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Explore the historical military headquarters, learn about its strategic importance in the region, and enjoy the scenic surroundings. The site offers a glimpse into military history and is ideal for photography and historical exploration.
The Haitan Town General's Headquarters (China Haitan Coastal Defense Museum), located in the ancient city of Haitan in Pingtan, is a private museum with the theme of coastal defense culture. Its total exhibition area is about 3,000 square meters. The museum uses real landscapes, 1 : 1 wax figures, and naked-eye holographic imaging technology to truly present the Haitan coastal defense and naval culture during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, and truly present the glorious history of the Haitan people in resisting aggression and foreign aggression.
The General's Office was an important military headquarters in ancient times. The main hall, known as the Tiger Festival Hall, served as a crucial venue for the General's meetings. The hall's furnishings adhered perfectly to the Ming Dynasty's main hall layout. The floor was paved with gold bricks, also known as imperial kiln gold bricks. These high-quality paving bricks were used exclusively for palaces and other important buildings in ancient times. Because of their hard and fine texture, they made a metallic clang when struck, hence the name "gold brick."
The inner hall houses the largest indoor warship model in the province - a 13- meter-long replica of the Ganzang warship, which is one of the main attractions of the museum . The replica of the Ganzang warship was built on site in a 1:2 ratio to the original ship. It has a pointed bottom, a flat head, a total length of 13 meters and a beam of 4.5 meters. It was the official main warship of the early and middle Qing Dynasty.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
40 yuan/person
9:00-18:00 , last admission at 17:00
The Haitan Town General Military Headquarters is a historic site in Fujian that served as a key military command center during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It holds significant cultural value as a representation of military strategy and historical defense in southern China.
The military headquarters is located in Haitan Town, Fuzhou. It can be accessed by taxi or bus from the city center. Public transport options are available, but it is recommended to use a taxi for more convenience.
The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Early mornings and weekdays tend to be less crowded, making these the best times to visit.
The entrance fee is typically low, around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site. No online purchase is necessary.
No, advance booking is not required. Tickets can be purchased on-site upon arrival.
It takes around 1-2 hours to fully explore the site, depending on your interest in history and photography.
The main highlight is the historical military structures and the surrounding defensive fortifications. The view from the top of the headquarters offers a panoramic view of the area.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, but it may be difficult to find English-speaking guides. Audio guides are generally not provided, so a local guide is recommended for a more enriching experience.
The best photography spots are from the elevated areas around the headquarters, which provide sweeping views of the town and surrounding landscapes.
Start by exploring the main military structures, then move on to the scenic viewpoints for panoramic photos. The entire site is relatively compact, so you can complete the route in about an hour.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available. It is recommended to visit during daylight to fully appreciate the site's historical significance and views.
The site is generally not very crowded except during national holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings or weekdays.
The site has basic facilities including toilets and rest areas. There are no food or beverage services inside, but local shops and restaurants are available nearby.
The site is mostly accessible, but some parts of the headquarters may require walking up stairs or navigating uneven terrain, which could be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.
Cash is typically accepted, and mobile payments such as WeChat Pay or Alipay are also widely used. Credit card payments are not commonly accepted on-site.
There are several local Chinese restaurants nearby offering Fujianese cuisine. Cafes and small eateries are also available in the vicinity of the site.
Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants, though halal food options might be limited. It’s best to check with the restaurant beforehand.
There are a few mid-range hotels and guesthouses in the area, such as the Haitan Hotel and local homestays. For higher-end accommodations, consider staying in Fuzhou city center and taking a short trip to the site.
Nearby attractions include the Fuzhou National Forest Park, Wuyi Square, and the Fujian Museum. These can be easily combined in a day trip.
There are a few local souvenir shops selling traditional Fujian handicrafts, tea, and military memorabilia. These make for great gifts and keepsakes.
Taxis, buses, or private cars are the best options to continue your journey after visiting. Public transport is also available but may require a few transfers.
