Things to do in Xianju

No. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Zhejiang

Shenxianju

Shenxianju is nestled among the mountains of Xianju, Zhejiang, as a typical area of volcanic rhyolite landform. The rock masses left by ancient volcanic activity have been shaped by long-term weathering and erosion, forming clusters of peculiar peaks, deep valleys and cliffs, where every mountain, stream, rock and peak boasts its unique charm. Pan Lei, a scholar of the Hanlin Academy in the Qing dynasty, remarked after his visit, "Tiantai is serene and Yandang is precipitous, yet Xianju possesses both." This comment precisely captures the essence of this place, which combines the strengths of two renowned mountains. The signature photo spot in the attraction is Ruyi bridge—modeled after a traditional jade ruyi scepter, this two-tiered bridge with partial glass decking spans a deep gorge, creating a cloud-walking illusion on foggy days. Suspended bridges like Wolong bridge, Yuanmeng bridge, and Hongmeng bridge connect with viewing platforms along the way, forming a scenic loop between cliff walls. Nantian summit is a cantilevered glass platform overlooking mountain peaks; the lotus terrace near Foying Lianyun faces Guanyin peak, where rising mist makes visitors appear to stand amid clouds—a popular photography location. The Guanyin peak, resembling the Buddhist deity, serves as the attraction's icon, visible head-on when taking the cable car up from the south gate. Ancient tadpole-shaped inscriptions called "tadpole celestial script" on cliff walls remain undeciphered, adding mystery to the landscape. The attraction has two entrances and exits, south and north, connected by the Nantian and Beihai cableways respectively. An escalator named Nantian ladder is also built on the south gate side, allowing travelers to reach the ridge directly via cableway and escalator without climbing, and then take a gentle tour along the cliffside walkway. Many travelers choose to enter from the south gate and exit from the north gate, as the downhill route is more effortless. It takes about half a day to visit the main attractions. In early summer during the rainy season, the waterfalls are abundant and the mountain is cool. In winter when the temperature is low enough, the flying waterfall freezes into ice falls hanging in front of the cliff, each offering unique views. The outdoor sports area built along the cliff also features activities such as via ferrata climbing. Travelers who want to combine sightseeing and sports can give it a try.

Selected for Best Things to Do in Zhejiang

Ruyi Bridge

Ruyi Bridge is a bridge that combines modern design with natural landscape, located in Xianju National Park. The rigid and soft shape is integrated with the natural scenery of Shenxianju. Its shape is like a Ruyi hanging between two mountains, and it also looks like a fairy's shawl. The design of the bridge is inspired by the traditional Chinese Ruyi shape, which symbolizes auspiciousness and beauty. Its unique curved structure contrasts with the surrounding green mountains and waters, becoming a highlight of Xianju. Ruyi Bridge is not only a viewing point, but also an important channel connecting various scenic spots in the park. Visitors can stroll on the bridge and enjoy the natural scenery on both sides, especially in the early morning or evening, when the clouds and mist are lingering and the scenery is picturesque. The bridge deck is spacious and suitable for taking pictures, making it an ideal place for photography enthusiasts. Due to the high bridge deck and strong wind, it is recommended to bring a light jacket. Visiting Ruyi Bridge not only allows you to feel the beauty of modern architecture, but also experience the natural charm of Xianju. It is a destination worth visiting.

Nantian Ladder

Nantian Ladder is an outdoor escalator built along the steep mountainside within the Shenxianju scenic area, and it is an important facility for a "painless hiking" experience. The escalator is over 100 m long with a vertical rise of several dozen m; it is divided into two sections that extend upward along a crevice in the hillside, and the ride takes only a few minutes. As you ascend slowly, the steep cliffs, deep canyons, and rolling peaks in the distance unfold layer by layer on both sides. In foggy weather, clouds and mist rise from beneath your feet, making you feel as if you are traveling through the clouds while standing on the escalator. It is located on the uphill route on the South Gate side. Most visitors take the Nantian Cableway from the South Gate to the upper station before transferring to this escalator; upon exiting, you can enter the core mountaintop sightseeing area. For seniors, children, and visitors with limited mobility, this escalator reduces the physical exertion required to reach the top. It makes traveling with children or accompanying elders easier, allowing you to save your energy for the mountaintop scenery.

