
Zhangzhou Coastal Volcano National Geopark is located in the coastal areas of Zhangpu and Longhai counties in Zhangzhou, Fujian Province. The scenic area has an 18- kilometer coastline and features volcanic landforms as its primary geological features. In March 2000 , the Ministry of Land and Resources awarded the Zhangzhou Coastal Volcano National Geopark designation.
The Zhangzhou Coastal Volcanic Geological Park features the Longjiao Ancient Crater in Longhai City as its main attraction. It is one of the few intact elliptical submarine ancient craters in the world, hidden at high tide and visible at low tide. Geological experts believe that the crater has experienced at least three major eruptions.
The crater is surrounded by gray, dark purple, and purple-gray basalts of varying shapes. The eruption sequence is clear, and the crater is typical and well-preserved. It features rare rootless fumaroles and stoichiometric columns; a columnar joint complex composed of 1.4 million giant hexagonal basalt columns , a veritable "undersea terracotta warriors"; sea-eroded lava tubes, numerous high-quality beaches, and charred wood layers from ancient forests. This is an extremely valuable volcanic geological relic, of great scientific value to the study of the development history of the Western Pacific volcanic belt.
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
80 yuan/person
8 : 00-18 : 00
Zhangzhou Binhai Volcano National Geopark is significant for its well-preserved volcanic landscapes and geological formations, including lava fields, volcanic cones, and coastal cliffs. The park provides insights into the volcanic activity in Fujian province millions of years ago and is an important site for geoscience education and eco-tourism.
The geopark is located in Zhangzhou, Fujian Province, China. Visitors can reach it by taxi or private car from Zhangzhou city center, or by taking local buses heading towards Binhai Coastal areas. The closest major transport hub is Xiamen, from where buses or taxis can take about 1–1.5 hours to the park.
The park is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are spring and autumn (March–May, September–November) to avoid the summer heat and typhoon season.
The entrance fee is around 60 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site or via online booking platforms such as Trip.com.
It is recommended to book tickets a few days in advance during weekends or holidays. For regular weekdays, tickets can often be purchased on-site.
A full visit typically requires 2–4 hours, depending on whether you also hike trails or take photographs extensively.
Guided tours are available, usually conducted in Chinese. Audio guides may not be standard, so it's advisable to inquire locally.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available. Special guided tours may be arranged upon request during the daytime.
The park is less crowded during weekdays and outside of public holidays. Mornings on weekdays offer the quietest experience.
Basic facilities include toilets, rest areas, and a small snack shop near the visitor center. There are limited restaurants inside the park.
Some areas with paved paths are accessible, but hiking to certain craters may involve uneven terrain. Elderly or disabled visitors should check accessibility for specific trails.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted at the park and nearby facilities.
Local restaurants near the geopark serve Fujian cuisine, including seafood and traditional snacks. Small cafes may also be found near the park entrance.
Vegetarian options are available in most local restaurants. Halal options are limited, so planning ahead is recommended.
Souvenir shops sell local handicrafts, volcanic rock souvenirs, snacks, and Fujian-themed items.
Taxis and buses are available to return to Zhangzhou city or head towards Xiamen for further travel. Private cars provide the most flexibility for exploring surrounding areas.