Mohan Waterfalls in Yongshan County, Zhaotong
Chinese Name: 永善县墨翰乡瀑布群
English Name: Mohan Waterfalls in Yongshan County, Zhaotong
Overview
Mohan Waterfalls are located in Jingping Village, within Mohan Township, Yongshan County, Zhaotong, Yunnan Province. The village is situated 6 kilometers from the Mohan Township government seat, accessible via a 2-kilometer stretch of rural road and a 4-kilometer village path. The area is fully equipped with water and electricity infrastructure.
Scenic Beauty
Jingping Village is characterized by rolling mountains, overlapping peaks, and lush forests. The green waters of the rivers flow joyfully through the mountains, creating picturesque landscapes where mountains embrace the rivers, and waters reflect the verdant hills. The harmonious sounds of birds chirping echo through the valleys. Visitors stepping into this idyllic setting are met with a sense of peace and tranquility, appreciating the vibrant natural scenery that has given rise to the diverse and unique waterfalls of Mohan Township.
The waterfalls are spread over an area of approximately 5 square kilometers, with more than a dozen waterfalls of varying sizes. The most notable and spectacular waterfalls include the Rainbow Waterfall, Bailin Waterfall, and Heiyan Waterfall:
- Rainbow Waterfall: This natural wonder is renowned for its impressive height and the breathtaking rainbows it creates. The waterfall cascades from a cliff over 100 meters high and 5 to 6 meters wide, plunging down a sheer drop, resembling shattered jade. The sight is grand and awe-inspiring. A poetic description captures its essence: “A thousand feet of waves shatter like jade, a pool roars with the sound of the wind, the green mountains and waters are adorned with flowers, and the liquid jade pours over rocks of iron.” On sunny days, the waterfall’s mist creates multiple rainbows, crafting a magical, dreamlike world.
- Bailin Waterfall and Heiyan Waterfall: Located about 1 kilometer from the Rainbow Waterfall, these waterfalls are equally captivating. From a distance, they appear like white silk ribbons hanging down the mountainside, enhancing the scenic allure of the area.
Hydroelectric Development
Mohan Township is rich in hydropower resources, with three main rivers—Sanyu River, Upper Xiaoriver, and Lower Xiaoriver—and numerous tributaries. There are over 30 waterfalls within the township, and 12 small to medium-sized hydropower stations have been established. These stations generate more than 1 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually and provide over 70 employment opportunities for local residents, earning the township the nickname “Pearl of Hydropower.”
Conclusion
Mohan Waterfalls, with their natural beauty, lush green surroundings, and impressive hydroelectric development, offer a unique combination of natural splendor and modern utility. The area’s development into a tourist attraction highlights its potential to draw visitors and enhance local economic growth while preserving the natural environment.
Location: Jingping Village, Mohan Township, Yongshan County, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province, China
