Live Your Best Lives
The Luya Waterfall Scenic Area is located at the foot of Xuanlian Peak of Taishi Mountain in Songshan, 6 kilometers northeast of Dengfeng City. There is a tall stone cliff there. During the reign of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang Dynasty, there was a man named Lu Hongyi who was appointed as the Imperial Counselor. He did not want to be an official, so he lived in seclusion here and recruited talented people from all over the world to give lectures here. Therefore, this cliff is called "Luya" and the place where Lu Hongyi lived in seclusion is called "Caotang".
After Lu Hongyi's death, Emperor Xuanzong of Tang changed the name of the "Caotang" to "Luya Temple". In the Luya North Canyon, there is a spring that flows all year round. Normally, the spring water cascades down the cliff, like a thousand water curtains hanging in the sky, and the sound of the spring is like the roar of tigers and leopards, and the roar of thunder.
When the sun shines directly on it, the light is dazzling and ever-changing, creating a myriad of phenomena. Water droplets accumulate, forming a pool, above which stands a dark blue round stone. Yuan Hongdao of the Ming Dynasty inscribed the characters "Molang Stone" on it. The water flowing over it resembles ink waves, earning this scene the nickname "Luya Waterfall Molang Flow" or "Pearl Curtain Rolling Upwards."
The temperate monsoon climate is characterized by heavy rains in summer and autumn, flash floods, and rapids rushing down with roaring sounds like tigers and leopards, and thunderous roars. The scene is very shocking. Summer and autumn are the best seasons for travel.
The Luya Waterfall Scenic Area boasts steep cliffs, numerous unusual rocks, and lush flowers and plants. Spring water cascades down the cliffs, gathering into pools of shimmering water and various shapes, resembling a fairyland on earth. Key attractions include Luya Temple, the Ten Pools and Nine Valleys, Luya Waterfall, and the "One Line Sky." Behind the temple, a spring flows year-round between Xuanlian Peak and Jiming Peak, cascading down from the cliffs like clouds and mist, creating a truly spectacular sight.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
50 yuan/person
08:30-18:00
Luya Waterfall is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular site for nature lovers and photographers. It is part of the region's efforts to preserve its natural resources and promote eco-tourism.
Located in the outskirts of Zhengzhou, Henan. Accessible by taxi or local buses. A short walk is required from the parking area to the waterfall.
Open year-round, typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Early mornings and weekdays offer the least crowding.
The entrance fee is around ¥50–¥80. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online via local tourism platforms.
Advance booking is not necessary, but recommended during peak seasons (holidays or weekends).
1–2 hours to enjoy the waterfall and surrounding trails.
Guided tours are available, mostly in Chinese; audio guides may be available in English at certain times.
The best views of the waterfall are from the viewing platforms along the trails.
Start at the entrance, follow the main trail to the waterfall, and take a loop around the area for different perspectives.
No night visits or light shows are available. Special tours are limited to daytime visits.
Weekdays and mornings are less crowded; weekends and public holidays can be busier.
Yes, there are paved paths for easier access, though some areas may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Mobile payments and cards are accepted, but cash is also commonly used, especially for small vendors.
There are a few small local cafes and restaurants near the waterfall, serving basic meals and snacks.
Vegetarian options are available, but halal options may be limited.
Nearby hotels range from budget accommodations to more upscale options in Zhengzhou.
Souvenir shops sell local handicrafts, traditional Chinese items, and snacks.
Taxi or local buses are convenient for continuing your trip; the Zhengzhou metro system also offers easy access to other areas.
