Liancheng Four Forts

Introducing Liancheng Four Forts

Sibao Town, located northwest of Liancheng County, is the county's northernmost village. At the foot of the towering Aofeng Mountain, it sits on the border of Liancheng, Changting, Qingliu, and Ninghua counties. Its name, "Sibao," coined the ancient meaning of "four counties leaning against each other," gave it its name. Sibao Town's residents are Han Chinese. Some have speculated that Sibao residents were ethnic minorities based on the distinctive clothing of Sibao women, which resembles that of a certain ethnic minority, but this is unfounded.

Each village holds an annual temple fair, such as Wuge's "Qiji" (the seventh day of the seventh lunar month) and Mawu's "14th day of the first lunar month." During the Lantern Festival, each village celebrates lantern displays and dragon lantern parades, with Wuge's "Old Dragon" being the most representative. Sibao's dragon lanterns are also quite distinctive. The dragon heads are meticulously crafted, lifelike, and painted with various designs. At night, candlelight casts a more vivid shadow.

The ancient town of Sibao was once renowned for its thriving woodblock printing industry, becoming the best-preserved of the four major woodblock printing bases in China during the Ming and Qing dynasties and designated a "Famous Historical and Cultural Town in Fujian Province." Walking through Wuge Village, you'll see weathered houses with towering gatehouses, soaring eaves, and the fragrance of books. These are ancient bookshops. Over a hundred sites known as "yinfangli" (printing houses) still exist in Wuge Village alone. Sibao's printing houses were primarily family-run workshops, often operated by families for generations, embodying distinct characteristics of both family ownership and private ownership.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for about half a day

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Liancheng Four Forts

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

The Liancheng Four Forts are a historical site consisting of four ancient forts built during the Ming Dynasty for defense against pirates and invaders. These forts are an important representation of Chinese military architecture and strategy from the era, preserving the historical significance of coastal defense in Fujian.

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

The Liancheng Four Forts are located in Liancheng, Longyan, Fujian. The best way to get there is by taxi or private car from Longyan city center. Public transportation options may be limited, so planning ahead is recommended.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Liancheng Four Forts are typically open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn, when the weather is more pleasant, and weekdays to avoid the crowds of weekends and holidays.

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

The entrance fee to the Liancheng Four Forts is around ¥30-50, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and there are no online ticketing options available for general admission.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required for regular visits. However, if visiting during peak tourist seasons or holidays, it may be helpful to book tickets a few days in advance to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes about 2-3 hours to fully explore the Liancheng Four Forts, including the surrounding scenic areas and any guided tours or museum exhibits.

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

The main highlights include the four forts themselves, the defense walls, and the impressive watchtowers. The historical museum inside the site offers great insight into the region’s military history.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and can be arranged at the entrance. Audio guides are not available, but the knowledgeable local guides provide in-depth explanations of the forts' historical significance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the top of the watchtowers, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coastline. The fort walls and architectural details also provide excellent photography opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main entrance and walking through each fort in a circular route. Begin with the largest fort, then move towards the smaller ones. Make sure to stop at the scenic overlooks for some beautiful views. Finish your visit at the museum to learn more about the historical context of the site.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available at Liancheng Four Forts. However, the site’s peaceful atmosphere makes for a pleasant evening stroll, especially after most tourists have left.

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

The Liancheng Four Forts can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid large crowds, it’s best to visit on weekdays, especially early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available on-site. There are no large food outlets, so it’s recommended to bring snacks and water. Small souvenir shops are available for visitors interested in taking home mementos.

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

The site includes some uneven terrain and steep steps, so it may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children will enjoy the open spaces and exploration of the forts. It’s advisable to check with the site’s staff about accessibility options before visiting.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is generally required for admission and on-site purchases. Mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay may be accepted at souvenir shops, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants directly inside the Liancheng Four Forts, but nearby Longyan city offers a variety of local eateries serving Fujian cuisine, including seafood, noodles, and local snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are available at local restaurants in Longyan. Halal options may be limited, so it’s advisable to ask at restaurants ahead of time to ensure availability.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Longyan city, ranging from budget to mid-range options. Hotels in the city center provide convenient access to the Liancheng Four Forts, located a short drive away.

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

Nearby attractions include the Fujian Tulou, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing traditional earthen buildings. You can also explore the Xiamen city area and its coastal attractions as part of a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the entrance of the Liancheng Four Forts. Typical souvenirs include locally made handicrafts, pottery, and military-themed items related to the forts' history.

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

After visiting the Liancheng Four Forts, you can continue your trip by taking a taxi or bus to Longyan city for further exploration or transfer to other nearby destinations. Renting a car is also a good option for flexibility.