1 Day Private Tour to Hukou Waterfall from Xi’an

In the morning, your private guide and driver will be at your own booked hotel in downtown Xi’an at the appointed time, and then escort you outside the city to unlock a less-advertised gem in Yan’an, the Hukou Waterfalls, on a comfortable private car ride for around 3 to 4 hours. Along the way, the guide will give you brief background information about the natural wonder.

Upon arrival, take a short shuttle bus trip from the entrance to the waterfalls to officially start your exciting exploration. Hukou Waterfalls, the largest yellow waterfall in the world, will take your breath away with its dramatic force and thundering roars. Watch the majestic falls plunging down the steep cliff more than 20 meters (65.5 feet) high and the Yellow River surging forward, with a vast spray of water mist filling the air to wet you and make rainbows. It is also interesting to know that Hukou, meaning “kettle spout” in Chinese, refers to the narrowing estuary, into which the turbulent Yellow River rushes and causes the waterfall to “pour”. Whenever you come, you’ll be pleased by the distinct scenery here. In spring, witness the surrounding peach trees blossom, complementing the spectacular view of the waterfalls. In summer, marvel at the powerful abundant flow that makes it like countless galloping horses striking the ground. In autumn, take in a picturesque landscape formed by the yellow waterfalls and red foliage on the hills along the banks. While in winter, you’ll see it loses its fury and chaos, and its surroundings become an icy crystal palace, with ice hangings like icicles and ice cascades covering the cliffs.

► Friendly Tips:
1. Due to the strong wind and heavy mist around the waterfalls, it is suggested you dress yourself in a windproof and waterproof coat. Also remember to wear a pair of sunglasses and a mask to protect against the sandy and muddy spray.
2. Although the river bank of the waterfall are almost flat rock, it is covered with a layer of wet loess which makes it slippery, so you are supposed to pay more attention to safety.► Lunch Break: Get a Taste of Yan’an Specialty Food (at your own expense)
Lunch today is on your own. You can either eat what you have prepared in advance or dine in a restaurant near the scenic spot. Yan’an, located in northern Shaanxi Province boasting unique-flavored snacks at low prices, is a paradise for foodies. You should not miss its Stir-Fried Potato Slice, a local staple dish, and Fried Yellow Rice Pie with crispy skin and sugar syrup inside. If you come in summer, try the cold dish Bean Jelly, with an appetizing sour and spicy taste. If you are interested, ask your guide to recommend some eateries to give them a try!

In the afternoon, we’ll drive back to Xi’an. Along the way, stop to visit the Huangdi Mausoleum. Huangdi, also known as Yellow Emperor, was considered to have lived 5,000 years ago. Unifying all the tribes in the Yellow River basin through a series of battles and establishing China’s first tribal alliance, he was the initiator of Chinese civilization. Upon entering, the first thing that catches your eyes will be a dense forest of evergreen cypresses on the hills, with 80,000 trees in total, among which the most famous one is said to be planted by Huangdi himself. Then move to the Xuanyuan Temple, where you can imagine how the ancient Chinese emperors practiced rituals to worship their ancestor - a tradition still living except the worshippers have changed to common people, with your guide’s vivid narration on those monuments and altars. Finally, up the steps of the Spiritual Way, we’ll get to Huangdi’s tomb area. Here, stand before the iconic Longyu Pavilion and marvel at the lush woods and clear waters around.

After that, continue to transfer for around 2.5 hours to your hotel in downtown Xi’an. Your one day Hukou Waterfall tour from Xi’an has reached its end now. Thank you for traveling with us! Want to check out other Xi’an highlights like the world-famous Terracotta Army Museum, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, City Wall, and Mt. Huashan? Then don’t hesitate to contact us for a customized tour to your liking.