Hukou Waterfall (Shanxi side)

Hukou Waterfall is the second-largest waterfall in China and the world's largest yellow waterfall, where the Yellow River squeezes from a width of about 250 metres into a gorge only 30 to 50 metres wide and plunges about 15 metres. The Shanxi side lies within the Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area at Hukou Town, Ji County, Linfen, Shanxi, China, facing the Shaanxi bank across the river. Visitors walk down to viewing platforms close to the edge, where the roar and spray are intense and rainbows appear in sunny conditions. The surrounding area includes a stone-lined riverbed with potholes, a hanging bridge and a sightseeing bus connecting the entrance with viewpoints. The best time for volume is September and October, when the river is highest, while winter brings dramatic ice formations and fewer visitors. A typical visit takes two to three hours, including the walk down, photography and a stroll along the rocky riverbed. Photo angles include the upstream platform for the sweep of water and the lower viewpoints for spray and rainbows. Crowds are largest during summer holidays and national holidays, and early morning is calmer. The area can be reached by direct bus from Linfen in about 2.5 hours, or by chartered car, which is faster. Visitors should dress for wet and windy conditions near the cascade, wear shoes with good grip, and allow extra time for travel because the site is remote.