Live Your Best Lives
Explore the picturesque villages of the Eighteen Villages, known for their traditional architecture and lush natural surroundings. Enjoy hiking and photography along the scenic mountain paths. Discover the rich culture and history of the local communities.
Shibazhai is located 5 kilometers northwest of Sanming Castanopsis carlesii National Forest Park, a national 4A-level tourist area. Yanqian has been known as "Shibazhai in front and Shibakeng in the back" since ancient times. Zhongshan was originally called Shibazhai (Central Village), but was renamed during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty. Its earliest pioneers were people with the surnames Deng, Luo, and Cao, and the area dates back over a thousand years. Shibazhai has a long history, prospering since the Huichang period of the Tang Dynasty. Funds were raised to build Yongxing Temple, walls and city gates were constructed in the Yuan Dynasty, and bridges, roads, and water conservancy projects were built in the Ming Dynasty. By the Shunzhi period of the Qing Dynasty, ten surnames and thirteen men had settled here, with over 400 households.
Zhongshan Folk Village is located in Yanqian Town, 5 kilometers northwest of the Castanopsis carlesii scenic area of Sanyuan District National Forest Park. This millennia-old rural town boasts well-preserved ancient architecture and local customs. Its lush greenery has earned it a spot among the "Top Ten Most Beautiful Villages in Fujian." Eighteen Villages boasts a rich history and a simple, ancient style. Legend has it that the village was once composed of 18 villages, large and small, hence the ancient name Eighteen Villages. With a history spanning over 1,000 years, the village boasts over 20 well-preserved ancient buildings from the Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, and the local people continue to enjoy a wealth of traditional customs steeped in cultural heritage.
The village's ancient buildings nestle amidst the sparse shadows of green mountains and trees, interspersed among ordinary rural dwellings with blue tiles and white walls, surrounded by streams, rice paddies, and bamboo forests. Brick carvings, stone carvings, plaques, and couplets, though worn and aging, remain exquisitely crafted. A variety of old houses, many well-preserved, date from the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties: the Four Sages Temple, the Zhuang Clan Ancestral Hall, the Chu Three Lords Temple, the Yang Clan Three Lords Temple, the Chen Clan Ancestral House, Wan'an Bridge, Wenchang Pavilion... Approaching gently, one can even smell the subtle, damp yet slightly sweet aroma of decaying wood. Every brick and every scrap of rubble holds onto the unique memories of this ancient village.
The subtropical monsoon climate is suitable for all seasons.
Mongolian tombs, shrines of sages, shrines of the three dukes of Chu, etc.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
60 yuan/person
09:00-17:00
The Eighteen Villages are a collection of ancient settlements in Fujian, where traditional culture and natural beauty blend together. These villages are significant for preserving the region's cultural heritage and offer a glimpse into traditional rural life in China.
The Eighteen Villages are located in the Sanming area of Fujian. The easiest way to get there is by taking a bus or taxi from Sanming city. It is also possible to reach the site by private car or by hiking through scenic routes.
The Eighteen Villages are open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn months when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful.
There is a small entrance fee to visit the villages, typically paid on-site. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through local travel agencies.
Booking in advance is not required unless you are visiting during a busy tourist season or joining a guided tour. It is recommended to check availability for tours during peak times.
You will need about 2 to 4 hours to fully explore the Eighteen Villages, depending on how much time you spend hiking and taking in the scenic views.
Key highlights include the ancient architecture, the traditional farming practices, and the scenic mountain views. Don’t miss the traditional stone houses and the picturesque streets that capture the essence of rural life.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides in different languages may also be available, though it is best to inquire ahead of time.
The best viewpoints are at the higher elevations of the villages, where you can get panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and terraced fields. The traditional architecture set against the backdrop of the mountains is also a great photography opportunity.
Start with a visit to the main village center, then explore the surrounding villages by walking along the designated paths. Take time to stop at the viewpoints for photographs and to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Night visits are not available. However, special tours may be organized during festival times, providing insight into local customs and traditions.
The Eighteen Villages can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are during weekdays, especially in the morning and outside of national holidays.
Basic facilities, including restrooms and water stations, are available. There are also small shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs. Some restaurants offer traditional Fujian cuisine.
The terrain can be hilly, so it may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. However, the main village area is relatively accessible for children and elderly visitors, especially those who prefer not to hike.
Cash is widely accepted, though mobile payment systems like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also commonly used in the area. Credit cards may not be accepted in some smaller shops.
Local restaurants serve traditional Fujian dishes, such as rice noodles and seafood. Small cafes and tea houses can be found in the area, offering a relaxing place to enjoy the surroundings.
Vegetarian food options are available at most local restaurants. However, halal options may be limited in this rural area.
There are several guesthouses and small hotels near the villages, offering basic amenities. For more luxury accommodations, you may need to travel to Sanming city.
Nearby attractions include the Wuyi Mountains, known for their stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. A visit to the ancient city of Sanming is also a great addition to your trip.
Souvenir shops sell local crafts, including handwoven textiles, pottery, and wooden carvings. Traditional Fujian tea is also a popular item for visitors to bring home.
After visiting the Eighteen Villages, taxis or local buses are available to continue your trip. For longer journeys, you can return to Sanming city and take a bus or train to other destinations.
