Bantou Forest Park

What are the most recommended things to do in Bantou Forest Park?

  • Explore the tranquil walking paths through the lush forest and enjoy the diverse plant life.
  • Relax by the peaceful lakes and scenic areas, perfect for picnics or reading.
  • Take a leisurely bike ride around the park to explore its expansive grounds.
  • Visit the observation decks for panoramic views of the surrounding area and forest.
  • Photograph the wildlife, such as birds and small animals, which frequent the park.

Introducing Bantou Forest Park

Bantou Forest Park is located in the northwest suburbs of Xiamen, 36 kilometers from downtown. Surrounded by mountains, it vie for beauty. Lush trees adorn the hills, and unusual rock formations are hidden among the tall trees. Bantou Reservoir, located near Bantou Village, boasts a capacity of 3.5 million cubic meters and boasts clear, fresh water. Its winding path along the mountainside creates a truly spectacular sight.  

Bantou Forest Park is quite large, with native vegetation predominantly located within the park, along with artificial fruit trees. The park is home to numerous peaks, making hiking possible. Overall, Bantou Park, with its combination of mountains and water, is ideal for photography, hiking, mountaineering, fishing, barbecues, and camping.

The park boasts a superior geographical location and abundant forest tourism resources. The unique natural environment has created numerous stone eggs, caves, and other stone features of various shapes, as well as winding mountains, lush forests, and rippling lakes, forming a magnificent main image and laying the foundation for the forest park's tourism development.

Climate and best time to travel

The scenic area has a subtropical marine climate, diverse vegetation types, large forest stock, high forest coverage, and vigorous growth, forming an overall forest landscape that is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Wildlife resources

The scenic area is rich in wildlife resources, including mountain eagles, waterfowl, hares, antelopes, wild boars, etc. The park's complex terrain, multi-layered and diverse forest vegetation, and vast water surface provide an excellent environment for wildlife to live and reproduce, making it an ideal wildlife breeding ground.

Waterscape

  The Emerald Island nestled in the heart of Bantou Lake, the Jade Plate Island nestled beside Shidou Lake, the Qingshi Creek beneath the White Tiger Rock, the Puwei Bay and Lakeside Listening to the Sea in Puwei, the Kengzi Rapids in Kengzikeng, the Duxi Waterfall at the foot of Xiaoxi Mountain, and the Three Caves of Longtan, among other water features, the two clear, pure, and vast lakes blend harmoniously with the verdant forest vegetation, forming a picturesque landscape of lakes and mountains.

Mountain landscape

  The scenic area includes peaks such as White Tiger Rock, Fangshan, Dafengshan, Gushan, Bijiashan, Tiejianshan, Damaijian, Wuhushan, and Xiaoxishan. Bijiashan is the highest peak in the park, at 893 meters. These peaks and rocks are breathtakingly beautiful, vivid, and lifelike, greatly enriching the forest park's attractions.

It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day


Most Popular FAQs for Bantou Forest Park

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Bantou Forest Park is an important natural reserve in Xiamen, known for its rich biodiversity and environmental significance. The park is dedicated to preserving the natural ecosystem and promoting awareness of forest conservation.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Bantou Forest Park is located in the eastern part of Xiamen. It can be accessed by taxi, bus, or car. The park is also within walking distance from nearby residential areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the heat and crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately 20 RMB for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the park entrance or in advance via the park's official website for convenience.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is not required for general visits, but it is recommended during peak seasons or public holidays to secure a spot and avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A typical visit takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you spend walking, cycling, or enjoying the nature trails.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • The panoramic observation decks offering stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • The peaceful lakes and the wooded paths that allow visitors to enjoy nature up close.
  • The diverse plant species and wildlife, especially in the more secluded areas of the park.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in English and Mandarin can be rented at the entrance for a more informative experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The main observation decks that offer a sweeping view of the entire park and surrounding areas.
  • The lakeside areas, which provide great reflections of the surrounding forest and sky.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Start at the entrance, walk along the forested trails, then head to the observation decks for scenic views. Finish with a visit to the lakeside areas for a relaxing end to your visit.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not currently available at Bantou Forest Park. The park is primarily a daytime attraction.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The park can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays or in the early morning on weekends.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are clean toilets, drinking water stations, and rest areas throughout the park. However, food options are limited within the park, so it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks or head to nearby restaurants after your visit.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The park is generally accessible for elderly and children, with well-maintained paths and seating areas. Some of the more rugged trails may not be suitable for visitors with mobility impairments.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted at the park's entrance and shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no major restaurants inside the park, but nearby Xiamen city offers a wide variety of dining options, including Chinese, seafood, and international cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Nearby restaurants in Xiamen city provide vegetarian and vegan options, and some may offer halal food as well, especially in the more diverse neighborhoods.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Xiamen International Conference Center Hotel
  • Huaqiao International Hotel
  • Several budget accommodations are available in the vicinity for those looking for affordable options.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Nanputuo Temple, a Buddhist temple with beautiful gardens and a rich history.
  • Gulangyu Island, a short ferry ride away, known for its colonial architecture and scenic walks.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The park does not have many souvenir shops, but you can find nature-related crafts or small gifts in Xiamen city.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the park, you can take a taxi or public bus to nearby attractions like Gulangyu Island or Nanputuo Temple. The metro system also offers convenient connections to other parts of Xiamen.