Nine Dragons Waterfall (Jiulong WaterFall, 九龙瀑) is located adjacent to the Huangshan Scenic Area, situated along the Cloud Valley West Road leading up the mountain. Stretching 600 meters long with a vertical drop of 360 meters, this breathtaking waterfall is fed by the waters from the Tian Du, Yu Ping, and Lian Dan peaks, cascading down into the Yun Gu Stream between the fragrant incense peaks.
The waterfall is part of a stunning landscape that spans 6,000 meters and is known as Dragon Source, a legendary site said to be where Emperor Xuanyuan raised dragons. This area is renowned for its spectacular natural dragon-themed attractions, creating a mystical world of dragons. As you ascend from the base, you’ll encounter scenic spots such as Dragon Maiden Pool, Playful Pearl Pool, Dragon Herding Pool, Dragon Zen Temple, Twin Dragon Waterfalls, Green Dragon Gorge, Nine Curves Gorge, and more.
Additionally, the region features lush primitive forests, bamboo groves, and diverse wildlife, earning it the title of “Huangshan Natural Botanical Garden.” Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature enthusiast, Nine Dragons Waterfall offers a captivating experience filled with natural wonders and rich mythology.
Travel Information about Nine Dragons Waterfall
Ticket Information and Opening Hours
- Ticket Price: ¥85
- Opening Hours:
- March to November: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- December to February: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Best Time to Visit
The summer months are ideal for visiting Nine Dragons Waterfall, as you can escape the heat and enjoy the larger water flow, enhancing the waterfall’s majestic scenery.
If you want to avoid large crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning, as the area tends to be quieter at that time. Afterward, you can continue on to Emerald Valley if you’re interested in exploring more of the area. Most visitors head up to Huangshan, so the attractions near the mountain’s base are typically less crowded. I recommend visiting Nine Dragon Waterfalls the day before your hike to Huangshan, or in the late afternoon after you’ve finished your hike.
Access to the Scenic Area
Location: Mountain Chashan Village, Tangkou Town, Huangshan District, Huangshan City.
From Tunxi: Take a bus from the Tunxi Bus Station to Taiping Lake and get off at the entrance of the Nine Dragons Waterfall Scenic Area.
From Tangkou: You can directly take a taxi to the scenic area, which is approximately 5 kilometers away.
Scenic Rating
- Cultural Experience: ★★
- Unique Features: ★★
- Leisure Activities: ★★★
- Natural Beauty: ★★★
- Romantic Atmosphere: ★★★
- Adventure: ★★★
Highlights of Nine Dragons Waterfall
The Nine Waterfalls and Nine Pools
First Waterfall: Stretching 100 meters, this magnificent waterfall resembles the Milky Way hanging down, creating a stunning sight. At its top are five ice cauldrons, each with a diameter of 1 meter, known as the Five Star Cave. The water cascades over these formations, creating a beautiful curtain of water.
First Pool: Round in shape with a diameter of 50 meters, it is surrounded by towering stone walls reaching 100 meters high, forming a grand basin. Nearby, there is a large cauldron with an 8-meter diameter, adding to the area’s uniqueness.
Second Waterfall: This 20-meter waterfall flows into the Second Pool, which is oval-shaped, measuring 30 meters in length and 15 meters in width. Each end of the pool features a deep basin: the inner basin is 18 meters deep, and the outer basin is 10 meters deep. Legend has it that this is where the Dragon Mother incubates her eggs, hence its name Dragon Mother Pool.
Third Waterfall: Another 100-meter waterfall, the Third Pool is round and has a diameter of 20 meters, located between steep cliffs, and is unfathomably deep. There’s a viewing platform near the cliff.
Fourth Waterfall: This 20-meter waterfall flows into the Fourth Pool, which is oval-shaped, measuring 30 meters in length. A large ice cauldron with a 5-meter diameter can be found at the pool’s edge.
Fifth Waterfall: Measuring 10 meters, this waterfall leads to the Fifth Pool, which is fish-shaped and also known as Fish Dragon Pool.
Sixth Waterfall: Another 10-meter waterfall that flows into a unique pool. The pool contains a deeper inner basin, shaped like a heart and exceptionally emerald green, known as Dragon Heart Pool. Nearby, a pine tree leans over the water, and when the flow is strong, its branches sway, aptly named Caressing Dragon Pine.
Seventh Waterfall: This waterfall is 15 meters long, leading to a Seventh Pool that is round with a diameter of 25 meters. Behind the waterfall, there is a cave, creating a curtain-like effect with the flowing water.
Eighth Waterfall: A 5-meter waterfall flows into the Eighth Pool, which is round with a diameter of 20 meters and features vibrant water colors, along with ice cauldrons at its edge.
Ninth Waterfall: The longest at 120 meters, it splashes like pearls and jade, with a fan-shaped base that is mesmerizing. The Ninth Pool contains a 2-meter diameter ice cauldron, its color reminiscent of emerald, shining brilliantly.
