
Zhu'an Village is a scenic spot within the Guanzhi Mountain Scenic Area. Tucked away in the secluded mountains, it's far from the hustle and bustle of the city. Once a fortified refuge, it's now a cultural wonder documenting the history of Guanzhi Mountain, attracting visitors to explore and explore.
Journeying through the Zhuanzhai Scenic Area, one will be struck by the rare and breathtaking wonders of "danger, wonder, and grandeur." The scenic area's "danger" lies in the "Motianling" (Sky Staircase). A staircase of 365 narrow stone steps, carved along the steep ridge, reaches the sky, flanked by deep ravines and cliffs. The 365 stone steps, carved along the steep ridge, lead directly to the inner village of Zhuanzhai. Looking up at the Motianling (Sky Staircase), one feels a sense of soaring into the sky, towering over the heavens. The stone steps are flanked by deep cliffs and ravines, including a section of 100-step echoing staircase. Visitors stomping their feet here will hear a gurgling sound, hence the name "Ringing Drum Stone."
The scenic area's most remarkable feature is the "Longevity Stone." Northeast of Zhu'an Village stands a mountain shaped like an old man, with lifelike eyes, nose, eyebrows, and beard. To its south, another mountain resembles an eagle about to take flight, earning it the nickname "Eagle Spreading Wings." This massive mountain, a natural creation, has created a unique sight, truly unparalleled in the world. Truly, humans hold the secret to longevity, and mountains possess the spirit of longevity.
The most spectacular feature of the scenic area is the "Water Gate Wall," a perfectly square rock wall several thousand meters high and wide, several feet thick. Rising from the ground, it stands as a barrier, its edges vertically forming a gate. Its surface shimmers like a flowing stream, hence the name "Water Gate Wall." It is said to have been formed by the fracture of rock strata during ancient orogeny. This wall, resembling a sleek wall, is approximately 200 meters long, 70 meters high, and 8 meters wide at its summit, exuding extraordinary grandeur.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons, spring and summer are the best
Laiyuan Cave Ticket: 60 yuan
May 1st - October 31st 08:00-17:30
November 30th - April 30th of the following year, 08:30-17:00
Zhuan Village is known for its rich history and well-preserved architecture, typical of the Hakka culture. The village features buildings constructed with unique materials and techniques that have been passed down for generations. The village serves as an excellent example of traditional rural life in Fujian and is a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Chinese builders.
Zhuan Village is located in Longyan, Fujian Province. To reach the village, take a high-speed train to Longyan city, and then hire a taxi or take a local bus to the village. If you're traveling from nearby cities like Xiamen, organized tours are also available.
The village is open year-round, and there are no specific opening hours. However, the best times to visit are during the spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor exploration.
There is no fixed entrance fee for visiting Zhuan Village. However, some specific sites within the village, like ancestral halls or temples, may charge a small fee for entry. Tickets can be bought onsite or through local tour agencies.
Advance booking is not usually required, though it's recommended during peak tourist seasons (e.g., Chinese holidays). Booking 1-2 days ahead should suffice if you're planning to visit during busy periods.
You can fully explore Zhuan Village in about 2-3 hours, especially if you want to take your time walking through the village, visiting historical sites, and enjoying the local cuisine.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may offer English-speaking guides during peak seasons. Audio guides in Mandarin and English may also be available at certain sites within the village.
The best viewpoints are from the tops of the village’s surrounding hills, offering panoramic views of the traditional houses and the surrounding rural landscape. The village's winding pathways also provide picturesque photography opportunities.
Start by exploring the main village pathways and visit the ancestral halls. From there, take a walk through the countryside to visit the traditional Hakka houses and local temples. If you're interested in photography, take your time to capture the scenic vistas from the surrounding hills.
Night visits are not typically available in Zhuan Village. However, during local festivals or special events, there may be cultural performances or small light displays in the evening. It is best to check the local event schedule before your visit.
Zhuan Village can get crowded during Chinese holidays and weekends. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit on weekdays outside of the peak holiday seasons, such as during the spring or autumn months.
The village has basic facilities, including toilets and small food stalls where you can try local snacks. There are also small shops selling souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Zhuan Village involves some walking on uneven paths, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the village, but parents should be mindful of the terrain. Comfortable footwear is recommended for everyone.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely used and convenient for transactions in the village, especially for food and souvenirs.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near Zhuan Village offering traditional Hakka cuisine, including tofu dishes, rice cakes, and noodle soups. Some may have scenic views of the village and surrounding countryside.
Vegetarian options are available in most local restaurants, as many Hakka dishes are plant-based. Halal food may be more difficult to find, but larger towns nearby offer more options.
There are small guesthouses and inns near Zhuan Village, offering basic accommodations. For more comfortable options, visitors can stay in Longyan city, which is about 40 minutes away by taxi.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in Zhuan Village selling traditional Hakka handicrafts, including embroidered textiles, wooden carvings, and local teas.
After visiting Zhuan Village, you can take a taxi or bus back to Longyan city for onward travel. Longyan’s train station provides high-speed connections to major cities in Fujian and beyond.