Emerald Valley (Huangshan)

Emerald Valley (Cuiyu Gu, also called Jade Valley) lies at the southern foot of the Yellow Mountains, a lush gorge of crystal pools and waterfalls carved over millennia by the Jade River. More than a hundred pools — said to glow jade, sapphire and emerald in the sunlight — are strung along the stream beneath bamboo and broadleaf forest. The valley earned international fame as a filming location for Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, and is a refreshing, easy half-day contrast to the steep climbs of Huangshan above.

What to see

A well-made path follows the stream past the famous coloured pools — the Lovers' Pools give the valley its romantic nickname. Cross the swaying suspension bridge for the classic view down into the turquoise water, watch the cascades tumble over smooth boulders, and look for the deep, clear basins where the water really does shift colour with the light. The whole valley is shaded and cool, making it a fine choice on a hot day.

Opening hours & tickets

Emerald Valley is open daily; hours are roughly 8:00am–5:00pm (extended in summer, around 6:30am–6:30pm Apr–Oct). The entrance ticket is about ¥60. Plan for 3–4 hours to walk up and back at a relaxed pace.

Getting there

The valley is in the Yellow Mountain Scenic Area, near Tangkou town and the Huangshan south gate, about 45 minutes to an hour from Tunxi (Huangshan City). It pairs naturally with a Yellow Mountain trip — many visitors stop here on the way down from the peaks.

Best time to visit

Late spring through autumn, when the stream runs full and the pools are at their most colourful. After rain the waterfalls are at their best, though the rocks are slippery. Avoid mid-winter, when the water is low and cold. Weekday mornings are quietest.

Practical tips

Wear shoes with good grip — the streamside rocks and bridge can be wet. Bring water and swimwear is not permitted in the pools, but the cool air alone is a relief in summer. Combine Emerald Valley with the Yellow Mountains for a balanced day of high peaks and gentle water scenery.

A little history

Emerald Valley was barely known until the 1990s, when the success of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon — which filmed its famous treetop and pool scenes in this region — drew attention to the gorge's astonishing water. Geologists explain the colours simply: the Jade River has scoured the granite into deep, clean basins, and sunlight refracting through the mineral-rich, sediment-free water produces the shifting jade and turquoise tones. Locals had long called the largest basins the "Lovers' Pools," and the romance has become part of the valley's appeal, with couples coming to leave padlocks on the suspension bridge.

Combine your visit

Sitting right by the Yellow Mountain south gate at Tangkou, Emerald Valley is the ideal "wind-down" after a strenuous day or two on the peaks — gentle, shaded and downhill rather than up. Many visitors do Huangshan first and stop here on the way out, or use it as a relaxed morning before an afternoon train. It also combines with the nearby Jiulong (Nine Dragon) Waterfall and the hot springs at Tangkou. Wear good shoes, allow three to four hours, and bring a swimsuit only for the designated bathing spot if open; otherwise enjoy the pools from the path and bridges.

Good to know

The trail is mostly stone steps and railed paths and climbs gradually, so it suits most fitness levels, but it is not stroller- or wheelchair-friendly. There is a small shuttle from the gate to the trailhead in peak season. Bring insect repellent in summer, keep valuables dry near the water, and start before mid-morning to walk in cool shade ahead of the day-trip crowds.