Tonglu Travel Guide Top 6 Stunning Attractions for Autumn

Hi, everyone, Feeling cooped up in an air-conditioned room lately, with tired eyes from staring at a computer screen all day? The endless noise and constant overtime in the city can really wear you down. But did you know the best way to spend this season isn’t in an office? It’s feeling the mountain breeze, the mist over the river, and the kitchen smoke rising from ancient villages. The moment you stand by the Fuchun River, you’ll suddenly realize that the breathtaking scenes from the ancient painting Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains really do exist!

If you’re looking for the perfect itinerary, the Tonglu Travel Guide has all the tips you need to explore this hidden gem. So, what are you waiting for? Come with me to Tonglu, and feel like you’re stepping right into an ink painting. Let the vibrant colors of autumn, the light mist on the river, and the stone paths in the old villages wash all your worries away and carry them down the Fuchun River!

Table Of Contents

1. Fuchun River Lesser Three Gorges: The Real-Life Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains

The masterpiece that artist Huang Gongwang spent seven years creating is right here in front of you. On an autumn morning, a fine mist blankets the river, and the lush green hills on both banks stretch on and on. Egrets fly low over the water. As you cruise along the river on a painted boat, it feels like you’re gliding into a living, thousand-year-old ink painting.

Suggested Route: Start by climbing Yan Ziling’s Fishing Platform for a panoramic view, then take a leisurely boat ride on the river. Finally, head to Dongtai to overlook the “First Bend of the Fuchun River”—a spot that even celebrities like Deng Chao and Sun Li have visited!
How to Get There: It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Hangzhou. You can also take a high-speed train to Tonglu Station and then transfer to the “Fuchun River Line 2” bus.
Local Delicacies:
- Steamed Tongjiang Mandarin Fish: The fish is incredibly fresh, so fresh it’s said to make your eyebrows fall off! (A colorful way of saying it’s delicious.)
- Braised Pork Belly in Steamed Fermented Rice Buns: Be sure to get this at Yu’s Mung Bean Cake Shop. The taste is absolutely amazing.
Where to Stay: You can stay at a guesthouse in Luciwai Bay next to Yan Ziling’s Fishing Platform. Rooms are around ¥300 per night, and you can wake up to the beautiful river mist right outside your window.
Autumn Temperatures: The average temperature is between 18°C and 22°C. The river breeze can be a bit chilly, so bring a light jacket.
Visitor Reviews: A recent visitor said, “Waiting for the sunrise at the fishing platform, the view of the mist covering the river was so beautiful it took my breath away!”
Estimated Cost: The ticket and boat fare are about ¥125. A full day here costs around ¥400 per person.

2. Daqi Mountain National Forest Park: A “Little Jiuzhaigou”

This place is known as the “Little Jiuzhaigou of Jiangnan”! In autumn, the maple leaves turn the valley red. The emerald-green pools formed by the streams and waterfalls look like jade jewels set in the mountains. The mountaintop Heavenly Pool reflects the clouds and shadows from the sky. As you walk along the stone path through the bamboo forest, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the world of The Wizard of Oz.

Suggested Route: Start at Jinniu Pool, then move on to Qingqing World, and take photos at the Heavenly Pool. Finish your trip with the thrilling “Forest Flying Mouse” slide down the mountain.
How to Get There: A taxi from Tonglu County is about ¥15. You can also take the “Daqi Mountain Line” bus directly to the park entrance.
Local Delicacies: Try the spring water-chilled watermelon at the mountaintop “Stone House.” It’s ¥15 a slice and is incredibly sweet and refreshing, perfect for a break.
Where to Stay: Stay at the Xishan Shendu guesthouse next to the park. Rooms are around ¥400 per night. You can fall asleep to the sound of the stream, which is very relaxing.
Autumn Temperatures: The average temperature is between 16°C and 20°C. Remember to wear non-slip shoes when hiking to avoid falling.
Visitor Reviews: A visitor commented, “The water here is so blue it looks like a filter has been added. When I posted pictures, everyone asked if I went to Jiuzhaigou!”
Estimated Cost: The entrance ticket is ¥52. A full day here costs about ¥300 per person.

