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Climb to the top for panoramic views of Xiamen city, visit the ancient Lion Mountain Temple, and enjoy a peaceful hike through the mountain trails. Explore the lion-shaped rock formations and take photographs of the beautiful scenery and historical sites.
Shishan, also known as Wanshishan, is located east of Gongyuan Road in downtown Xiamen, Fujian Province. Its rock formations are composed of peaks such as Wanshiyan, Zhongyan, Taipingyan, Ziyunyan, and Huxiyan. The rocks here are uniquely shaped, resembling bells, elephants, bamboo shoots, screens, camels, tigers, and many other lifelike forms.
The scenery of Shishan is characterized by its unique rocks, caves, and clear springs. It is a blend of mountain, rock, water, and treescapes. The "Little Peach Blossom Spring" and "Wanshi Lake" are particularly outstanding. After sunrise, visitors can even hear the calls of partridges. There are also numerous cliff carvings here, which are of great research value.
Subtropical monsoon humid climate;
Suitable for all seasons, best in spring and autumn
It is recommended to play for 1 to 2 hours
40 yuan
6:00-18:00
Lion Mountain, known for its iconic lion-shaped peaks, is one of Xiamen's most famous natural attractions. The area has cultural and historical significance as it houses ancient temples and has long been a place for local worship and reflection. It also offers an excellent vantage point to view the city's landscape.
Lion Mountain is located in the southern part of Xiamen. You can reach it by taking a taxi or bus from the city center. The mountain is accessible via hiking trails, making it ideal for those who enjoy a scenic walk.
Lion Mountain is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
The entrance fee is around 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through local ticketing platforms online.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, but during peak tourist seasons or holidays, it’s recommended to buy tickets a day or two in advance to ensure availability.
A visit typically takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you spend hiking and exploring the temples. If you enjoy photography or want to explore the surroundings in detail, allow for additional time.
The main highlights include the Lion Mountain Temple, the scenic viewpoints at the summit, and the unique lion-shaped rock formations. Don't miss the peaceful hiking trails and the scenic views of Xiamen city from the top.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available in both Chinese and English, but it’s advisable to check availability on arrival.
The best photography spots are the summit, where you can capture panoramic views of Xiamen, and the unique lion-shaped rocks that give the mountain its name. Sunset and sunrise offer great lighting for photos.
Start at the base and hike up the trails to the summit for the best views. Along the way, stop by the Lion Mountain Temple and explore the rock formations. Once at the top, take in the panoramic views before heading back down.
There are no night visits or light shows at Lion Mountain. However, the mountain is a peaceful spot for an evening stroll, and the views of the city lights from the summit are impressive after dark.
The site can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. Early mornings on weekdays are the least crowded times to visit.
Basic facilities, such as restrooms and drinking water, are available at the entrance and along the hiking trails. There are also small shops selling snacks and souvenirs at the base of the mountain.
Lion Mountain has hiking trails with some steep sections, so it may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, the temple area and the base are accessible, and there are rest areas for breaks.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted, and credit cards are also accepted in most places. It’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.
There are several local restaurants and cafes near the base of Lion Mountain that serve Fujianese cuisine. These include casual eateries offering seafood, noodles, and local specialties.
Vegetarian options are available in the nearby restaurants, though vegan and halal options may be limited in this area. It’s best to ask at the restaurants for specific dietary requirements.
There are a variety of accommodations near the base of Lion Mountain, ranging from budget hotels to more upscale options. Popular choices include local guesthouses and international hotel chains.
Nearby attractions include the Xiamen University, Gulangyu Island, and Zhongshan Road. These can easily be combined in a day trip along with a visit to Lion Mountain.
There are souvenir shops near the entrance selling items such as local handicrafts, postcards, and small trinkets. Popular souvenirs include traditional Fujianese crafts and artwork featuring the mountain’s lion-shaped rocks.
After visiting Lion Mountain, you can take a taxi or use public transportation to explore nearby attractions such as Xiamen University or Gulangyu Island. The metro is also a good option for further sightseeing in Xiamen.
