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Ba Chi Men, located at the northern end of Dongshan County (Dongshan Island) in Zhangzhou City, Fujian Province, was once an ancient ferry crossing, the gateway connecting Dongshan Island to the mainland and a crucial pass for military strategists throughout history. In 1664, during the third year of the reign of Emperor Kangxi (1664 AD), the Qing government, seeking to sever ties between the Dongshan Islanders and the anti-Qing general Zheng Chenggong, built an eight-foot-high boundary wall and artillery fort at the ferry crossing and stationed troops there. Chen Ping Ferry was subsequently renamed "Ba Chi Men."
In 1960, the government built a seawall here, connecting Dongshan to the mainland and forming a peninsula. In 1973, 57 Xiangdongqu aqueduct piers were added to the Bashimen seawall, bringing fresh water to the island. This created a unique inland sea, as calm as a mirror. Numerous seafood farms are cultivated here, necessitating the deployment of seine nets. Dozens of large yellow and green seine nets crisscross the sea, forming a spectacular offshore fish farm. The sky and clouds are reflected in the water, and the fishing boats roaming within create a tranquil yet vivid ink painting.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
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It is recommended to play for 1 to 2 hours
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All day
The Eight-foot Gate is a historic structure in Zhangzhou, Fujian, known for its traditional architectural style and cultural significance. It was once part of a larger defense system built during the Ming Dynasty to protect the city. The gate is a symbol of local history and stands as a testament to the region's architectural heritage and the defensive measures taken by the city during that era.
The Eight-foot Gate is located in the city of Zhangzhou, Fujian. You can reach it by taxi or bus from the main city center. Public transportation options like buses are available, and the gate is within walking distance from nearby local landmarks and attractions.
The Eight-foot Gate is typically open for visits throughout the day, with the best time to visit being early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. It is recommended to visit during weekdays, especially in the cooler months, for a more peaceful experience.
The entrance to the Eight-foot Gate is free of charge, as it is a public historical landmark. No tickets are required for entry.
No advance booking is necessary as the site is open to the public and free to visit. Just arrive at your convenience.
A visit to the Eight-foot Gate typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, allowing enough time to appreciate its architecture, take photos, and explore the surrounding area.
The primary highlight is the gate itself, which showcases traditional Fujian architecture with its intricate carvings and large stone structure. The surrounding area, offering views of the city and the historical context of the site, is also worth exploring.
Currently, there are no guided tours or audio guides available at the Eight-foot Gate. However, local guides may be available upon request for those looking to learn more about the history of the site.
The best photography spot is from the front of the gate, capturing its full height and intricate carvings. You can also take photos from the surrounding areas that provide a panoramic view of the gate and the nearby landscape.
Start by exploring the gate itself and take a walk around the structure. Afterward, enjoy the local area for a more immersive experience of the historical surroundings.
There are no night visits, light shows, or special tours at the Eight-foot Gate. It is best visited during daylight hours.
The site is usually not crowded, except during local festivals or holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
There are no major facilities like food stalls or rest areas near the Eight-foot Gate. Visitors should bring their own water and snacks. Restrooms are typically available in nearby public areas or parks.
The attraction is accessible for elderly visitors and children, though the terrain around the gate may be uneven. Disabled access might be challenging due to the historical nature of the site.
Since the Eight-foot Gate is free to visit, no payments are needed. However, for any local purchases nearby, cash or mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are commonly accepted.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the site. However, several local restaurants serving Fujian cuisine can be found nearby. Look for spots offering local specialties like "Shacha" noodles and seafood dishes.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at local restaurants. Halal food options may be limited in the area, but certain Chinese restaurants catering to Muslim visitors may have halal offerings.
There are several hotels in Zhangzhou that offer convenient access to the Eight-foot Gate, ranging from budget accommodations to more upscale options. The most popular hotels are typically located in the city center.
Souvenir shops are not directly available at the Eight-foot Gate, but you can find local handicrafts and traditional Fujian-style souvenirs in nearby markets and shops.
After visiting the Eight-foot Gate, taxis or local buses are the best options to continue your trip. Zhangzhou also has a well-connected public transportation system for further exploration of the city or nearby attractions.
