Sandiequan Waterfall

The Sandiequan (三叠泉, Three-Step Waterfall) is the centerpiece of Lushan's hiking network and the most spectacular single sight on the mountain. The falls drop in three distinct steps from a total height of 155 metres into a deep green gorge, with each step landing in a pool before cascading to the next level. The volume varies considerably by season — after summer rains the falls are at their most impressive; in dry winters they narrow but remain beautiful.

The walk from the nearest bus stop takes about 90 minutes each way on steep stone steps, descending into and then back out of the gorge. The descent is straightforward; the climb back up is genuinely demanding. Porters operate a sedan chair service for those who prefer not to walk back. The lighting in the gorge is best in the morning before noon. Allow four to five hours for the round trip.

things to do sight
A story
The poet Li Bai visited Lushan and wrote several celebrated poems about the Sandiequan waterfall in the Tang dynasty. His line "Flying waters descend three thousand feet — I wonder if the Milky Way has fallen from the ninth heaven" became one of the most famous hyperboles in classical Chinese poetry, and the waterfall has been associated with his name ever since. The poem is carved on a stone tablet near the viewing platform at the base of the falls.