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Hike the scenic trails of Ruiyun Mountain to experience its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. You can also visit the temples and pagodas located on the mountain, offering cultural insights and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Ruiyun Mountain, located in Chenda Town, Sanming City, Fujian Province, 14 kilometers from the city center, is named for the colorful clouds often seen swirling around the mountain. The scenic area covers 10 square kilometers, reaching a peak elevation of 1,249.8 meters. It combines unique volcanic rock formations with rich evergreen broad-leaved forests, making it the largest volcanic rock scenic area in Fujian Province.
Seowon Cave
The cave is 30 meters deep, 61 meters wide, and over 4 meters high, shaped like a lion's gaping mouth. A canopy of lush pines crowns the cave's roof, while a gurgling stream, like a curtain of pearls, hangs year-round at the entrance. The stone walls of the cave entrance are carved with inscriptions dating back to the Song Dynasty. Among them is the inscription "You Rong" (You Rong) by Guan Zhihan, the Censor, during his lectures there during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty (1736-1795), and couplets such as "A person hides a raw jade within the stone; visitors to the cave entrance are separated by a curtain of pearls." A five-bay wooden temple, built during the Song Dynasty, stands on the cliffside, dedicated to Buddha, Daoist deities, and local deities. It is a popular shrine and has undergone numerous renovations since the Ming Dynasty. The stone gate in front of the cave was built during the Kangxi reign of the Qing Dynasty (1662-1722), and is engraved with the characters "Ruiyun Cave." The single-arch stone bridge in front of the gate dates back to the Ming Dynasty and boasts a simple, elegant style.
The subtropical monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
Major attractions include Ruiyun Cave, Bat Cave, Longevity Spring, Horse Head Peak, Baizhang Rock, One Line of Sky, Tianma Rock, volcanic cliffs, Divine Turtle Pointing the Way, Ruiyun Waterfall, and the Mountain Stream Suspension Ropeway. The natural giant Buddha, formed by sediments deposited in the crater, is considered the largest in China. Ruiyun Temple, a thousand-year-old temple nestled within a volcanic cave, is a fusion of Buddhism and Taoism, embodying a sense of wonder and auspiciousness. The Ancient Vine Formation is a unique wonder of Ruiyun Mountain. Millennia-old vines intertwine and form a spectacular circular dragon formation. This area is a third-tier provincial-level scenic spot.
It is recommended to play for 3 hours
168/person
8:00-17:00
Ruiyun Mountain is a historical and cultural landmark in Fujian, known for its ancient temples, lush landscapes, and cultural significance in local folklore. It is also a place for Buddhism and Taoist practices, with temples dating back centuries.
Ruiyun Mountain is located in Sanming, Fujian. You can reach the mountain by taxi or bus from Sanming city center. The closest major transport hub is Sanming Railway Station, from where you can take a bus or taxi to the mountain.
The mountain is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the mountain is covered in vibrant foliage. Weekdays are less crowded compared to weekends.
The entrance fee is around 50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through local travel agencies. Online ticketing may also be available via regional tourism platforms.
Booking in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during peak seasons like Chinese public holidays. Tickets can be booked a few days in advance.
Plan for 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the mountain, including hiking, visiting the temples, and enjoying the scenic views.
The must-see highlights include the temple at the summit, the ancient pagoda, and the panoramic view from the mountain top. The surrounding forests and clear streams are also beautiful areas to explore.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they offer cultural insights into the historical significance of the mountain. Audio guides in English may also be available for a self-guided experience.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the mountain and near the ancient pagoda. The views of the surrounding valleys, forests, and distant peaks make for excellent photography opportunities.
Start by exploring the base of the mountain, then hike to the summit to visit the main temple and pagoda. Take time to enjoy the views from the top and then explore the surrounding forest trails before heading back down.
Night visits and light shows are not available. However, you can enjoy the serene atmosphere of the mountain at sunset or dawn, offering a peaceful and reflective experience.
The mountain can be crowded on weekends and public holidays. For a more peaceful experience, visit on weekdays or during the early morning hours.
Basic facilities such as toilets, water stations, and rest areas are available. There are small local shops offering snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. For more substantial meals, you may need to travel back to the city center.
The mountain trails are suitable for children and elderly visitors, but some areas may require more effort for those with mobility issues. It is recommended to check the accessibility of the trails in advance if you have specific needs.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used and are the most convenient options for transactions in the area.
There are a few small local restaurants offering traditional Fujian cuisine, such as rice noodles and stir-fried vegetables. The nearest cafes or restaurants with more variety are in the city center of Sanming.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, particularly in vegetarian-friendly temples. Halal food options may be limited, but there are some halal eateries in Sanming city.
There are a few guesthouses and mid-range hotels near the base of the mountain. For more upscale accommodations, you can find options in Sanming city, such as hotels and resorts.
Nearby attractions include the Nanping Ancient City and the Tianmen Mountain. These can easily be combined into a day trip if you’re staying in Sanming.
Yes, there are small souvenir shops selling items like local handicrafts, tea, and religious artifacts. Hand-carved wooden figurines and traditional Fujian-style tea sets are popular souvenirs.
After visiting Ruiyun Mountain, taxis or buses are available to take you back to Sanming city. From there, you can catch a train or bus to your next destination. The nearest highway and train station are in Sanming.
