Located at the border of Ji County in Shanxi Province and Yichuan County in Shaanxi Province, Hukou Waterfall is the only yellow waterfall on the Yellow River and China's second largest waterfall. As a national 5A-level tourist attraction, it is hailed as "The Heart of the Yellow River, The Soul of the Nation".
Overview
Basic Information
- Scale: Main waterfall 40m wide with 30m drop, maximum surface area reaches 30,000 sqm during flood season.
- Geological Feature: World's largest yellow waterfall where the Yellow River suddenly narrows, resembling water pouring from a teapot.
Honors
- Rating: National 5A-level tourist attraction
- Heritage Status: National Scenic Area, National Geopark
- International Recognition: Listed among "China's Six Most Beautiful Waterfalls" by Chinese National Geography
Scenic Features
Seasonal Views
- Spring: Ice run period with falling ice chunks creating spectacular scenes
- Summer: Abundant water flow, waterfall can extend 1km wide with thunderous roar
- Autumn: Frequent rainbows and "smoke from water bottom" phenomenon
- Winter: Frozen waterfall forms rare "ice bridge" landscape
Eight Wonders
- Smoke from Water Bottom: Mist rising from waterfall impact like smoke
- Boats on Dry Land: Ancient practice of unloading ships upstream and transporting goods by land around waterfall
- Rainbow Playing with Water: Sunlight refraction creating rainbows on waterfall
- Rain from Clear Sky: Water droplets sprinkling down like rain
Visitor Experience
Viewing Options
- Shanxi Side: Close-up view to feel waterfall's mighty power
- Shaanxi Side: Panoramic view ideal for photography
- Helicopter Tour: Aerial view of Yellow River Grand Canyon
Cultural Activities
- Yellow River Cantata Live Show: Recreating the scene where Xian Xinghai composed his masterpiece
- Ansai Waist Drum Performance: Experience traditional folk culture of northern Shaanxi
- Yellow River Rafting: Thrilling summer-only water activity
Practical Information
Opening Hours
- Peak Season (Apr 1-Oct 31): 06:30-19:30
- Off Season (Nov 1-Mar 31): 08:00-18:00
Ticket Information
- Full Ticket: 100 RMB/person (peak), 90 RMB/person (off)
- Concession Ticket: 50 RMB/person (students, seniors etc.)
- Sightseeing Bus: 20 RMB/person (round trip)
Transportation
- Public Transport: Take bus from Xi'an or Taiyuan to Ji/Yichuan County, then transfer to scenic area shuttle
- Self-drive: From Xi'an via Baomao Expressway to Qinglan Expressway; from Taiyuan via Jingkun Expressway to Qinglan Expressway
- Parking: Large parking lot available for 2,000 vehicles
Travel Tips
- Best Season: May to October for best views, July-August for maximum water volume
- Essentials: Bring raincoat and anti-slip shoes due to heavy spray
- Safety Notice: Do not cross safety railings and watch for slippery surfaces