De'an Castle

Introducing De'an Castle

De'an Castle, also known as Tingxi Castle, Wufeng Castle and De'an Tulou, is a unique earthen building made of pebbles in the world. The scenic area is located in Wufeng Village, Tingxi Town, Tong'an District, one of the most beautiful villages in Xiamen. It is surrounded by Tingxi Reservoir in the south, Yunding Mountain in the north, Zaoshui Village in the east, and Tingxi Forest Farm in the west. It is 14 kilometers away from the urban area and 40 kilometers away from Xiamen Island. It has a total area of ​​826,200 square meters, with convenient transportation and beautiful natural scenery. It was built during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty and has a profound traditional folk culture.

It is one of the first rural tourism demonstration sites in Xiamen that integrates catering, accommodation, sightseeing, vacation and other leisure and entertainment. It has famous attractions such as the ancient castle, Shuangxi, waterfalls, lotus ponds, Baiguoyuan, Jiufeng Zen Temple, and Jueyuan Academy.

Wufeng Village is a Fujian Province agricultural tourism demonstration site; one of Xiamen's top ten beautiful rural tourist attractions in 2008 and one of Xiamen's first rural tourism demonstration sites. As a provincial and municipal star rural tourism demonstration site, De'an Castle Ecological Manor is currently a member of the Leisure Agriculture and Rural Tourism Branch of the China Tourism Association and a 4A-level scenic spot in Fujian Province. We welcome tourists from all over the country and even the world to experience this paradise where pristine nature and humanities perfectly combine!

Climate and best time to travel

In the subtropical marine monsoon climate, Jueyuan Academy is located beside the stream. The academy is backed by an ancient castle and faces the stream and waterfall. The decoration is ancient and has a strong Zen atmosphere. It is a place that integrates Zen tea culture, Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism culture, and is suitable for all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The characters "Jueyuan" were inscribed on a stone tablet unearthed during the renovation of De'an Fort by descendants of Xu Shangguan, the Qing Dynasty owner of the fort. Legend has it that the Guan Yu Hall was named "Jueyuan," with the "Jue" character being an abbreviation of the "Guan Sheng Dijun Jueshi Zhenjing," and the "Yuan" referring to the hall.

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for De'an Castle

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

De'an Castle is a historic military fortress built to protect the area. It has witnessed many battles and has significant historical value in the context of Xiamen’s military history. The castle’s architecture and its strategic location make it a key attraction in the city.

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

De'an Castle is located in the northern part of Xiamen. It can be accessed by taxi, public bus, or a 15-minute walk from nearby areas. The nearest metro station is a short ride away, followed by a brief walk to the castle.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The castle is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds and enjoy the cool breeze.

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

The entrance fee is usually around 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site or in advance online via official platforms.

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

Booking in advance is not required for general visits, but it’s advisable to book online during peak tourist seasons or if there are special events or tours.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes around 1-2 hours to explore the castle, depending on your interest in history, photography, and the surrounding views.

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

The main highlights include the castle’s watchtower, the surrounding gardens, and the panoramic views from the top of the fortress. Don't miss the museum exhibits showcasing the history of the castle.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may also offer English explanations. Audio guides may also be available for rent.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are from the castle’s top terrace and the surrounding areas, offering panoramic views of the city and the coast. The sunrises and sunsets make for excellent photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the entrance area, then make your way up to the ramparts for great views. Visit the museum inside the castle, then walk around the castle grounds to appreciate the architecture and landscaping.

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

Night visits are not typically offered, but the castle is beautifully lit at night from the outside. Special tours may be available during specific holidays or festivals.

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

The castle can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays in the morning or late afternoon.

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

There are basic facilities including restrooms and water fountains. A small shop may sell souvenirs, and there are a few local food stalls outside the castle for snacks.

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

The castle has some stairs and uneven paths, making it a bit challenging for visitors with mobility issues. It may be suitable for elderly and children who can walk carefully, but strollers or wheelchairs may find it difficult to navigate.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is accepted, most ticket counters and shops accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay. It’s a good idea to carry both cash and your mobile for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local eateries near the castle offering traditional Xiamen food, including seafood and snacks like oyster omelets and peanut soup.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available at nearby restaurants. Halal food options may be more limited but can be found in specialized eateries.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby accommodations include the Xiamen International Seaside Hotel, Pan Pacific Xiamen, and more budget-friendly options like Xiamen Youth Hostel.

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

Nearby attractions include Gulangyu Island, Zhongshan Road, and Xiamen University. These can easily be combined in a day trip to explore both historical and cultural sites.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops offering local arts and crafts, tea sets, and snacks such as Xiamen’s famous dried seafood and nuts.

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

The best options include taking a taxi or local bus to other nearby attractions, such as Gulangyu Island or Xiamen’s main shopping streets.