Jinzhu Waterfall Scenic Area

Jinzhu Waterfall Scenic Area

The Jinzhu Waterfall Scenic Area is a national AAAA-level tourist attraction.

The Jinzhu Waterfall Cluster is located in Xiatong Village, a She ethnic minority settlement in Jinzhu Township, Le’an County, approximately 72 kilometers from the county seat. The mountain boasts steep terrain, ancient towering trees, crystal-clear springs, and lush greenery. Naturally formed waterfalls of varying sizes create a spectacular cumulative drop of over 400 meters. The abundance of waterfalls and the sheer scale of the total drop are rare even on a national scale. Among them, the most impressive include Gounao Waterfall, Dianguang Pool, and Shuanglong Pool, all known for their majestic presence, sparkling splashes, unique shapes, and distinctive features. The scenic area spans a total of 67 square kilometers and includes three main zones: the Tiger Roar Waterfall, Thunder Struck Rock, and Valley Flying Cascade, consisting of 13 individual attractions, plus an independent site—the Tomb of Minister Dong—located outside the main zones.

1. Tiger Roar Waterfall Cluster. This is the representative attraction of the Jinzhu area, located in Xiatong Village under the Liushe Village Committee of Jinzhu She Ethnic Township. With a total drop of 96 meters, it is divided into three tiers. The base forms a deep pool, and during the rainy season, the waterfall can span over 15 meters in width, presenting a stunning and majestic sight. Even more remarkable are the potholes (flared plunge pools) carved into the granite by the swirling currents—three such potholes are visible beneath the falls. These holes are small at the mouth but widen toward the bottom, with diameters of about 2–3 meters and estimated depths of around 2 meters. The rims appear as if circled by hand. The cluster features a total of 26 waterfalls spread across a 400-meter drop and 10-square-kilometer area. Nearby Qianqian Mountain is home to additional attractions such as Ox Nose Cave, Immortal Cave, and Chessboard Rock. The area is densely forested with vines, tall trees, and bamboo groves, hosting a rich diversity of wildlife. With a forest coverage rate of 90%, the ecological environment here is exceptional. The local population is small and exclusively She ethnic minority, known for their simplicity and warm hospitality.

2. Thunder Struck Rock Scenic Area. Adjacent to the southwest of the Tiger Roar Waterfall Cluster, this area covers approximately 10 square kilometers within the territory of Shenqiu Village Committee. It consists of four attractions: Bridge Under Thunder, Thunder Struck Rock, Fairy Scattering Flowers, and Turtle Probing Water. The zone features a rich array of rock formations, water features, and natural landscapes, with Thunder Struck Rock being a particularly concentrated showcase of both stone and living scenery.

3. Valley Flying Cascade Scenic Area. This zone comprises five attractions: Valley Flying Cascade, Maiden’s Longing, Longdu Mouth, Ancient Trees Greeting Guests, and Monkey Gazing at the Moon. Spread across approximately 20 square kilometers surrounding Zhongcun, the seat of Liancun Village Committee, it forms a quieter and more secluded waterfall, pool, and rock formation ensemble than the Tiger Roar Waterfall Cluster, though on a slightly smaller scale.

4. Independent Attraction: Tomb of Minister Dong. Located in Luyuan Village, Zhaoxian Town to the north of the scenic area, this site is compact in size but surrounded by serene surroundings. Minister Dong refers to Dong Yu, who served as Minister of Justice during the Ming Dynasty. The tomb was constructed by the Ministry of Works. Its construction and preservation reflect ancient people’s reverence and remembrance for upright officials who benefited the public.

The Jinzhu Waterfall Scenic Area offers cool and pleasant summers, earning it the nickname “Little Lushan Mountain” for summer retreats. In winter, heavy snow lingers for long periods, making it an ideal spot for enjoying snow in southern China. The area is rich in She ethnic customs and preserves well-maintained revolutionary sites, including former residences of leaders such as Mao Zedong and Zhu De.