3. Yaolin Wonderland: An Underground Fantasy Palace

This is the largest limestone cave in East China! The cave maintains a constant temperature of 18°C, so it’s comfortable no matter how hot or cold it is outside. Under the 3D light show, the stalactites look like the Milky Way flowing down from the sky. Exploring the cave in autumn feels like you’re journeying into an alien world from the movie Avatar.

Suggested Route: See the “Milky Way Waterfall” first, then visit the spot where the 1986 TV series Journey to the West was filmed. You can also try a night tour of the cave wearing traditional Chinese clothing and carrying a lantern—it’s great for photos!
How to Get There: Take the “Yaolin Line” bus from the Tonglu Bus Station. The fare is only ¥10 per person.
Local Delicacies:
- Roasted sweet potatoes are sold at the cave entrance for ¥5 each. They’re great for warming your hands and tasting sweet, perfect for autumn.
- Yaolin Crispy Cakes: The cakes with preserved vegetable and pork filling are especially authentic.
Where to Stay: Stay at the Red Lantern Cottage in Yaolin Town. Rooms are about ¥200 per night, and you can enjoy the peaceful countryside away from city noise.
Autumn Temperatures: The cave is a constant 18°C. Outside, the average temperature is around 20°C, so you may need to adjust your layers when entering or leaving the cave.
Visitor Reviews: A visitor shared, “The 3D light show was so stunning it gave me goosebumps. My kids were yelling ‘Wow!’ the whole time, they were so excited!”
Estimated Cost: The entrance ticket is ¥116. A full day here costs about ¥250 per person.

4. Shishe Village: Slowing Down in a 400-Year-Old Village

This is a 400-year-old village from the Ming and Qing dynasties, built right next to a stream. In autumn, the leaves of the ancient camphor trees turn yellow and drift down. The stream flows right through the village. You’ll see grandmothers sitting at their doors weaving baskets. Here, time seems to slow down.

Suggested Route: Hike the Maling Ancient Trail to enjoy the mountain scenery, then play in the stream. Finally, try making the local intangible cultural heritage food, “Rice-Sieve Noodles”—a great way to enjoy a hands-on experience.
How to Get There: It’s about a 1-hour drive from Hangzhou. You can also take a high-speed train to Tonglu Station and then a taxi, which costs about ¥50.
Local Delicacies:
- “Rice-Sieve Noodles”: A bowl of these noodles in a flavorful pork broth with fresh vegetables is a local specialty for ¥25.
- Grey Ash Rice Dumplings: These are a local specialty with a different, chewier texture than regular rice dumplings. Worth a try!
Where to Stay: Stay in one of the traditional rammed-earth guesthouses in the village. Rooms are about ¥200 per night. You can listen to the sounds of insects at night and see the morning mist over the mountains.
Autumn Temperatures: The average temperature is between 15°C and 19°C. If you plan to play in the stream, bring a pair of slippers to change into.
Visitor Reviews: A visitor said, “I found an art installation called ‘Falling Leaf Rabbit’ on the Maling Ancient Trail. It was a rabbit made of fallen leaves—so creative and romantic. It was a wonderful surprise!”
Estimated Cost: This is a free attraction. Including food, a full day here can cost as little as ¥50 per person (excluding accommodation).

5. Chuiyun Sky River: Underground Adventure and Glass Rafting

Take a boat ride into an underground river where stalactites hang down so close you feel like you can touch them. The 1.5-kilometer glass slide winds down through the forest. In the autumn sun, the light shines through the trees and the water splashing on the slide creates beautiful rainbows!