Xianrengu Rafting

Xianren Valley Rafting is located in Xianju Qiushan Township, where the immortals live. The Attraction is divided into adventure rafting in the upper reaches and passion rafting in the lower reaches. Passion rafting will open this year. Both are God's slides, and the thrills are not to be missed. Xianren Valley Passion Rafting has changed the traditional rafting mode of "a small bamboo raft in the middle of the river, and a majestic green mountain on both sides". It is characterized by a large drop, a large amount of water, a large scenery, a large excitement, and a large pattern.

Danzhu Leisure Valley

The Danzhu Leisure Valley, also known as the Danzhu virgin forest, is located in the Danzhu township in the southwest of Xianju County. It is one of the core scenic spots in the National Key Scenic Spot of Xianju. The subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forest in the scenic area is rich in flora and fauna and diverse biospheres. It is known as the rare green plant “green gene pool” and plant “museum” in the province.

Longtantou Village

Longtantou Village is located in Xianju County, Taizhou City, Zhejiang Province, China, and is a beautiful village that blends natural scenery with traditional culture. Nestled between mountains and water, the village offers a tranquil environment and pleasant scenery throughout the seasons, showcasing the typical charm of a Jiangnan water town. The village preserves a wealth of traditional architecture and cultural heritage, with ancient dwellings, ancestral halls, and stone bridges bearing witness to the village's historical changes. The handicrafts and folk activities passed down through generations by the villagers, such as traditional festivals and local operas, reflect its profound cultural heritage. In recent years, the village has actively promoted rural revitalization, focusing on ecological protection and cultural inheritance, attracting many tourists to experience rural life. Visitors can stroll along the bluestone paths, admire the ancient architecture, taste authentic farmhouse dishes, and feel the rich local atmosphere. With its unique natural scenery and rich cultural resources, it has become an ideal destination for leisure travel and learning about traditional culture. Whether you are a traveler seeking tranquility or a tourist interested in history and culture, you can find a sense of belonging here.

Xianju · Yalecheng · Happy World

Yongan River Drifting

Yongan River Drifting is located in Ximen Village, Bulu Township, Xianju County, Taizhou City. The bamboo rafts made by Xianju are used as rafting tools, and the bamboo rafts flow down smoothly, sometimes from time to time. Away from the bustling and hustle and bustle of the city, people feel the beauty of nature. There are snacks, teas, souvenirs and other items for sale in the area, where you can also experience the fun of flipping a farmhouse.

South Gate Nantian Cableway

South Gate Nantian Cableway is an exciting tourist facility in Xianju County, Zhejiang Province, offering visitors a great opportunity to overlook magnificent natural views. As one of the important transportation methods to enter theXianju Scenic Area, it connects the foot of the mountain to the summit, providing visitors with a convenient and unique perspective to explore this beautiful landscape. Visitors can enjoy the layered peaks and lush forest views of Xianju from the air. Especially on clear days, the view is expansive, with distant mountains and nearby scenery all in sight. The cable car cabins are designed to be safe and comfortable, with transparent windows that allow visitors to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty with a 360-degree view. It is not only a fast track to Xianju's natural wonders but also an unforgettable aerial journey. Whether it is the sea of flowers in spring, the greenery of summer, the colorful forests of fall, or the snowy scenery of winter, every season presents visitors with a different natural landscape.

Tianmu Mountain

Tianmu Mountain is an important part of Shenxianju. Tianmu Mountain's iconic landmark isTianmu Peak, where a unique rock rises from the peak, resembling the image of the "Tianmu" in Taoist sculptures and paintings—with long robes, wide sleeves, and a hood draped over the shoulders, its outline is clear. Under the evening glow, the outline traced by the setting sun appears even more vivid and elegant. This isTianmu Peak, one of the six wonders of Shenxianju. The area also preserves the "Tianshu Tadpole Script" cliff carvings, covered with strange patterns and symbols such as sun, moon, and insect motifs, said to have been carved by Yu the Great, attracting countless scholars and enthusiasts to explore its mysteries for centuries. The scenic area has a unique geological structure and is one of the world's largest clusters of volcanic rhyolite landforms, combining unique peaks, seas of clouds, and waterfalls. The Nantian Ding glass viewing platform next toTianmu Peakis an excellent spot to overlookTianmu Peakand the surrounding mountains. It "possesses both the seclusion of Tiantai and the magnificence of Yandang," making it a great place to experience the fusion of the Poet Immortal's dreamscape and natural wonders.