Hi there, I’m Michael Zhang — a seasoned Chinese traveler who has explored five continents over the past two decades. From trekking the Inca Trail in Peru to hiking through Italy’s Dolomites and wandering the ancient villages of Huizhou, my journeys have always been about discovering places where nature, culture, and history blend seamlessly. This time, I’m taking you to one of China’s hidden gems — Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) in Shangrao, Jiangxi Province. It’s a destination that combines breathtaking landscapes, ancient Yao and Shun legends, and a touch of modern fantasy. For those who love cultural depth, immersive travel, and the charm of nature, this valley feels like stepping into a living fairy tale.

Summary

Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) Overview

Located northeast of Lingshan Mountain, about 50 km from downtown Shangrao, Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) is a scenic area inspired by the legendary Yao and Shun culture. The valley stretches along a five-kilometer-long natural stone gorge formed by the Taojin River. It is divided into five main areas — Jiuniu, Yanpu, Nanshan, Yuanshan Peak, and Fangcun — and has gained popularity as a fantasy-themed cultural village known for its blend of Gan-style folk charm and martial-immortal aesthetics.

With a forest coverage rate of 81%, the surrounding Wangxian Township is rich in biodiversity, home to rare plants such as yew, ginkgo, Buddhist pine, and ancient locust trees, as well as protected animals like the Chinese box turtle, pangolin, leopard, and civet.

  • Address: 636 County Road, Guangxin District, Shangrao (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Opening Hours: 09:30–23:00 (last entry at 21:00; if you stay overnight inside the valley, you can enjoy the after-dark views)
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 3–4 hours (a two-day trip with one overnight stay is highly recommended)
  • Best Seasons: All year round (avoid Mondays and Tuesdays when some performances are closed)
  • Ticket Price: 140 CNY
  • Ticket Purchase:Trip.com Discounts
Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) aerial view at sunset in Shangrao Jiangxi

Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) Map

Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) scenic map and guide in Shangrao Jiangxi

Why You Should Visit Vagoo (Wangxian Valley)

Nature and Cultural Landscape

Nestled within the Lingshan Mountain range, Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) offers a stunning combination of gorges, waterfalls, and cliffside guesthouses. Its famous Three-Tiered Waterfall plunges nearly 100 meters, and when mist rises, a rainbow arches across the cliffs — a phenomenon locals call “The River of Heaven.” Meanwhile, the Qingyun Walkway, suspended along the mountain slope, offers a surreal experience. Beneath you, clear streams flow; beyond, emerald peaks stretch endlessly. Walking here feels like drifting through a world of immortals, where every step connects you with both earth and sky.

Nighttime Magic

As darkness falls, ancient-style houses, pavilions, and hanging cliff lodges light up, creating a dreamlike atmosphere known as “A Thousand Lanterns in the Mountains.” The entire valley glows under colorful lights, accompanied by music and projection shows across the cliffs. Visitors can witness a “real-life fantasy realm,” blending natural wonder with human imagination — an experience that leaves a lasting impression on every traveler who ventures here.

Top Things to Do in Vagoo (Wangxian Valley)

Magnificent Canyon Views

The most breathtaking attraction in Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) is undoubtedly the canyon that winds gracefully along the Taojin River. Towering cliffs rise on both sides, blanketed with lush greenery and veiled in soft mist, creating a living Chinese landscape painting. During the evening blue hour, when lanterns light up across the valley, the reflections shimmer against the rock walls, turning the entire scene into a dreamlike fairyland. As you walk through the gorge, you’ll notice that every bridge and cliffside structure is designed with meticulous care — preserving the natural landscape while infusing it with ancient aesthetics. The result feels like stepping straight into a real-world fantasy realm.

  • Recommended Photo Spots:
    • Lanyue Bridge: Perfect for capturing night views and lantern-lit paths, especially during the blue hour.
    • Baige Bridge: Great for both daytime mountain scenes and nighttime lights.
    • Baihe Cliff: Ideal for upward shots of the hanging pavilions — the fantasy vibe is unbeatable.
    • Xianxia Pavilion: A 360° glass observation deck (reservation required) where the sea of clouds beneath your feet is absolutely stunning.
Night view of Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) canyon with lantern bridge

Old Street Food Experience

Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) is not only a visual delight but also a paradise for food lovers. The old street is lined with snack stalls and traditional Jiangxi-style restaurants, filling the air with the irresistible aroma of local delicacies. Inside the valley, eateries are plentiful and reasonably priced. Some must-try items include winter melon tea, clay pot soup, Yanshan rice noodles, Wangxian tofu, and Yang Mama’s fried rice cakes.

