Shangri-La, Yunnan Province

Baishuitai Scenic Area

白水台风景区Hiking & Outdoors · Photography · Nature

Baishuitai is one of the birthplaces of Naxi Dongba culture. From a distance, Baishuitai looks like a set of terraced fields, but in the sunlight, it sparkles like shimmering water.…

Baishuitai Scenic Area, Shangri-La

Key facts

Admission
¥45
Opening hours
Open all day
Time needed
2–3 hours
Getting there
Buses to Baishuitai (Sanba Township) depart from Shangri-La Bus Station, with a fare of ¥40. You can also charter a car for about ¥400 round trip.
Guidebook rating
4 / 5

From China Self Guided Travel 2025, page 260. Open in Google Maps

About Baishuitai Scenic Area

Baishuitai is one of the birthplaces of Naxi Dongba culture. From a distance, Baishuitai looks like a set of terraced fields, but in the sunlight, it sparkles like shimmering water. It is known as the "Immortal's Abandoned Fields." It is the largest spring terrace in China. This fairytale-like place is not to be missed on any trip to Shangri-La.

Tips from the guidebook

  • 1. No need to rent a horse: After getting off the bus, locals will offer to rent you horses, but walking will give you much more enjoyment.
  • 2. Travel notice: Summer brings heavy rain, poor road conditions, and a risk of mudslides and falling rocks, so visiting at this time is not recommended. The road to Baishuitai has many winding S-shaped bends, which can cause motion sickness, so be sure to bring motion sickness medication.

Frequently asked questions

How much does Baishuitai Scenic Area cost?

Admission to Baishuitai Scenic Area is ¥45, as listed in the 2025 guidebook. Prices can change; check the official channel before you go.

What are the opening hours of Baishuitai Scenic Area?

Baishuitai Scenic Area is open Open all day.

How do I get to Baishuitai Scenic Area?

Buses to Baishuitai (Sanba Township) depart from Shangri-La Bus Station, with a fare of ¥40. You can also charter a car for about ¥400 round trip.

How long should I spend at Baishuitai Scenic Area?

Plan on 2–3 hours for Baishuitai Scenic Area.

Where is Baishuitai Scenic Area?

Baishuitai Scenic Area is in Shangri-La, Yunnan Province, in the Southwest of China. Baidi Village, Sanba Naxi Ethnic Township, Shangri-La City, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province

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