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The Underwater Hole Scenic Area is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, including caves, waterfalls, and clear turquoise pools. Visitors can hike around the area, explore the cave systems, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Photography and swimming in designated areas are also popular activities.
The Underwater Hole Scenic Area is located in northeastern Pan'an County, Zhejiang Province, on Chengxi, a tributary of Jiaxi River. It is part of the Jiaxi Scenic Area in the Central Zhejiang Grand Canyon. Its landscape is dominated by seven cascades and one waterfall, creating a unique spectacle of mountains and rivers, canyons, waterfalls, caves, springs, and flowers.
The scenic area boasts East China's tallest sightseeing elevator, built into the cliff face, reaching the same height as the mountain. It descends vertically, reaching a height of over 160 meters, roughly the height of a 50-story building. It takes just two minutes to reach the clifftop from the valley floor. With towering mountains above and flowing water below, the scenic beauty is unobstructed.
The landscape of Shuixia Kong is quite unique. Since 2009, it has attracted many film crews such as "The Female General of Tang Dynasty Fan Lihua", "The Stubborn and Pretty Imperial Physician" and "My Fair Princess" to come here for filming.
Spring and summer are the best seasons to visit the Underwater Hole Scenic Area. The temperature is just right for sightseeing.
The main attractions in the scenic area include the underwater Kongqixie Waterfall, the scenic sightseeing elevator, the Chengxi Ancient Road, the Tiangou Watching the Moon, the Guanyin Rock, the Husband and Wife Rock, the Wushi Ancient Street, and the Shouxing Rock.
Recommended play time: half a day
60 yuan/person
7:00-17:00
The Underwater Hole Scenic Area is a natural wonder located in Zhejiang, China. It is renowned for its unique karst landscape, including limestone caves and crystal-clear water. The area is a popular destination for nature lovers and those interested in exploring China's geological formations.
The Underwater Hole Scenic Area is located in Jinhua, Zhejiang province. The most convenient way to get there is by taxi or private car from Jinhua city center. Public transportation options are limited, so hiring a taxi or using a ride-hailing service is recommended.
The scenic area is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the natural surroundings are at their most beautiful. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for avoiding crowds.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥60 per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance to the scenic area. There is no online ticketing system commonly used, so purchasing tickets in person is required.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for individual visits. Tickets can be bought on the day of the visit at the entrance without any issue.
To fully explore the Underwater Hole Scenic Area, you should allocate around 2-3 hours. If you wish to hike extensively or swim in the natural pools, you may need an additional 1-2 hours.
Must-see highlights include the limestone caves, the underwater pools, and the surrounding lush forest. The waterfalls and clear, vibrant blue water are also not to be missed, providing great photo opportunities.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. For non-Mandarin speakers, it is recommended to bring a translator app or hire a local guide who can speak basic English for more information about the geological features of the area.
The best photography spots include the cave entrances, the waterfalls, and the areas around the crystal-clear pools. The forest and surrounding karst hills also provide stunning views, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
A recommended route would be to start with a walk around the pools and waterfalls. After that, explore the cave system and take a short hike to the viewpoints for panoramic views of the area. End your visit by relaxing near the water or enjoying the forested paths.
Night visits or light shows are not typically available at the Underwater Hole Scenic Area. It is best visited during daylight hours to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
The scenic area can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, it's best to visit on weekdays, especially in the morning hours before noon.
There are basic facilities available, including toilets, rest areas, and small shops that sell snacks and souvenirs. However, food options inside the scenic area may be limited, so it's a good idea to bring your own water and snacks.
The area may pose challenges for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain, steep paths, and cave exploration. However, children can enjoy walking around the main areas, especially near the pools and waterfalls.
Cash is commonly accepted at the entrance and in small shops within the scenic area. Mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash just in case.
There are small local eateries around the entrance to the scenic area, offering basic Chinese food. For more variety, you can head to Jinhua city, where there are plenty of restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian options are available in local eateries, but vegan and halal options might be limited. Jinhua city has more variety for special dietary needs.
There are a few guesthouses and small hotels near the Underwater Hole Scenic Area. For more luxurious options, staying in Jinhua city is recommended, where you'll find a range of accommodations from budget to high-end.
Nearby attractions include the Jinhua Southern Song Imperial Kiln Museum, which offers insights into traditional Chinese ceramics, and the famous Wuzhou Ancient Village. These can be easily combined for a day trip.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance selling traditional Chinese handicrafts, local teas, and snacks. Typical souvenirs include handcrafted pottery, silk products, and local herbal teas.
The best way to continue your trip is by taxi or ride-hailing services like Didi. For longer trips, Jinhua’s railway station offers excellent connections to other cities in Zhejiang and beyond.
