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Explore the underwater ancient forest relics and enjoy snorkeling or diving to observe unique marine life. Take a guided tour to learn about the historical and ecological significance of the site. Visit the coastal areas for scenic views and engage in eco-friendly activities to help preserve the area.
The Fujian Shenhu Bay Undersea Ancient Forest Relics National Nature Reserve and the Fujian Shenhu Bay Undersea Ancient Forest Relics were approved by the State Council as national nature reserves in 1992. It is located in Shenhu Town, Jinjiang City, Fujian Province, a famous town in southern Shanxi known as the "Golden Lion Standing on the Sea". It is a national marine nature reserve whose main content is to protect the underwater ancient forest dating back more than 7,500 years, the ancient oyster reef relics dating back 9,000 to 25,000 years, and the typical geological and landforms of the surrounding coastal areas. The main protected objects are the underwater ancient forests and oyster reef relics, which are of great value to the study of paleogeography, paleobotany, paleoclimate and sea-land changes 20,000 years ago.
The Shenhu Bay Undersea Ancient Forest Relics National Nature Reserve in Fujian Province preserves a diverse range of coastal landscapes, including sandy coasts, red clay coasts, and bedrock coasts. From Shenhu Bay to Weitoujiao, a series of fine-sand, gently sloping arc-shaped bays alternate with bedrock headlands, creating a unique landscape.
Located in the subtropical humid climate zone, the Shenhu Bay Ancient Undersea Forest Relics, covering an area of 31 square kilometers, is located within Shenlu Bay in Jinjiang City. The protected areas include ancient underwater forests, oyster reefs, and marine metamorphic rocks. This type of protected area is rare in my country and the world, offering a year-round experience.
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
Free and open
Open all day
Shenhuwan Undersea Ancient Forest Relics Nature Reserve is an underwater archaeological site in Fujian, China. The forest, believed to be thousands of years old, has been submerged under water due to rising sea levels. The reserve plays a crucial role in preserving the unique ecosystem and marine life that thrives in these ancient remains.
Located in the coastal area of Shenhuwan, Quanzhou, Fujian. It is best accessed by taxi or private car from the city center of Quanzhou. Public transport options are limited, so using a taxi or rental car is recommended for ease of access.
The site is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October, as weather conditions are more favorable for water-based activities like diving and snorkeling. It is less crowded on weekdays and in the morning hours.
Entrance fees are generally affordable, typically ranging from 50-100 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance of the reserve. It is recommended to check for online booking availability, especially during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or weekends. Booking a few days in advance can ensure availability, especially for guided tours.
To fully explore the site, including diving or snorkeling experiences and guided tours, around 3 to 4 hours are recommended. For those interested in learning more about the ecological and historical aspects, it may take up to half a day.
The submerged forest area is the primary highlight, where visitors can see the ancient tree stumps and unique marine ecosystem. Guided tours also cover the surrounding coastal areas, showcasing the pristine environment and local marine life.
Guided tours are available in both Chinese and English. These tours provide insightful explanations of the underwater forest’s significance and the surrounding environment. Audio guides may also be available, but they are more commonly offered in Chinese.
The best photography spots are at the edge of the underwater forest, where you can capture the stunning contrast of ancient trees and vibrant marine life. Coastal viewpoints also provide beautiful landscapes for scenic photos, particularly during sunrise or sunset.
It is recommended to start with a visit to the coastal viewing points, followed by the main underwater relic area. A guided tour will then take you through the history of the site and the marine ecosystem, with time allocated for snorkeling or diving.
Night visits are not typically available, as the site is primarily focused on daylight activities like snorkeling and diving. Special tours may be arranged during peak seasons or for educational purposes, but these are generally daytime events.
The site can get crowded on weekends and during national holidays. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays, especially in the mornings before noon.
Basic facilities such as toilets, water stations, and rest areas are available. However, there are limited food options on-site. It is advisable to bring water and snacks if you plan to stay for an extended period.
The site is primarily suited for active visitors, particularly those interested in water activities like snorkeling or diving. Elderly or disabled visitors may find the terrain challenging, particularly in the coastal and underwater areas.
Cash is commonly used, but some on-site shops may accept mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay. Credit cards are rarely accepted, so it's best to carry cash.
There are a few small local restaurants near the entrance, offering traditional Fujian cuisine. For a wider range of dining options, you can visit Quanzhou city, which is about 30 minutes away by car.
Some local restaurants offer vegetarian and halal options, but these may be limited. It is recommended to check ahead or visit Quanzhou for more diverse food choices.
There are limited accommodations directly near the site, but hotels and guesthouses are available in Quanzhou city. Options include the Quanzhou Hotel and other budget-friendly hotels in the city center.
Nearby attractions include the Quanzhou Maritime Museum, the Kaiyuan Temple, and the Fujian Tulou, which can be easily visited on a day trip from Shenhuwan.
There are small souvenir shops near the site selling local handicrafts, marine-themed products, and traditional Fujian items such as tea and silk goods.
After visiting Shenhuwan, you can take a taxi or a bus to Quanzhou for further exploration. If you are heading to other nearby attractions, renting a car is recommended for flexibility.