Suggested Route: Start with the underground boat tour, then try the “Earth’s Core Exploration Team” project for some adventure. Next, ride the thrilling glass slide, and finally, take photos at the Angel’s Wing Observation Deck.
How to Get There: It’s about a 1-hour drive from Hangzhou. Navigate to “Chuiyun Sky River.” Parking is free and convenient.
Local Delicacies:
- Bamboo Rice: The rice cooked in a bamboo tube at the park entrance is delicious, with a fresh bamboo aroma. It’s ¥20 per portion and quite filling.
- Cave-Aged Rice Wine: A local wine aged in a special way, with a rich, mellow flavor.
Where to Stay: Stay at a guesthouse in Yaolin Town, which offers great value at around ¥180 per night. Alternatively, stay in Tonglu County for more options and easier transport.
Autumn Temperatures: The average temperature is around 18°C. You will get splashed on the glass slide, so bring a change of clothes.
Visitor Reviews: A visitor exclaimed, “I screamed on the turns during the glass slide, my voice was cracking, but the next second I couldn’t stop laughing. It was so much fun!”
Estimated Cost: The combo ticket (including admission and rafting) is ¥199. A full day here costs about ¥350 per person.

6. Baiyunyuan: A Quiet and Beautiful Forest Wonderland

This area is a primeval forest with wild waterfalls, rope bridges, and deep pools. In autumn, the leaves turn vibrant colors. It’s also a great place to spot wild deer! From the top of Guanyin Peak, you can see the Fuchun River stretching out like a ribbon of green jade—it’s a truly magnificent sight.

Suggested Route: Take the shuttle bus from Longmenwan, hike to see the Big Longmen Waterfall, and finish by waiting for the sunset at Guanyin Peak. The scenery at dusk is breathtaking.
How to Get There: You can charter a car from Tonglu County for about ¥150 round trip. You can also drive yourself, but the mountain roads can be a bit challenging, so drive carefully.
Local Delicacies:
- Farmhouse Chicken Stew: A pot costs ¥88. The chicken is tender, and the rich, golden soup is incredibly flavorful and warming, perfect for a cool autumn day.
- Stir-fried Wild Bamboo Shoots with Cured Pork: The wild bamboo shoots are tender, and the local cured pork is delicious. This dish is very flavorful and pairs perfectly with rice.
Where to Stay: Stay at the Yuanxiang Guesthouse in Baiyunyuan. Rooms are around ¥300 per night. You can see the mountain mist right outside your window, making it feel like you’re in a fairy tale.
Autumn Temperatures: The average temperature is between 14°C and 18°C. When hiking, bring a light backpack with essentials.
Visitor Reviews: A visitor wrote, “I drank the water straight from the waterfall. It was sweeter than bottled water from the supermarket. It felt so pure!”
Estimated Cost: The entrance ticket is ¥65. A full day here costs about ¥280 per person.

7. Don’t Miss These Highlights

Sunrise at Fuchun River Lesser Three Gorges: Wait for the sunrise at Yan Ziling’s Fishing Platform. The mist slowly lifts as the sun rises, turning the river golden. It’s an unforgettable sight.
The “Forest Flying Mouse” Slide at Daqi Mountain: Glide down the mountain while enjoying the thrilling ride and the beautiful bamboo forest scenery. It’s a favorite for both adults and kids.
3D Light Show at Yaolin Wonderland: The 3D lighting makes the stalactites look alive. It feels like watching a fantasy movie and is truly impressive.
“Rice-Sieve Noodles” Making at Shishe Village: Make a local specialty with your own hands. It’s not just a delicious meal but a meaningful cultural experience.
Glass Rafting at Chuiyun Sky River: The 1.5-kilometer slide through the forest is both thrilling and fun. It’s a must-do, and you might even see rainbows in the splashes!
Spotting Deer at Baiyunyuan: Walking in the primeval forest, you have a good chance of seeing wild deer. The surprise of a close encounter is a special memory (remember to be safe and don’t frighten the deer).

8. Opening Hours

Fuchun River Lesser Three Gorges: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. It’s best to arrive before 9 AM to see the beautiful morning mist.
Daqi Mountain National Forest Park: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM. No entry after 4 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
Yaolin Wonderland: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM. Night tours are usually from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Check with the scenic area for specific times.
Shishe Village: Open all day. The village has a different charm during the day and at night. The evenings are quieter and perfect for a stroll.
Chuiyun Sky River: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Glass rafting is heavily affected by weather; it may be closed during rain, so check the forecast beforehand.
Baiyunyuan: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. To see the sunset at Guanyin Peak, it’s best to start your ascent before 3 PM to avoid being on the mountain after dark.

