Noted for the Baishui Fairy Waterfall, the highest in China, Guangzhou Baishui Village (White Water Village) is situated in Paitan Town, Zengcheng District of Guangzhou, and 44 miles (70 kilometers) from the city center. The whole area is surrounded by the Southern Kun Mountain in the east and Conghua Hot Spring Town in the west. The village consists of several mountains, and the main peak is 2,700 feet (828 meters) high. Now it is a scenic area of provincial level which covers an area of about 66 square miles (170 square kilometers). Baishui Villages’ chief feature is its beautiful waterfall, and because the Tropic of Cancer goes through the scenic area, it is also famed as “a magnificent jade on the Tropic of Cancer”.
There is no doubt that Baishui Fairy Waterfall is the most famous site in the scenic area. Its fall reaches 1,400 feet (428.5 meters). The charm of the waterfall can be perceived from quite a distance. Tourist can catch sight of it on the way to Baishui Village, along the Zengpai Road (from Zengcheng to Paitan).
The pure white waterfall is divided into three sections with different shapes and features from the top to the bottom. The upper section looks like a dragon dancing in the air; the middle one is like a huge silk curtain hanging on the mountains; while the lowest one looks like thousands of white pearls scattered in the green woods. Though each of them has its own characteristics, together they form a spectacular waterfall. Just as Li Bai (a famous poet in Tang Dynasty (618-907)) wrote in his poem “Cataract on Mount Lu”, in which he says “The water runs down from three thousand feet high, just like the Milky Way dropping down the sky.”
From a nearer viewpoint, the waterfall looks like a beautiful fairy who stands gracefully, dancing gently in the wind. A legend goes that this graceful waterfall is the incarnation of the woman immortal, He Xiangu (a member of Eight Immortals in the Chinese traditional culture). According to the local people, He Xiangu’s home was located next to Paitan Town; and it was in this beautiful place that she became an immortal. Because of the legend, as well as the beautiful and elegant shape of the waterfall, it came to be known as Baishui Fairy Waterfall.
Tourists have two routes to choose from when they arrive at the foot of the hill. If one enjoys mountain climbing, he can choose the First Stair; if he wants to be close to the water he should choose the Plank Road.
The First Stair is build along the Baishui Fairy Waterfall from the bottom to the mountaintop. It is the longest mountain path in Guangdong Province, having altogether 9,999 stairs, with the total length of 4.1 miles (6.6 kilometers). The path stretches over three mountains and bonds two heaven lakes (lakes that located in the high mountain). It includes six parts, respectively named Xunxian (journey to fairyland), Yijing (pleasant mood in beautiful nature), Zhinan (realize the difficulty and still have tenacity), Lansheng (enjoy the beauty in the mountains), Yongshi (men of courage and ambition), and Dengfeng (stand on the mountaintop). Along the path, tourists have the chance to enjoy the green mountains and waters.
Close to the First Stair, there are several stages at different altitude for tourists to view the waterfall from different points of view. The first stage is on the 1,499th stair, Puming Stage, which means that one can hear the sound of the waterfall falling down. The second, Qinpu stage is on the 2,199th stair. On this stage, one will have the chance to touch the waterfall with his own hands. Besides, it is high enough to view the mountains in the distance. The third stage, Mupu Stage is on the 3,299th stair, where one can “take a shower” in the waterfall mist in zero distance. At that time, surrounded by the cold mist of the waterfall and breathing the fresh air, it’s really enjoyable experience.
Continuing the climb, going through the Immortal Gully, one will reach the headstream of the waterfall - Xiangu Heavenly Lake and another lake - Seven Fairies Lake. With a total volume of 41.5 million barrels (4.8 million cubic meters), they are like two green gems set in the mountains, clear and sparkling. The 9,999th stair is the zenith of the path. It is said that if lovers climb to the 9,999th together, their love would be forever.
Instead of the First Stair, one can choose the Plank Road. Every plank in the Plank Road is made of ship wood. It complies with the ups and downs of the mountains. On the Plank Road, tourists will have the chance to be close to the waterfall and streams, and see other beautiful scenery. There are Magical Water Valley, the Tree House and Huixian Bridge on this road. Also, along the Plank Road, one can go to the 1,499th stair, Puming Stage too. If following a path on the cliff, one can even reach to 2,199th stair, Qinpu Stage. What’s more, all years round there are different flowers blossoming in the mountains in a riot of colors.
Tips and cautions:
1. Pay attention to personal safety when you are close to the water and taking photos.
2. Be sure your energy and physical strength are sufficient if you want to climb to the mountaintop.
3. There are tourist buses in the village. It can take you from the foot of the mountain to the 899th stair for CNY 20 for single pass each person.
