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Visit the unique geological formations of the Three-plate Tail, take scenic walks around the surrounding area, and explore the local villages nearby to experience traditional Zhejiang culture. Photography enthusiasts will enjoy the panoramic views of the coastline.
Sanpanwei is located in the southern part of Nanji Islands, Pingyang County, Wenzhou City. It is famous for its shape which resembles three plates floating on the sea. It is the best place to watch the sunrise on Nanji Island.
On the Sanpanwei Mountain, the slopes between the two peaks slope towards the middle, forming a large area of about five acres, covered with soft and green grass, like a green carpet.
On the way there, you can visit attractions such as Monkeys Worshipping Guanyin, Natural Lawn, Chaoyin Cave, Feilai Stone, and Fengdong Rock along the ridge. On the way back, you can take the coastal path to get a close look at the blue sea, huge rocks, forts, and fishing villages.
June to September is the best time to visit Nanji Island. With warm winters and cool summers, the island boasts an average annual temperature of 16.5°C, making it a popular summer resort. June to September is the peak tourist season, with July and August being particularly busy. Summer nights on Nanji Island are characterized by strong sea breezes and a refreshing coolness, making it an ideal summer escape.
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Three-plate Tail is a natural rock formation that has been shaped by centuries of erosion, creating a distinctive landscape. It holds cultural significance as it is part of the rich natural heritage of Zhejiang Province, and is a popular spot for hiking and sightseeing.
Located in Wenzhou, Zhejiang, Three-plate Tail is best accessed by taxi or private car from the city center. There is no metro access, but the area is well-connected by local buses, with walking trails leading up to the site.
The site is open year-round, with the best times to visit being during spring and autumn when the weather is mild. Early morning visits help avoid crowds, and sunset is a beautiful time for photography.
The entrance fee is modest, typically paid on-site. Tickets can also be purchased online through local travel platforms, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking in advance is generally not required, except during peak travel seasons. If visiting during busy times, it’s a good idea to book tickets at least a couple of days ahead.
To fully explore the Three-plate Tail, you will need approximately 2 to 3 hours, including time for hiking and taking photos.
The Three-plate Tail rock formations themselves are the main highlight, along with panoramic viewpoints that offer spectacular views of the surrounding coastline and the nearby villages.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and during peak times, some English-speaking guides may be available. Audio guides are not common in this area.
The best photography spots are at the top of the rock formations and along the hiking trails, where you can capture sweeping views of the coastline and the rugged landscape.
Start by exploring the main rock formations, then follow the trail along the cliff for a more scenic experience. End your visit at the panoramic viewpoint for the best photo opportunities.
There are no night visits or light shows available at Three-plate Tail, but evening visits provide a peaceful atmosphere and great sunset views.
The area can get crowded on weekends and during holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays, especially outside of summer and the Chinese New Year period.
Basic facilities, such as public toilets and small rest areas, are available. Local food vendors may offer refreshments, but there are no large restaurants or shops near the site.
The site may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain and hiking trails. However, children will enjoy the exploration of the rocks and surrounding nature.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used, making transactions more convenient. Credit cards may not be accepted in smaller shops.
There are no large restaurants near Three-plate Tail, but small local eateries and snack shops serve traditional Zhejiang food in the surrounding areas.
Vegetarian options are available at local eateries offering Zhejiang cuisine. Halal food options may be found in larger cities like Wenzhou but are not common around the attraction.
There are several budget hotels and guesthouses in Wenzhou, which is about an hour’s drive from the site. For a more scenic experience, consider staying in local homestays or guesthouses near the attraction.
Nearby attractions include the Nanxi River, Wenzhou’s cultural sites, and the Yandang Mountains. These can easily be combined for a scenic and cultural day trip.
Small souvenir shops in the nearby villages sell local crafts, including hand-carved wooden items, Zhejiang tea, and traditional snacks.
Taxis or local buses can take you back to Wenzhou. From there, you can continue your trip by train, bus, or car to other destinations in Zhejiang.