9. Ticket Information

Attraction Name	Ticket Price	Other Fees	Notes
Fuchun River Lesser Three Gorges	Ticket + boat fare: ¥125	None	Free for children under 1.2 meters. Half price for children between 1.2 and 1.4 meters.
Daqi Mountain National Forest Park	¥52	“Forest Flying Mouse” slide is a separate fee, around ¥30 per person.	Students get half price with a student ID.
Yaolin Wonderland	¥116	Hanfu rental: ¥20/hour. Lantern: ¥5/each.	Seniors over 60 get half price with an ID card.
Shishe Village	Free	“Rice-Sieve Noodles” making experience: ¥25 per person (includes ingredients).	No extra admission fee.
Chuiyun Sky River	Combo ticket: ¥199 (includes admission + glass rafting)	No extra fee for the underground river boat ride.	Children under 1.4 meters must be accompanied by an adult for rafting.
Baiyunyuan	¥65	Shuttle bus: ¥20 per person (mandatory as the scenic area entrance is far from the attractions).	Soldiers with a military ID get free admission.

10. Getting Around

Getting to Tonglu

High-Speed Train: This is the most convenient way. A 30-minute train ride from Hangzhou East Station to Tonglu Station costs around ¥40. The station is close to all the main attractions.
Driving: It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Hangzhou via the Changshen Expressway. It’s a beautiful drive from Shanghai, which takes about 3 hours.
Bus: There are frequent buses from Hangzhou West Bus Station to Tonglu, with departures every 30 minutes. The trip takes about 1.5 hours and costs around ¥35.

Getting Around Tonglu

Public Bus: Tonglu’s bus routes cover the main attractions, like the “Fuchun River Line 2” to the Fuchun River Lesser Three Gorges, the “Daqi Mountain Line,” and the “Yaolin Line.” Fares are cheap, usually under ¥10.
Taxi/Ride-Sharing: Taxis are easy to find in Tonglu County. The starting fare is ¥6. A ride to a nearby attraction like Daqi Mountain National Forest Park is about ¥15. Trips to more distant places like Shishe Village or Baiyunyuan can cost anywhere from ¥50 to ¥150.
E-bike Rental: E-bikes are available for rent near Tonglu Station for around ¥50 a day. They are light and convenient for exploring the villages and countryside near the county seat. Parking is also easy at many attractions.
Chartering a Car: If you’re with a group (3 or more people), you can charter a car for a day, which costs about ¥200-¥300. The driver will know the best routes, saving you time and allowing you to stop for photos whenever you want.

11. Food Recommendations

Local Signature Dishes

Steamed Tongjiang Mandarin Fish: The fish from the Fuchun River is tender and delicate. Steaming it preserves its natural flavor. For the freshest taste, eat this at a riverside restaurant.
Farmhouse Chicken Stew: The free-range chickens from Baiyunyuan and Shishe Village are incredibly flavorful. The rich, golden soup is perfect for a cool autumn day. You can also add dried bamboo shoots or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Stir-fried Wild Bamboo Shoots with Cured Pork: This dish is a local favorite. The tender wild bamboo shoots and savory homemade cured pork are a perfect match and go great with rice.
Rice-Sieve Noodles: This is a local heritage dish from Shishe Village. The noodles have a unique spiral shape and a delightful, chewy texture. They are served in a fresh pork broth with vegetables.