The Legend of the Nine Dragons Waterfall
According to legend, a childless elderly couple once lived by the banks of the Kuzhu Stream. One day, the old man found a stone egg in a water pool. To their astonishment, the egg cracked open during the night, and a little girl emerged. She grew rapidly, transforming into a beautiful 18-year-old maiden, charming and graceful, and called the elderly couple her parents.
The couple, overjoyed, named her “Shuimei,” meaning Water Sister. However, their happiness was short-lived, as a wicked landlord, accompanied by his henchmen, sought to capture Shuimei. In a desperate fight to protect her, the elderly couple bravely confronted the landlord. The old man sustained severe injuries, and in her anguish, Shuimei revealed her true identity to her adoptive parents: she was the daughter of the Dragon King of the East Sea, born from a dragon egg during a visit to Huangshan.
Upon learning this, Shuimei transformed into a giant dragon, sweeping the landlord and his henchmen into the water. She then carried her injured adoptive father on her back and set off for the East Sea in search of medicine. As she flew away, she frequently glanced back at her adoptive mother, and each glance formed a waterfall and pool, creating the stunning Nine Dragons Waterfall and its accompanying nine pools.
Today, the ninth pool of the Nine Dragons Waterfall is known as Dragon Girl Pool, a name steeped in the legend of Shuimei and her incredible journey, forever linking her story to this enchanting natural wonder.
Long Chan Temple (龙禅院)
Long Chan Temple, located in the Nine Dragons Waterfall scenic area, beautifully embodies the fusion of Chinese dragon culture and the natural landscapes of Huangshan Mountain. Originally named Yunyang Xiange, this stone structure is said to have been built by Emperor Huang, who dispatched Mr. Yunyang to raise dragons in this area. It later became a site for meditation and celestial offerings after Emperor Qianlong visited incognito and practiced Zen there. In honor of his visit, the temple was constructed, commonly referred to as Long Wang Ge (Dragon King’s Pavilion).
The remnants of the ancient monks’ Long Chan Temple still exist today, including the “Ancient Pagoda Site of Long Chan Temple,” a stone tablet, and a small cottage. Standing at the temple entrance, visitors are greeted by the sight of incense burning and the aroma of smoke swirling in the air. The tree branches are adorned with vibrant red cloth strips, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere that captivates the senses.
Qianlong Imperial Road (乾隆御道)
The Qianlong Imperial Road stretches for 5,000 meters and served as the primary access route for ascending Huangshan Mountain during ancient times. This historic pathway begins at the “Huangshan Shengjing” archway by Kuuzhu Creek and runs alongside the right side of the Nine Dragons Waterfall. It passes significant landmarks such as Kai Men Stone and the Ancestral Tablet, weaving through the picturesque bamboo forest before reaching Yun Gu Temple.
Historical records indicate that this road was constructed during the Qianlong era specifically to facilitate Emperor Qianlong’s journey to the southern regions of China. It was commissioned by Gao Jin, the then Governor-General of the Two Jiang Provinces, to create an impressive route for the emperor’s visit.
The “Huangshan Shengjing” Archway (黄山胜境坊) is a stone monument built by Gao Jin, the Governor-General of the Two Jiang Provinces, to welcome Emperor Qianlong during his visit to Huangshan. Located at the entrance of the current road, this ancient stone archway holds significant historical value. Originally, the stone archway suffered damage over the years, but efforts were made to restore it by collecting fragments from local farmers’ homes.
Hiking Guide to Nine Dragon Waterfalls
Trail Summary
- Starting Point: Nine Dragon Waterfalls Scenic Area Entrance
- Key Stops:
- Longnv Pool (龙女潭)
- Xuanyuan Palace (轩辕宫)
- Qinglong Stream (青龙涧)
- Ninth Waterfall (第九瀑)
- Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Waterfalls (第四五六瀑)
- Estimated Hiking Time: Approximately 2 hours (round-trip, including time for photos)
- Location: The Nine Dragon Waterfalls are located about 5 kilometers from the South Gate of Huangshan Scenic Area, making it easily accessible by car or shuttle.
Essential Gear
To ensure a comfortable and safe hike, it is recommended to bring:
- Sturdy hiking shoes: The trail can be slippery, especially near the waterfalls.
- Gloves: To help with grip on rocks.
- Backpack: For water and snacks.
- ID: Carry identification for entry.
- Water & Snacks: Essential for staying hydrated and energized.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Safety: While photographing the waterfalls, be cautious of your surroundings. Pay attention to where you step, especially near wet rocks.
- Trail Sections: When reaching the Ninth Waterfall, don’t be deceived by the seemingly “last” waterfall—further cascades like the Eighth and Seventh Waterfalls still lie ahead.
- Unopened Sections: The First and Second Waterfalls are not yet open to the public, but there’s hope that these will be accessible in the future.
- For Those Afraid of Heights: If you are afraid of heights, the section known as Jiyu Bei (鲫鱼背) might be daunting. The path is narrow and high up, offering beautiful but intense views.