The Danshan Chishui Scenic Area (丹山赤水风景区), covering an area of 6.05 square kilometers, is known for its canyon landscapes, Taoist culture, and the quaint charm of ancient mountain villages in eastern Zhejiang Province. Its distinctive features include steep cliffs, peculiar rocks, ancient bridges, flowing streams, and cascading waterfalls, with Taoists venerating it as the Ninth Heaven.
The name “Danshan Chishui” dates back to the year 1116, when Emperor Huizong of the Song Dynasty inscribed the characters “Danshan Chishui Dongtian” (Danshan Chishui Heavenly Cave, 丹山赤水洞天) to honor a Taoist temple dedicated to Liu Gang, a deity. Since then, the name has been passed down. Many Taoist relics still exist in the mountains, such as the Siming Taoist Temple, the Sayaotai Altar, the Juxian Pavilion, the Tianji Terrace, the Laojun Stone, and the Dandong Cave, all of which are renowned scenic spots.
Upon entering the village, visitors are greeted by a grove of ancient trees, some reportedly over a hundred years old, especially enchanting when laden with ripe persimmons in autumn. Most families in the village grow persimmons, and many are surnamed Shen, descendants of Shen Kuo. Other noteworthy sites include the Shen Clan Ancestral Hall to the east, the ancient well along the old well road, and the Dream Creek Pavilion and Yubei Pavilion near the north. Walking through the narrow alleys, one may encounter locals chatting leisurely along the roadside, providing a serene atmosphere. The entire village consists of houses built of stone, a refreshing change from the typical Hui-style architecture and ancient towns of Jiangnan.
Visitors can partake in various activities such as taking a cable car to overlook the mist rising in the valley, experiencing the picturesque scenery akin to poetry and painting. They can also paddle a boat or ride a bicycle around the lake, enjoying the tranquility and leisurely pace. Alternatively, thrill-seekers can try the zipline for a burst of speed and excitement, or simply take a stroll through the bamboo grove, reveling in the fresh air and serene surroundings.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 – 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | 80 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 17.00 (1st April – 30th November) 8.30 – 16.30 (1st December – 31st March) |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0574-87786171 |
Location and Transportation
The Danshan Chishui Scenic Area is located in Shilin Village, Dalan Town, Yuyao City, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China, approximately 45 kilometers away from the downtown area of Yuyao. To reach the scenic area, visitors can take bus route 629 from Yuyao Dalan Station to the Danshan Scenic Area Station.