Local Snacks

Braised Pork Belly in Steamed Fermented Rice Buns: A specialty from Yu’s Mung Bean Cake Shop. The soft, sweet steamed bun with the rich, savory pork belly is a perfect combination that isn’t greasy.
Yaolin Crispy Cakes: These crispy cakes with a preserved vegetable and pork filling are so good you’ll want to keep eating them. They are perfect as a snack and make a great souvenir.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: A classic autumn treat sold at the Yaolin Wonderland cave entrance. They’re roasted over charcoal, and the result is a sweet, warm, and comforting snack for just ¥5.
Bamboo Rice: Found at the Chuiyun Sky River entrance, this rice is steamed in a bamboo tube with ingredients like cured pork, mushrooms, and peas. The rice absorbs the fragrant bamboo flavor. It’s a delicious and filling snack for ¥20.
Grey Ash Rice Dumplings: A unique type of dumpling from Shishe Village, cooked with a special water made from rice straw ash. This gives the dumplings a slightly yellow color and a chewier texture. They come in both sweet and savory fillings.

Night Market Food

Head to Dalian Road Night Market, the liveliest night market in Tonglu County. It’s busiest from 6 PM to 10 PM.

Grilled Rice Cakes: For just ¥5 a stick, these rice cakes are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. They are brushed with a sweet and spicy sauce and are a very popular night market snack.
Iron Plate Squid: For ¥10, you get three skewers of fresh, chewy squid grilled on a hot plate and seasoned with cumin and chili powder. The aroma is amazing!
Ice Jelly: A refreshing dessert for ¥8 a bowl, great for cooling down or cutting through the richness of other foods. It’s topped with brown sugar syrup, crushed peanuts, raisins, and haw flakes.
Herbal Pastries: You can buy these at Tongjuntang. For ¥10 a box, these soft, chewy pastries are made with traditional Chinese herbs, giving them a subtle medicinal aroma. They also make a thoughtful gift to bring home.

12. Suggested Itineraries

One-Day Trip Ideas

Fuchun River Lesser Three Gorges + Shishe Village: Start at 8 AM at the Fuchun River Lesser Three Gorges. Take a boat ride and climb Yan Ziling’s Fishing Platform, which takes about 3 hours. For lunch, enjoy steamed mandarin fish at a riverside restaurant. At 2 PM, head to Shishe Village to hike the Maling Ancient Trail and try making “rice-sieve noodles.” Enjoy the sunset in the village before staying at a local guesthouse.
Daqi Mountain + Chuiyun Sky River: Go to Daqi Mountain at 9 AM. Hike and enjoy the scenery before riding the “Forest Flying Mouse” slide, which takes about 4 hours. Have watermelon at the “Stone House” on the mountain, or go down to the county for some farmhouse dishes. At 3 PM, head to Chuiyun Sky River to explore the underground river and ride the glass slide. Return to the county for the night and visit the Dalian Road Night Market for snacks.

Multi-Day Trip Ideas (3 Days, 2 Nights)

Day 1: Arrive in Tonglu, check into your hotel, and head to Yaolin Wonderland in the afternoon. Enjoy the 3D light show and the night tour in traditional Chinese clothing. For dinner, try roasted sweet potatoes and Yaolin crispy cakes, then stay in Yaolin Town.
Day 2: In the morning, go to the Fuchun River Lesser Three Gorges to see the morning mist and climb the fishing platform. Have braised pork belly in a steamed fermented rice bun at a restaurant in Luciwai Bay for lunch. In the afternoon, visit Baiyunyuan to hike to the waterfall and watch the sunset at Guanyin Peak. Stay at a guesthouse in Baiyunyuan and fall asleep to the sound of the stream.
Day 3: In the morning, explore Shishe Village and wade in the stream. Have “rice-sieve noodles” for lunch. In the afternoon, go to Chuiyun Sky River for the glass slide before heading home.

Best Time to Visit

While Tonglu is beautiful year-round, the best time to visit is from late October to early November. The leaves along the Fuchun River change to red, yellow, and green, the maple leaves on Daqi Mountain turn the valley red, and the ancient camphor trees in Shishe Village shed their yellow leaves. The entire region becomes a canvas of color. After the National Day holiday, crowds are smaller, so you won’t have to wait in line, and accommodation prices are lower, making it a great value.