Keep in mind that Jiangxi cuisine is known for its heat — even dishes labeled “mildly spicy” can pack quite a punch for those not used to it!

Local street food in Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) Shangrao Jiangxi

Rafting Adventure

For thrill seekers, the Vagoo Extreme Rafting is an experience not to be missed. The course runs 2.8 km with a drop of 185 meters, passing through three bends, three pools, and three waterfalls. Along the river, countless boulders of various shapes rise and fall — some lying flat, some standing tall, others leaping through the rapids — creating a natural obstacle course.

Once you board the raft and start your descent, you’ll be met with twists, turns, splashes, and bursts of adrenaline that will make you scream with excitement.

  • Opens at 12:00 PM; last entry is before 5:00 PM. The rafting takes about 1.5 hours.
  • Combo ticket (entrance + rafting): 248 CNY/person if purchased a day in advance, or 280 CNY/person on the same day.
  • Safety Tips: Always wear your helmet properly. There are a couple of steep drops where the water hits rocks directly — it’s easy to bump your head if you’re not careful. Keep your hands inside the raft and hold the handles tightly during vertical descents to protect your elbows!
Rafting adventure in Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) Shangrao Jiangxi

Cultural Performances

From noon until night, visitors can enjoy a series of free performances throughout the valley — a real treat for culture enthusiasts. Highlights include traditional Han wedding ceremonies at the Hu Family Ancestral Hall, storytelling and drum performances at the Yanpu Stage, and poetry challenges at the Yang Mansion Arena. Each performance offers a glimpse into local folklore and artistry, immersing travelers in Jiangxi’s cultural soul.

Because the lineup changes monthly, you can check the updated performance schedule once inside the scenic area.

  • Note: Many performances are suspended on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.
Traditional fire dance performance in Vagoo (Wangxian Valley)

Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) Ticket Guide

Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) requires a ticket for entry. Guests staying at hotels or guesthouses inside the valley enjoy free admission, while those staying outside the scenic area may need to purchase tickets separately.

Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) Ticket Prices

  • Adults: 140 CNY
  • Children (ages 6–18): 70 CNY
  • Seniors (ages 65–70): 110 CNY
  • Free Admission: Children under 6 and seniors over 70
  • Important: Each ticket grants single entry only. If you leave the park, you’ll need to repurchase a ticket to re-enter. For travelers planning a two-day visit, staying inside the scenic area is highly recommended, as you’ll be exempt from buying another ticket.

Ticket Purchase Options

  • Online: Official WeChat account “望仙谷景区” or third-party booking platforms.
  • Offline: Tickets can be purchased at the Visitor Center, though buying on-site is not recommended due to limited daily capacity — if tickets sell out before you arrive, your trip could be wasted.

To fully experience Vagoo (Wangxian Valley), here’s a suggested walking route that covers all major attractions:

From the Visitor Center → Qingyun Bridge → Sankou Pot → Xile Bridge → Mijing Pass → Yanpu Square → Baiwei Street → Opera Square → Hundred Flowers Garden → Mingchan Alley → Yangu Street → Workshop Street → Ink Pond → Three Gods Temple → Yunji Square → Yangxian Village → Chaohe Tower → Cliff Walkway → Leimu Bridge → Sitong Bridge → exit the scenic area.

  • Tour groups usually begin entering the park around 3 PM, so arriving at 2 PM allows you to enjoy quieter views and take better photos. Crowds peak between 4–5 PM for entry and 7–8 PM for exit.
  • The paths are full of stairs and uneven stone pavements — wear comfortable flat shoes.
  • Lights turn on around 5–6 PM; the best moment to enjoy the view is right after the lanterns light up, before it gets completely dark.
  • If you plan to return to downtown Shangrao at night, buy your return bus ticket in advance. Taxis are scarce after dark, and roads can get heavily congested after 8 PM.

Inside Vagoo (Wangxian Valley), there are countless restaurants and snack stalls serving authentic Jiangxi cuisine — mainly rice noodles, stir-fried dishes, and local snacks. It’s perfect for eating while exploring. Here are a few must-try dishes:

  • Hengfeng Arrowroot Jelly: Freshly pressed arrowroot juice cooked with osmanthus syrup, delicate in texture and fragrance. Try the crispy arrowroot cakes — a great local gift. (Opposite Yang Family Restaurant on Ruogu Street)
  • Vagoo Silly Winter Melon: Sweet and refreshing winter melon tea, best served iced; don’t miss their crispy golden winter melon snacks. (At the end of Snack Street)
  • Cheese Pull Corn: A chewy and unique street snack located next to Vagoo Silly Winter Melon.
  • The Immortal Fruit: A local delicacy steamed from wild “five-eye fruit” grown deep in Jiangxi’s mountains. (Workshop Street, look for the “Bagua Furnace” sign)
  • Yanpu Homemade Yogurt: Thick, smooth, and fragrant — handmade daily.
  • Taro Dumplings: Soft, chewy, and savory; handmade and steamed fresh.
  • Shangrao Mountain Chicken Drumstick: Giant wild chicken drumsticks roasted with traditional methods — crispy, spicy, and flavorful.
Popular local dishes and drinks in Vagoo (Wangxian Valley)

There are three main guesthouses inside the valley, all located halfway up the mountain. Their biggest advantage is convenience, especially for families with kids or elderly travelers. If you plan to stay overnight, it’s strongly recommended to stay inside the scenic area. While accommodations outside are cheaper, they don’t offer the same unique atmosphere.

Xiansu

Xiansu
  • Location: Inside Vagoo (Wangxian Valley)
  • Price per night: From 879 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 8.9
  • Special Amenities: Includes two admission tickets to Vagoo, gym, outdoor pool, kids’ playground, family suites

Closer to the central street but involves many stairs, which can be inconvenient for carrying luggage — staff will help with delivery. Walking distance to Qingyun Walkway and Fairy Valley Waterfall.

Built using traditional local techniques with yellow clay and black tiles. Rooms are stylish, spotless, and cozy. High-quality bath products ensure a relaxing stay.

Yangxian Village

Yangxian Village
  • Location: Inside Vagoo (Wangxian Valley)
  • Price per night: From 1088 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 9.0
  • Special Amenities: Includes two admission tickets, gym, outdoor pool, kids’ playground, family rooms

Closest to the check-in center, easy for luggage transfer; staff assist with delivery. Keep in mind that after evening walks, you’ll need a 15-minute uphill hike back to your room.

Modern, clean, and fully equipped. Complimentary amenities — especially the handmade wooden combs — are a charming touch. Breakfast is diverse and delicious.

Wangxiangu Cliff Homestay

Wangxiangu Cliff Homestay
  • Location: Inside Vagoo (Wangxian Valley)
  • Price per night: From 2690 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 9.1
  • Special Amenities: Includes two admission tickets, gym, outdoor pool, kids’ playground, family rooms

The most luxurious stay in the valley, perched on Baihe Cliff at 110 meters high. With full glass walls, guests can admire the sea of clouds and mountain views. Luggage handling can be challenging, but staff provide assistance.

Immaculately cleaned and equipped to high-end hotel standards. Rooms come with premium coffee machines and hair dryers, offering a truly upscale experience.

How to Get to Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) from Shangrao City

The best way to reach the valley is by scenic shuttle bus. The distance from downtown Shangrao to Vagoo makes taxis relatively expensive (130–150 CNY), while the shuttle costs only 30 CNY per person — perfect for small families. The buses run frequently and are highly recommended.

Scenic Shuttle Bus

From Shangrao High-Speed Railway Station, travelers can take a direct scenic shuttle to Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) — fast and convenient. If you’re not hiring a private car, this is the most reliable option.

Note: For return trips, leave early. After 8 PM, roads back to the city become heavily congested.

  • Fare: 30 CNY (1-hour ride)
  • Departures (Shangrao → Vagoo): 7:40, 8:00, 8:30, 9:30, 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 13:00, 13:30, 14:30, 15:30, 16:00
  • Departures (Vagoo → Shangrao): 10:00, 11:30, 12:30, 13:30, 14:30, 15:30, 17:00, 18:00, 19:00, 20:00, 20:30, 21:00
  • Tip: Always purchase your return bus tickets in advance!

How to Get to Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) from Shangrao Sanqingshan Airport

Shangrao Sanqingshan Airport is about 1.5 hours by car from Vagoo (Wangxian Valley). A direct taxi ride costs around 120 CNY. There’s no direct public transport to the valley, but since Shangrao city lies between the airport and the destination, the most convenient route is: Take a taxi from the airport to Shangrao High-Speed Railway Station (about 30 CNY, 20 minutes), then transfer to the scenic shuttle bus to reach Vagoo.

FAQ

Is Vagoo (Wangxian Valley) suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?

Not recommended. Although there are some flat areas, most paths are uneven stone steps, making it very difficult for strollers and wheelchairs.

Where can I store my luggage?

After entering the Visitor Center, turn right — there are lockers available. Each locker costs 30 CNY and can store one suitcase.