Strange Slope
What are the most recommended things to do in Strange Slope?
Visit the Strange Slope to experience the optical illusion where objects appear to roll uphill. It's a fun and mysterious place to take photos, explore the unusual terrain, and challenge your perception of gravity. You can also enjoy walking around the area, take in the scenic views, and learn about the phenomenon that makes the slope so unique.
Introducing Strange Slope
Xiamen's Strange Slope is located on the road from Wenzeng Road to Banling Palace in Xiamen. It is about 50 meters long and 10 meters wide. The strange thing about this strange slope is that things will roll from the bottom to the top, no matter how hard you try.
Later, surveyors from the Municipal Highway Bureau arrived at the site of the "strange slope" on Wenzeng Road and measured it. They measured every 5 meters for a total of 70 meters. The results confirmed that the so-called "bottom of the slope" was actually 1.395 meters higher than the "top," with a slope of 2%. The surveyors concluded that the "strange slope" was actually a visual error caused by people's surrounding reference points.
Experts from the Highway Administration analyzed that the "strange slope" on Wenzeng Road is located near an intersection. From this point, the upper slope is higher, while the lower slope is lower, which makes the road appear to be uphill. Scientific measurement data proves that the "strange slope" is not strange at all, but rather a deception of the eyes.
Climate and best time to travel
Subtropical monsoon humid climate;
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
It is recommended to play for half an hour
Tickets
free
Attraction opening hours
All day
Most Popular FAQs for Strange Slope
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
The Strange Slope in Xiamen is an area known for its gravity-defying optical illusion, where objects seem to move uphill despite the slope being downhill. It has become a popular destination for those curious about the natural world and optical illusions, drawing visitors who want to experience this puzzling phenomenon firsthand.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
The Strange Slope is located in Xiamen, Fujian. It can be reached by taxi, private car, or local bus from the city center. The nearest metro station is about a 20-minute drive away, so taxis are the most convenient option for most visitors.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
The Strange Slope is open throughout the day, typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photos.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
Entry to the Strange Slope is usually free, but there may be a small fee for parking or other local services. Tickets are not required for entry, and you can simply walk up to the area to explore.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
No advance booking is necessary for visiting the Strange Slope as it is an open public area. Just show up and explore the phenomenon on your own.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
You can explore the Strange Slope in about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how long you spend taking photos and walking around. It’s not a large area, but the unique optical illusion will keep you engaged for some time.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
The main highlight is the Strange Slope itself, where the optical illusion occurs. Don’t miss the chance to experiment with the visual effects by placing small objects and watching them seemingly roll uphill!
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
There are no formal guided tours or audio guides at the Strange Slope, but you can find some local guides offering insights about the optical illusion. Most explanations are in Mandarin, but basic English may be available for tourists.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
The best viewpoints are at the base of the slope and along the sides, where you can capture the effect of objects appearing to roll uphill. The surrounding area also offers beautiful natural scenery for photos.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
Start at the bottom of the slope, walk up to experience the optical illusion, and take some fun photos. You can walk around the perimeter of the slope for a few different angles and views.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
There are no night visits or special light shows at the Strange Slope. It’s best to visit during daylight hours to experience the optical illusion clearly.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
The Strange Slope is popular with tourists, especially on weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings or weekdays during non-peak seasons.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
Basic facilities such as toilets and small shops may be available around the area. There are limited food options, so it’s a good idea to bring water and snacks if you plan to stay for a while.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
The Strange Slope is accessible for most visitors, but the steep terrain may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Children will enjoy the optical illusion, but make sure to keep an eye on them as the slope can be steep in some areas.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash is accepted, but mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in the area. Credit cards are less commonly accepted in small local shops around the slope.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
There are limited food options directly around the Strange Slope. However, there are several local restaurants and cafes a short drive away in Xiamen where you can enjoy local cuisine.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options may be available at nearby restaurants, but halal food options are less common in the immediate area. Consider traveling to Xiamen city for a wider selection of international cuisines.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
There are no hotels directly at the Strange Slope, but Xiamen city has a wide range of accommodations from budget to luxury. Popular hotels in the city center are a short drive away.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
Nearby attractions include the Nanputuo Temple, Xiamen University, and Gulangyu Island. You can easily combine these with a visit to the Strange Slope for a full day trip in Xiamen.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
Small souvenir shops may be available near the Strange Slope, selling local handicrafts, trinkets, and souvenirs related to the optical illusion. For more extensive souvenir shopping, head to Xiamen city center.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
The best transportation options after visiting the Strange Slope are taxis or private cars to continue to other attractions in Xiamen. Public buses and metro stations are also available in nearby areas.