13. Accommodation Recommendations

By Location

Near Fuchun River Lesser Three Gorges:
- Luciwai Bay Guesthouse: Prices start from ¥300/night. You can see the river mist from your window, and some rooms have balconies for watching the sunrise. The guesthouse serves a special local breakfast with rice porridge, pickles, and grey ash rice dumplings. Book at least 2 weeks in advance during peak season (Oct-Nov) due to its popularity.
- Tiankong Miling Guesthouse: Prices start from ¥450/night. The rooms feature a modern Chinese style with large floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a scenic landscape. The guesthouse has a lovely courtyard for having tea and relaxing in the evening, and the owner can suggest less-traveled routes.
Near Daqi Mountain National Forest Park:
- Xishan Shendu Guesthouse: Prices start from ¥400/night. It’s just a 5-minute walk from the park entrance, which is great for early-morning entry. A stream runs beside the guesthouse. The rooms are clean, and the owner is welcoming and will help with luggage.
- Qinglan Guesthouse: Prices start from ¥350/night. This guesthouse offers great value and has family rooms perfect for those with kids. It has a small garden with flowers and orange trees, and guests can pick oranges for free in the fall. The homemade egg pancakes for breakfast are delicious.
Near Yaolin Wonderland:
- Red Lantern Cottage: Prices start from ¥200/night. This is a quaint, country-style cottage with distinctive red walls and black tiles. The surroundings are peaceful and great for stargazing, and it’s just a 10-minute drive to Yaolin Wonderland.
- Yaolin Shanju Guesthouse: Prices start from ¥300/night. The guesthouse has its own restaurant serving authentic farmhouse dishes like stir-fried wild bamboo shoots with cured pork and chicken stew. Rooms have both air conditioning and heating, making it comfortable in autumn. The owner also provides sightseeing tips to help you avoid crowds.
Near Shishe Village:
- Rammed Earth Guesthouse: Prices start from ¥200/night. Built with local rammed earth, this guesthouse has a charming, rustic feel. The wooden furniture is high-quality, and the guesthouse is located by the stream, where you can hear the sounds of insects at night.
- Yunxi Guesthouse: Prices start from ¥350/night. Located at the head of the village, it offers great views of the entire area. There’s a terrace where you can have tea and watch the sunset. The owner organizes “rice-sieve noodle” making sessions, which guests love.

Tips for Finding Accommodation

Book Early: Guesthouses, especially in Shishe Village and Luciwai Bay, can get fully booked on weekends and during peak season (Oct-Nov). Book 2-3 weeks in advance to avoid disappointment.
Check for Transport: Ask if the guesthouse offers pickup and drop-off services from Tonglu Station. Some offer this for free, which can save you money.
Choose Based on Vibe: If you prefer quiet, choose a guesthouse away from the county like those in Baiyunyuan or Shishe Village. If you want a lively atmosphere and easy access to the night market, stay in Tonglu County, particularly near the Dalian Road Night Market.
For Families: If you’re traveling with kids, look for guesthouses with family rooms, like Qinglan Guesthouse near Daqi Mountain, which offers spacious rooms and toys for kids.

14. Visiting Tips

Fuchun River Lesser Three Gorges: For the best photos of the morning mist, arrive before 8 AM. Wear comfortable shoes for climbing Yan Ziling’s Fishing Platform, as the steps are steep. Sit on the second-floor deck of the painted boat for a better view.
Daqi Mountain National Forest Park: Bring water, as it’s more expensive on the mountain. Wear non-slip shoes, especially after rain. If you have kids, don’t let them go near the streams alone. Follow staff instructions and fasten your seatbelt on the “Forest Flying Mouse” slide.
Yaolin Wonderland: The cave is dimly lit and can be slippery. Bring a flashlight (your phone’s works fine) and walk slowly. For the best view of the 3D light show, find a spot in the middle. If you rent traditional Chinese clothing for the night tour, light-colored clothes look best in the cave lighting.
Shishe Village: Be respectful of the villagers and their homes. Don’t make a lot of noise. When hiking the Maling Ancient Trail, bring snacks, as there are no shops along the way. When making “rice-sieve noodles,” follow the locals’ steps—it’s easy to learn!
Chuiyun Sky River: Wear quick-drying clothes for the glass slide to stay comfortable. If you wear glasses, use a strap to keep them from falling off. The underground river is cooler, so bring a light jacket.
Baiyunyuan: Take the shuttle bus. Don’t try to walk, as the distance is too great. Pay attention to signs on the hiking trails. For sunset at Guanyin Peak, bring a warm jacket, as it gets cold quickly after the sun sets. If you see a deer, don’t chase or feed it. Take photos without a flash to avoid scaring it.

