Changbai Waterfall

长白瀑布

A 68-metre waterfall where Heaven Lake’s water spills over the northern gap. It is the true source of the Songhua River and, together with the hot spring pools beside it, makes up the north slope’s most spectacular scene.

Changbai Waterfall lies on the north side of Heaven Lake. Water spills out through the “Tamen” gap and flows along the roughly 1,250-metre Chengcha River before plunging 68 metres over a cliff. It is the largest waterfall on Changbai Mountain and the true source of the Songhua River. The roar can be heard hundreds of metres away, and sunlight often creates rainbows in the spray. In winter, parts of it freeze into huge ice cascades. The viewing route starts at the eco-bus stop and follows a boardwalk of about 1 km to the waterfall viewpoint. Along the way you pass the Juglong Hot Spring Group, where you can see springs bubbling and colourful sulphur deposits on the ground. Vendors sell hot-spring boiled eggs and corn. The waterfall viewpoint sits at the bottom of the valley, about 200 metres from the falls, and is the best spot for photos. A hiking path once ran up beside the falls to Heaven Lake, known as the “Waterfall Line,” but it has been closed permanently because of falling rocks, and crossing it is forbidden. Entry is included in the north slope scenic area ticket, and a round trip takes about 1 hour. Tips: after visiting Heaven Lake and coming back down, get off at the waterfall stop. See the hot spring groups and eat hot-spring eggs, then walk to the viewpoint and return along the same path. Hot spring bathhouses near the falls, such as Lanjing Hot Spring, let you soak. Getting there: north-side eco-buses stop at the waterfall station. Notes: the boardwalk is somewhat steep and icy in winter, so wear non-slip shoes. Mist is heavy, so protect your camera from water. It is colder near the falls than at the entrance, so bring an extra layer.

Changbai Waterfall

Opening hours

Nearby sights

Places to eat nearby