Yin and Yang Waterfalls in Lushui City, Nujiang
Overview
The Yin and Yang Waterfalls (阴阳山瀑布) are located in Lushui City (泸水县) of Nujiang (怒江) Prefecture, approximately 24 kilometers from Liuku (六库). These spectacular waterfalls are situated within the Gaoligong Mountain Natural Reserve (高黎贡山自然保护区) and consist of two distinct waterfalls. The Yin Mountain Waterfall (阴山瀑布) is shaded from sunlight year-round, cascading endlessly from a high peak with a drop of over 180 meters.
Key Features
- Height: 255 meters
- Width: 5 meters
- Nickname: “Eternal Lovers” (千古情侣)
The Yang Mountain Waterfall (阳山瀑布) boasts a height of 255 meters and a width of 5 meters. Water flows powerfully from the waterfall’s summit, plunging down with a thunderous roar that echoes in the valley, audible from miles away. The two waterfalls are less than 200 meters apart, merging into a single stream that flows into the Nu River (怒江), hence earning the title of “Eternal Lovers.”
The cliffs beneath the Yin and Yang Waterfalls feature steep peaks surrounded by lush, primeval forests, where ancient trees tower above. Especially stunning are the brown-backed cuckoos (棕背杜鹃) covered in snow, which take on various shapes during the blooming season, making the mountains appear like a giant flower basket. Regardless of the season, the waterfall’s water remains crystal clear.
Sanhe Village (三河村)
Sanhe Village (三河村) is located within the territory of Lushui City (泸水县) in the Lu Zhang Town (鲁掌镇) area, nestled in the valley of the eastern slopes of Gaoligong Mountain (高黎贡山). The village derives its name from the confluence of three rivers: the Ancient Charcoal River (古炭河), Dripping River (滴水河), and Wanzhuan River (湾转河), which traverse the village.
The Yin and Yang Waterfalls are located in the Dripping River (滴水河) group of Sanhe Village (三河村), where two waterfalls flow down from the southern and northern sides of the mountain, respectively. These waterfalls are named after their respective mountains, Yin Mountain (阴山) and Yang Mountain (阳山).
Waterfalls Details
The Yin Waterfall (阴瀑) plunges from an elevation of 2305 meters, cascading in three levels with the widest section measuring about 10 meters and a drop of 255 meters.
The Yang Waterfall (阳瀑) is also about 10 meters wide, with a drop exceeding 180 meters. It is fully exposed to sunlight, with a substantial water flow. The water rushes out from a hollow, gliding a short distance before suddenly dropping down, akin to a warrior charging into battle after singing a triumphant song.
Both waterfalls are less than 200 meters apart, plummeting side by side into the valley, creating a stunning display as the waters converge and flow into the Dripping River (滴水河). From a distance, the Yin and Yang Waterfalls resemble a pair of lovers suspended between the mountains, entwined in an eternal embrace, earning the moniker “Eternal Couple Falls” (万年情侣瀑).
Since the implementation of river management policies along the Nu River (怒江), the ecological systems of rivers and lakes in the area have been effectively restored, enhancing water conservation functions and ecosystem stability.
Travel Tips
- Safety Advice: Plan ahead by preparing necessary gear, clothing, food, and emergency supplies. Communicate your travel plans, including routes and destinations, to family members. Carry communication devices with sufficient battery life. Pack efficiently to maintain physical stamina.
- Weather Advice: The visibility of the waterfalls depends on precipitation levels, so it is advisable to check weather conditions beforehand. Visiting after rainfall can provide the best viewing experience.
How to Get There
To reach the Yin and Yang Waterfalls, you can take a bus or drive from Liuku (六库) to Lushui City (泸水县). From Lushui, head to Lu Zhang Town (鲁掌镇) and follow signs to Sanhe Village (三河村). The waterfalls are a short hike from the village.
Attractions and Names List
- Yin and Yang Waterfalls (阴阳山瀑布)
- Lushui City (泸水县)
- Nujiang Prefecture (怒江)
- Gaoligong Mountain Natural Reserve (高黎贡山自然保护区)
- Dripping River (滴水河)
- Sanhe Village (三河村)
- Ancient Charcoal River (古炭河)
- Wanzhuan River (湾转河)
- Yin (阴)
- Yang (阳)