15. Must-See & Must-Do List

Natural Sights

“The First Bend of the Fuchun River” at Fuchun River Lesser Three Gorges: This is the famous spot visited by Deng Chao and Sun Li. The view from Dongtai is like a scroll painting, with the winding river and surrounding green hills. It’s a must-photograph spot.
The Heavenly Pool at Daqi Mountain National Forest Park: The calm, mirror-like pool on the mountaintop reflects the sky and trees. The water is a beautiful blue on a sunny day.
The Big Longmen Waterfall at Baiyunyuan: This is a spectacular wild waterfall. You can stand at its base to feel the cool spray and even drink the fresh, sweet water.
The Underground River at Chuiyun Sky River: The boat ride through the underground river is a unique experience. The unique stalactites lit by colorful lights make it feel like an otherworldly place.

Cultural Experiences

Traditional Chinese Clothing Night Tour at Yaolin Wonderland: Wearing traditional clothing and carrying a lantern in the cave is a magical experience. The light creates a beautiful atmosphere, perfect for photos.
“Rice-Sieve Noodles” Making at Shishe Village: This is a great hands-on way to experience local culture and a meaningful activity to do with kids.
History at Yan Ziling’s Fishing Platform: The platform was built to honor Yan Ziling, a hermit from the Eastern Han Dynasty. Exploring the historical sites and inscriptions here adds a deeper layer to your visit.

Thrill-Seeking Activities

“Forest Flying Mouse” Slide at Daqi Mountain National Forest Park: This slide takes you down the mountain at a fun, safe speed, letting you enjoy the bamboo forest scenery. It’s a favorite for all ages.
Glass Rafting at Chuiyun Sky River: The 1.5-kilometer slide through the forest is a thrilling ride with plenty of screams and laughs. The splashes of water can even create rainbows!

16. Practical Tips

What to Wear: Autumn temperatures in Tonglu can vary greatly. The mornings and evenings are cool, while midday is warm. Wear layers. A T-shirt with a windbreaker or a light jacket is a good idea. Wear a light jacket in the caves and bring a change of clothes for rafting.
What to Pack: Bring a light backpack with water, snacks, your phone, a power bank, and tissues. Wear comfortable sports shoes or hiking boots. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Pack a small umbrella or a disposable raincoat for unexpected rain.
How to Save Money: Buying combo tickets is cheaper than buying separate tickets. For example, the Chuiyun Sky River combo saves about ¥30. Having breakfast at your guesthouse is cheaper and more authentic than eating at a restaurant. Renting an e-bike is a cost-effective way to get around (around ¥50/day). Night markets are cheaper for snacks than scenic spots.
Photo Tips: For the best photos of the river mist, use your phone’s portrait mode or a camera with a large aperture to capture the layers of mist. In the cave, turn off your flash to avoid reflections. In Shishe Village, take photos in the morning or evening for soft, beautiful light. For the glass slide, have a friend at the bottom to capture the splashing water and rainbows.

17. Important Things to Note

Safety First: Stick to marked trails when hiking. Follow all safety instructions when rafting. Don’t go too close to streams or waterfalls. Drive slowly on mountain roads (like in Baiyunyuan).
Be Eco-Friendly: Don’t litter. Use the trash cans provided. Don’t pick wild flowers or leaves. Don’t touch stalactites in the caves, as this can damage them.
Respect Local Culture: Be respectful of the local villagers in places like Shishe Village. Don’t enter their homes without permission. When trying a local activity, listen to the instructors and don’t waste ingredients.
Check the Weather: Check the weather forecast before you go. Avoid hiking or rafting on rainy days. Drive carefully in the fog, especially in the mornings and evenings.

