterfall only next to the Huangguoshu Waterfall.
Because the Hukou Waterfall is located in a joint of Shanxi (山西) and Shaanxi (陕西), you can visit it from Shanxi side or Shaanxi side. There is not bridge or road connecting two sides. Generally, visiting the Hukou Waterfall from Shanxi side allows you to see more other small attractions along the Yellow River apart from the awe-inspiring view of Hukou Waterfall, including Dragon Cave, Ten-mile Dragon Trough and Circumzenitha Arc (can be seen from both parts). The Circumzenitha Arc is an honored name of the beautiful rainbow, which is a multicolored decoration above the shrouded mist. If you visit Hukou Waterfall from Shaanxi part, you might get an opportunity to enjoy the folk artistic performance called Drum Fight. It always takes place in some special days, featuring in its harmonious combination of dance, kunfu and percussion music.
Continuing our exploration of China's stunning natural wonders, let's journey to the vicinity of Hukou Waterfall in Shanxi Province! Step back in time as you wander the Pingyao Ancient City, Wang’s Family Compound and Qiao’s Family Compound, where history comes alive amidst well-preserved architecture and traditional culture. Seek spiritual solace amidst the sacred peaks of Mount Wutai (Wutaishan), a UNESCO World Heritage Site revered by pilgrims and nature enthusiasts alike. Marvel at the ancient artistry of Yungang Grottoes, where intricate carvings and serene Buddha statues adorn the rock faces. Finally, embark on a thrilling adventure through Hengshan Hanging Temple - A Magic Temple in the Air, where sheer cliffs create an unforgettable backdrop.
☛ 2 Days Yellow River Hukou Waterfall TourTour
☛ 3 Days Best Xian City Tour Plus Hukou Waterfall
☛ 7 Days Shanxi Diversity Tour including Hukou Waterfall Request
3. Nuorilang (诺日朗) Waterfall – the Widest Waterfall in China
Best Time: all the year around
Recommended Visiting Time: 1 hour
Address: Jiuzhaigou National Park, Zhangzha Town, Jiuzhaigou County, Aba Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province
Located in picturesque Jiuzhaigou Valley, the Nuorilang Waterfall is an attractive travertine waterfall. With a width of 270 meters and height of 24.5 meters, it is the widest waterfall and one of the largest travertine waterfalls in China and most photographed waterfall in Jiuzhaigou. The famed Chinese TV series Pilgrimage to the West has filmed there.
This majestic waterfall can be appreciated in different distance and in different seasons. In front of the Nuorilang Waterfall is built a viewing-deck, from which you can catch a panoramic view of the waterfall. In spring, it seems like a kid running in the verdant forest. When the summer comes, it shows an impressive display of power with the upsurge of water. During the golden autumn, you will be shocked by the charming picture unfolding on a magnificent scale under the background of the colorful leaves and azure sky. If the cold winter comes, the Nuorilang Waterfall will be frozen and form ice cubes in thousands of postures.
What's more, there are some other destinations in Sichuan well worth your visit. As the capital city of Sichuan, Chengdu is regarded as the no.1 destination to be visited, where Giant Panda Base, Wenshu Monastery, Jinli Old Street and Jinsha Site Museum, etc. are waiting you. Besides Chengdu, you can transfer to the following destinations, like Leshan (1 day) to explore Leshan Giant Buddha, Emeishan (2 days), and Dujiangyan (1~2 days), etc. Discover now!
Tips
Please note that the altitude of Jiuzhaigou National Park reaches more than 3,000 meters, so you need to prevent high altitude sickness if it’s your first time to visit high plateau.
☛ 3 Days Classic Jiuzhaigou Tour by Flight
☛ 4 Days Jiuzhaigou Tour from Chengdu
4. Detian Waterfall (德天) – the Largest Multinational Waterfall in Asia
Best Time: June ~ September
Recommended Visiting Time: 4~6 hours
Address: Daxin County, Congzuo City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region
The waterfalls group located at the junction of China and Vietnam is so attractive that it's honored as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. It comprises the Detian Waterfall on the Chinese side and the Ban Gioc Waterfall on the Vietnamese side. Detian Waterfall is rather earth-shaking and attracts more tourists. With a cumulative drop of three tiers and over 70 meters, the Detian Waterfall is the largest transnational waterfall in Asia and the fourth one in the world. It shows a classic Asian landscape of rocky outcrops towering over lush rice paddies.
There is available scenic bus leaving for the gate to the waterfall. The sound of water flowing in the distance along the way is like the rumble of thunders. As you get close to it, you will undoubtedly get a feeling of joy mixed with surprise. The falls plunge into turquoises waters deep. Ascending the stairs, you will arrive in the viewing deck and closely feel the great falls flowing down vigorously with masculinity.
Then, let's prepare to be mesmerized by the natural wonders awaiting in this enchanting corner of Guangxi. Explore the Mingshi Scenic Area, where ancient limestone formations create a mystical landscape straight out of a fairy tale. Venture into the Tongling Grand Canyon and marvel at the sheer cliffs. Discover the secrets of longevity at Bama Longevity Village, where residents are known for their exceptional health and longevity attributed to the pristine natural environment and healthy lifestyle. Experience the tranquility of Shuolong Town, and complete your journey with a visit to Nanning, the capital city of Guangxi, where the majestic Longhu Mountain offers panoramic views and serene hiking trails.
Tips
1) In addition to the Detian Waterfall, the natural view of the surrounding karst peaks, rivers, plants and rural villages combing with the rich folk custom making this scenic area featured and fascinating.
2) Light for photograph is best in the morning, because the sun sets almost directly behind the falls in the evening.
