Hukou Waterfall Yellow River
Witness the thunderous power of China's second-largest waterfall, a breathtaking spectacle on the Yellow River.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See rainbows in the mist!
Hukou Waterfall Yellow River
Best Time
See rainbows in the mist!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the thunderous power of China's second-largest waterfall, a breathtaking spectacle on the Yellow River.
"Amazing & spectacular waterfall in Shanxi. View from Shanxi side, not from Shaanxi side. Big different for viewing pleasure."
Choose Your Province
Shanxi side offers cliff views, Shaanxi is ground-level. Pick your perspective!
Dress for the Mist
You'll get wet! Bring a poncho or waterproofs. Sturdy shoes are essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic Hukou Waterfall
Yellow River
Witness the raw power of China's second-largest waterfall, a breathtaking spectacle of the Yellow River's might.

Rainbows in the Mist
Near the waterfall
On sunny days, catch a glimpse of vibrant rainbows forming in the waterfall's dense spray – a magical sight.

Dragon Cave Viewpoint
Shanxi side
Experience an especially good view from the Dragon Cave, offering a unique perspective of the waterfall's grandeur.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Choose Your Viewing Province Wisely
Prepare for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Choose Your Province
Shanxi side offers cliff views, Shaanxi is ground-level. Pick your perspective!
Dress for the Mist
You'll get wet! Bring a poncho or waterproofs. Sturdy shoes are essential.
Around Xi'an for two weeks
Book Transport Ahead
Especially if you don't speak Chinese, arrange travel in advance.
Photo Ops with Donkeys
Rent traditional outfits and take photos with donkeys or horses for a unique souvenir.
Tips
from all over the internet
Choose Your Province
Shanxi side offers cliff views, Shaanxi is ground-level. Pick your perspective!
Dress for the Mist
You'll get wet! Bring a poncho or waterproofs. Sturdy shoes are essential.
Book Transport Ahead
Especially if you don't speak Chinese, arrange travel in advance.
Photo Ops with Donkeys
Rent traditional outfits and take photos with donkeys or horses for a unique souvenir.
Taste the Local Fish
Don't miss the delicious fish at restaurants near the waterfall parking area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hukou Waterfall for its spectacular and impressive natural beauty, often comparing it to a mini Niagara. The powerful spray and the chance to see rainbows in the mist are highlights. However, some note the importance of preparing for wet conditions and the need for organized transportation, especially for non-Chinese speakers.
"Amazing & spectacular waterfall in Shanxi. View from Shanxi side, not from Shaanxi side. Big different for viewing pleasure."
Joe Peck
"This waterfall is impressive! Beautiful to be exact.
Was there 2 weeks ago and it was hot, wet, sandy all at once!
If you don't mind being a little muddy here and there go and have all the fun! But if you do, you'd probably need a poncho of sorts.
There were little donkeys or horses for you to out on a traditional outfit and take pics with too.
Transportation there was easy as we got to go with Xiao Li travel agency. 2.5hrs from linfen by coach. Was pleasant. A must see!
I would advise that transportation and travel arrangements be made prior to this outdoor excursion especially for non chinese speaking visitors though.. and also for those of us who would think it would be easy and ok to do so when we are already here.
Loads of fruits and food places nearby too!
We had lunch at a restaurant by the big white hotel and coach parking and it was good too! The fish is a must eat!"
Yeanne Huddleston
"Very impressive. Beautiful rainbow developing in the mist in sunlight. View especially good from the dragon cave. A mini version of Niagara falls."
DX TAN
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hukou Waterfall is accessible from both Shanxi and Shaanxi provinces. Many visitors arrange transportation through travel agencies like Xiao Li travel, which offer coaches from nearby cities like Linfen (approx. 2.5 hours). For non-Chinese speakers, booking transport in advance is highly recommended to avoid difficulties.
While possible, it can be challenging, especially for those who don't speak Chinese. Public transport options exist but may require multiple transfers. Arranging a private driver or joining a tour group is often more convenient.
The Shanxi side offers more dramatic, elevated views from cliff ledges, while the Shaanxi side provides ground-level access. Both offer unique perspectives of the waterfall.
Yes, Hukou Waterfall can be visited as a day trip from nearby cities like Linfen or even Xi'an, though it's a long day from Xi'an. Many tours are structured as day excursions.
Travel agencies offer coach services from Linfen to Hukou Waterfall, typically taking around 2.5 hours. This is a popular and convenient option for many visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary, but typically range from 60-100 CNY per person. It's advisable to check the latest pricing closer to your visit.