18. How to Get to Each Attraction

Fuchun River Lesser Three Gorges:
- From Tonglu Station: Take the “Fuchun River Line 2” bus (40 min, ¥5) or a taxi (20 min, approx. ¥30).
- From Tonglu County: Take a taxi (15 min, approx. ¥20) or rent an e-bike (30 min).
Daqi Mountain National Forest Park:
- From Tonglu Station: Taxi (25 min, approx. ¥35) or “Daqi Mountain Line” bus (50 min, ¥3).
- From Tonglu County: Walk (30 min), bike (15 min), or taxi (10 min, approx. ¥15).
Yaolin Wonderland:
- From Tonglu Station: Take a bus to Tonglu Bus Station, then transfer to the “Yaolin Line” bus (1 hour, total ¥12). A taxi takes about 50 minutes and costs around ¥80.
- From Tonglu County: Take the “Yaolin Line” bus from the bus station (45 min, ¥10). A chartered car is about ¥150 for a round trip.
Shishe Village:
- From Tonglu Station: Taxi (40 min, approx. ¥50) or a 30-minute drive. Parking is free.
- From Tonglu County: Rent an e-bike (1 hour) or take a taxi (30 min, approx. ¥40).
Chuiyun Sky River:
- From Tonglu Station: Drive (35 min). Parking is free. Taxi (40 min, approx. ¥60).
- From Tonglu County: Take the “Chuiyun Line” bus (55 min, ¥8) or a taxi (25 min, approx. ¥30).
Baiyunyuan:
- From Tonglu Station: Chartered car (1 hour, ¥150 round trip) or a 50-minute drive (mountain roads).
- From Tonglu County: A chartered car is the easiest option (round trip ¥150). A special bus service is also available, departing at 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, and 2:00 PM (1 hour, ¥15).

19. Recommended Nearby Attractions

Yan Ziling’s Fishing Platform: Located within the Fuchun River Lesser Three Gorges scenic area, this site is historically significant as the place where the hermit Yan Ziling lived and fished. It has historical relics and is great for history buffs.
Luci Village: This beautiful village is close to the Fuchun River Lesser Three Gorges. It has many guesthouses and restaurants. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow and the stream is clear, making it perfect for a relaxing walk.
Shenaocun Ancient Village: This quiet 800-year-old village has well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings. It’s great for those who want to avoid crowds and learn about historical architecture.
Tianzi Land Scenic Area: Not far from Yaolin Wonderland, this area has a cave, waterfalls, and a glass walkway. The glass walkway on a cliff offers a stunning view of the valley below, and the maple leaves turn red in autumn.
Hecun Shengxianli Ski Resort: If you’re visiting in winter, this ski resort opens after December. It’s one of the largest in the region and is great for skiers and non-skiers alike.

20. FAQs

Which attractions are suitable for seniors?
- The Fuchun River Lesser Three Gorges and Yaolin Wonderland are good choices. The river cruise doesn’t require much walking, and the cave has a comfortable temperature and flat paths. Daqi Mountain and Baiyunyuan require more hiking. The glass slide at Chuiyun Sky River is also not recommended for seniors.
What are some fun activities for kids?
- Kids will love the “Forest Flying Mouse” slide at Daqi Mountain and the glass rafting at Chuiyun Sky River. They can experience the magical atmosphere of the 3D light show and night tour in the cave at Yaolin Wonderland. The “rice-sieve noodles” making in Shishe Village is a fun, hands-on activity. They might also get a chance to see deer in Baiyunyuan.
What local foods are kid-friendly?
- Kids will likely enjoy steamed mandarin fish (fewer bones, tender meat), sweet and soft steamed fermented rice buns, and fragrant bamboo rice.