☛ 2 Days Best Detian Waterfall Tour from Nanning
☛ 3 Days Detian Waterfall & Bama Longevity Tour from Nanning
☛ 4 Days Guilin Highlights Tour (Li River, Yangshuo & Longji Terraces)
5. Changbai Mountain (长白山) Waterfall – Majestic Beauty of Northeast China
Best Time: May ~ October
Recommended Visiting Time: 2 ~ 3 hours
Address: Antu County, Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, Jilin Province
Standing at an impressive 68.5 meters in height, it is one of the tallest waterfalls in China, cascading down amidst the lush greenery of Changbai Mountain. Surrounded by pristine forests and crystal-clear streams, Changbai Mountain Waterfall offers visitors a serene retreat into the heart of nature. The surrounding area is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
The Changbai Mountain Scenic Area is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, which include not only the majestic waterfall but also the stunning Tianchi Lake, known as the "Heavenly Lake," nestled atop the volcanic crater of Changbai Mountain. Visitors can embark on scenic hikes, boat rides, and even soak in the healing waters of hot springs dotted throughout the area. During the winter months, Changbai Mountain transforms into a winter wonderland, blanketed in pristine snow and offering opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
After your Changbai Mountain trip, go to Jilin City, the serene Jingpo Lake, where emerald waters nestle amidst verdant forest. Then, venture to Jilin Wusong Island, a hidden gem boasting pristine beaches, lush greenery, and an abundance of wildlife for nature enthusiasts to discover. Moreover, you can spend more days moving to Harbin for a taste of tranquility and natural beauty, wander through the picturesque and purest landscapes of China Snow Town, and conclude your adventure with a trip to Yabuli Ski Resort reputed as the “Forest Museum” and the “Natural Oxygen Bar”.
☛ 3 Days Changbai Mountain Classic Tour
☛ 5 Days Changbaishan Winter Tour with Ski Experience
☛ 6 Days China Snow Town & Changbai Mountain Tour from Harbin
6. Jiulong (九龙) Waterfalls (Nine Dragon Waterfalls)
Best Time: June ~ September
Recommended Visiting Time: 2 ~ 3 hours
Address: Yidule Villa, North of Luoping County, Qujing City, Yunnan Province
The special geologic structure of Yunnan plus the thousands years’ erosion of the water, the various waterfalls are formed. This group of waterfalls was named as Jiulong Waterfall after the Jiulong River and there are totally 10 tiers of waterfalls. So there goes an old saying that “Nine dragons and Ten Waterfalls is the No. 1 wonder in the south Kingdom”.
Among the ten waterfalls, the largest one called Shenlong Waterfall reaches to 112 meters in width and 60 meters in drop. The sound of this waterfall is really stunning with deafening roar. On the contrary, the other waterfalls flow rather mildly, like a silks wafting in the wind. Taking the cable car to the high view deck, from which you can overlook the whole imposing appearance of Jiulong Waterfall.
Now, let's prepare to be dazzled by the majestic beauty of the Jinji Peak (金鸡峰), where towering limestone formations create a surreal backdrop. Lose yourself amidst the vibrant sea of rapeseed flowers at the main venue of Luoping Rapeseed Flower Festival, a feast for the eyes and the soul. Embark on a scenic cruise along the picturesque Duoyi River, where emerald waters wind through lush valleys and ancient forests. Delight in the unique landscape of Niujie Luosi Field (牛街螺丝田), a mosaic of terraced rice paddies reminiscent of a watercolor painting. Explore the rugged beauty of Hundreds of Thousands of Mountains (十万大山) and immerse yourself in the rich ethnic cultural heritage at the Bouyei Ethnic Cultural Park.
Tips
1) Luoping is honored as the Home to Rape Flowers. If you visit Jiulong Waterfall in the early February to mid-March, you can savor the beauty of Jiulong Waterfall as well as the lands of rape flowers.
2) The Buyi Water Splashing Festival – one of the most important local minority traditional festivals will be celebrated on the lunar March 3rd. Many local people will gather along the Jiulong River, singing folk songs and joining bamboo-rafting game.
☛ 4 Days Kunming & Luoping Canola Flowers Appreciation Tour
Appreciate the Beauty of Waterfalls with China Discovery
Do you want to visit some of the top 6 waterfalls or even more? Are interested the top natural beauties in China? Feel free to contact us and our travel consultant will customize a natural tour for you. You could add the other top attractions involving culture, history and local life as well. All the itinerary and details will be made according to your own needs and interests.
During the tour, you will get rid of the hustle and public transportation and troublesome navigation. Our local guides and drivers will escort you to any attractions with speed and convenience, and take care of you all the time. The professional travel guides can explain you the history and some interesting legends about every attraction.
More Popular Natural Sceneries
- Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
- Danxia Landform Geopark
- Dongchuan Red Land
- Jiuzhaigou Valley
- Namtso Lake
- Qinghai Lake
- Xiapu Mudflat
- Daocheng Yading
More Recommended Travel Articles
- Top 10 China Destinations in 2025
- Top 15 Things to Do for China Vacation
- China Travel in Different Seasons in 2025
- Top 6 Most Beautiful Rice Terraces in China
- Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains in China
- Four Famous Taoist Mountains in China
- Top 7 Impression Shows in China
- Top 10 Most Beautiful Lakes in China
Recommended Tours
Top 3 tours chosen by most customers to explore in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary, or tailor your own trip now with us.
3 Days Guiyang City Tour with Huangguoshu Waterfall
Guiyang / Anshun / Guiyang
3 Days Classic Jiuzhaigou Tour
Chengdu / Huanglong / Jiuzhaigou
3 Days Yellow River Hukou Waterfall Tour from Pingyao
Pingyao - Hukou
Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once inquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.
Customize a TripHave a question? Get answers from our travel experts or guests
- Your Question:
- Your Name:
- Your Email:
- Submit