Generally, a single ticket grants access to the main viewing areas. However, specific viewpoints or attractions within each side might have separate small fees.
Hukou Waterfall is typically open year-round, with hours often extending from early morning to late afternoon. It's best to confirm exact times before your visit, as they can change seasonally.
While not always necessary, purchasing tickets in advance through a tour operator or a local travel agency can streamline your entry, especially during peak seasons.
Yes, there is usually a fee for renting traditional outfits and taking photos with the donkeys or horses. Negotiate the price beforehand.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven and slippery. Given the waterfall's mist, waterproof clothing or a poncho is highly recommended to stay dry.
Yes, it's very likely you will get wet from the waterfall's spray, especially if you get close to the edge. Embrace the experience and prepare to be misted!
The Shanxi side offers excellent cliffside views, and the Dragon Cave viewpoint is particularly praised for its perspective. The Shaanxi side provides a ground-level appreciation of the waterfall's power.
While the main attraction is the waterfall itself, children might enjoy the novelty of the mist and the opportunity for photos with local animals like donkeys.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the waterfall, explore different viewpoints, and take photos. If you're traveling from a distance, factor in travel time.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are restaurants located near the main coach parking area, often associated with hotels. These offer local cuisine.
The fish dishes are highly recommended by visitors. Enjoying a meal with a view of the Yellow River can enhance the experience.
Yes, you'll find various food stalls and vendors selling snacks, fruits, and drinks around the tourist area.
Prices are generally reasonable for tourist areas, but it's always good to check menus and prices before ordering.
Bringing your own snacks and water is usually permitted and can be a good way to save money, especially if you plan to spend a longer time exploring.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon, especially on sunny days, is ideal for capturing the waterfall's grandeur and the potential for rainbows in the mist.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the waterfall. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections and enhance colors. A waterproof camera or protective casing is advisable due to the mist.
Yes, both the Shanxi and Shaanxi sides offer unique photographic perspectives. The Shanxi side provides dramatic elevated shots, while the Shaanxi side offers a powerful ground-level view.
Visit on a sunny day and position yourself where the mist is thickest. The sun's angle relative to the mist is key to seeing and photographing the rainbows.
Consider capturing the scale by including people in your shots, or focus on the textures and patterns of the churning water. The traditional outfits with donkeys also offer unique cultural photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds, the novelty of the environment and the opportunity for unique photos, perhaps with local donkeys or horses, can add to the fun. Consider booking a tour that includes transportation, as this simplifies logistics for families. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as options within the immediate vicinity might be limited or tourist-priced.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for the spray – a waterproof camera or a protective rain cover for your gear is essential. Visiting during the late afternoon on a sunny day maximizes the chances of capturing those coveted rainbow shots. Experiment with different viewpoints from both the Shanxi and Shaanxi sides to get varied perspectives. The Dragon Cave viewpoint on the Shanxi side is particularly noted for its photographic potential.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Hukou Experience: Shanxi vs. Shaanxi
Conversely, the Shaanxi side offers a more ground-level encounter with the waterfall. While it might lack the dramatic elevation of the Shanxi side, it allows visitors to feel the immense power and spray of the water more directly. This perspective can be incredibly immersive, giving you a visceral sense of the Yellow River's force. Travelers often recommend visiting both sides if time permits to fully appreciate the waterfall's multifaceted beauty, though many find the Shanxi side offers a more visually spectacular experience.
Regardless of which side you choose, be prepared for the elements. The powerful spray from the waterfall creates a constant mist, making the surrounding areas wet and sometimes muddy. This is part of the authentic Hukou experience, so embrace it! Visitors often suggest wearing waterproof clothing or bringing a poncho to stay comfortable. Sturdy, non-slip footwear is also essential for navigating the potentially slippery paths and viewing platforms.
Navigating Your Journey to Hukou Waterfall
For those who prefer to travel independently, public transport is an option, but it can be more complex. This might involve taking buses to specific towns and then arranging local transport to the waterfall. Booking transportation in advance is a crucial tip, particularly for visitors who do not speak Chinese, as it can significantly simplify the travel process and prevent potential communication barriers.
When considering your visit, think about the time of day. While the waterfall is impressive throughout the day, visiting during sunny afternoons can be particularly rewarding. This is when the mist from the falls interacts with sunlight to create beautiful rainbows, adding a magical element to the already spectacular scenery. This timing also tends to coincide with peak visitor hours, so be prepared for crowds.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit