Live Your Best Lives
Visit Shiweiyan for its scenic beauty and historical significance. The main activities include hiking to view the dramatic rock formations, exploring the caves, and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Photography, nature walks, and relaxation by the streams are popular here.
Shiweiyan Scenic Area is located in the northeast of Nanxi River Scenic Area, adjacent to Beiyandang Mountain in the east, with a total area of 86 square kilometers.
Shiwei Rock is located in Hesheng Town, northeast of Yantou, and is one of the most unmissable attractions in Nanxi River.
Millions of years ago, volcanic activity left behind a solitary peak, 306 meters high. Its mast-like shape proudly overlooks the surrounding peaks, and the reddish rock takes on different shapes at different angles. Visitors can enjoy the scenery by boat or walk along the mountainside plank road, immersing themselves in the lush green mountains and clear waters.
Wenzhou has a mid-subtropical monsoon climate zone, with significant alternation between winter and summer monsoons, moderate temperatures, distinct four seasons, and abundant rainfall.
All seasons are suitable for visiting, but spring and autumn are the best.
2-3 hours is appropriate
50 yuan/person
8:00-17:00
Shiweiyan is known for its fascinating geological formations and natural beauty. It has historical importance as it was a strategic location during various Chinese dynasties. The area is also significant for its spiritual and cultural ties, particularly with Buddhism, as several temples and shrines are found within the landscape.
Shiweiyan is located in Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province. It can be reached by taxi from the city center of Wenzhou or by taking a local bus to the nearest station. It's also possible to walk to certain parts of the park, especially if staying nearby.
Shiweiyan is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are most beautiful. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
The entrance fee is approximately 50 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. During peak seasons, online booking through local platforms may be available to avoid long lines.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but recommended during peak tourist seasons or holidays. You can book a few days in advance through various local travel platforms.
A visit to Shiweiyan usually takes around 2 to 3 hours to fully explore, especially if you plan to hike and enjoy the natural scenery. For those interested in photography or exploring caves, more time might be needed.
The must-see highlights include the unique rock formations, the caves, and the ancient shrines scattered across the area. The panoramic viewpoints offer great opportunities for landscape photography. There is also a scenic trail for those who enjoy hiking.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may also be available in Mandarin. It’s advisable to check with the local tourism office to confirm the availability of guides in other languages like English.
The best viewpoints are at the top of the hiking trail, offering sweeping views of the surrounding forest and rock formations. The caves and streams provide unique photo opportunities, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft.
Start your visit by walking along the main trail that leads to the rock formations. After exploring the caves and temples, head towards the viewpoint for the best scenic views. For those with more time, consider hiking to explore the more remote areas of the park.
There are no night visits or light shows available at Shiweiyan. The attraction is best enjoyed during the day when the natural beauty is fully visible. Nighttime activities are not common in the area.
The site can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, or during the off-peak season, such as late autumn and winter.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets and rest areas. There are small food vendors near the entrance and along the main trails. Water and snacks are available for purchase. It’s advisable to bring your own water and snacks for a longer visit.
The main trails are relatively easy for children and elderly visitors to navigate. However, the terrain can be uneven in some areas, especially near the caves and viewpoints. Disabled access may be limited in certain parts of the park.
Cash is still accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in the area. It’s a good idea to have mobile payment apps set up for convenience.
There are small local eateries and food stalls near the entrance to Shiweiyan, offering local Zhejiang cuisine. For more dining options, you can head back to Wenzhou city, where a variety of restaurants and cafes are available.
Vegetarian options are available in the local food stalls. However, vegan and halal food options are more limited, so it's best to find them in Wenzhou city, which has a wider variety of restaurants catering to these preferences.
For accommodation, you will find a variety of hotels in Wenzhou city, which is about 30-40 minutes away from Shiweiyan. There are also guesthouses near the attraction for those who prefer staying closer to nature.
Nearby attractions include Yandang Mountain, which is famous for its geological wonders, and the scenic Nanji Island. These can easily be combined with a trip to Shiweiyan for a full day of exploration.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance selling local crafts, including handmade trinkets, artwork, and postcards. Typical souvenirs include carved stone items, traditional Chinese crafts, and local snacks.
After visiting Shiweiyan, taxis are the most convenient way to continue your trip to nearby attractions or Wenzhou city. Local buses are also available, but taxis provide more flexibility and comfort.
