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Dongshan Island, also known as Ling Island and Butterfly Island, is located off the southern coast of Fujian Province, China. It belongs to Dongshan County, Zhangzhou City, Fujian Province, and is the second largest island in the province. It boasts vast bays, gentle beaches, lush trees, and numerous scenic spots, creating a unique southern coastal landscape.
The more famous Wujiao Bay on the island is a specially protected fishing bay known for its natural beauty, while Maluan Bay is famous for its newly developed beach resort.
Subtropical maritime climate;
Spring, summer and autumn are all suitable for sightseeing
Fengdongshi Scenic Area
Located on Dongshan Island, the scenic area is named after the Wind-Moving Stone within it, known as the "World's Most Wonderful Stone," and is the island's iconic landmark. Centered around the Wind-Moving Stone, the scenic area encompasses Tongshan Ancient City, Ta Island, Jiuxian Peak to the west, and Maluan Bay to the south.
Maluan Bay Scenic Area
The crescent-shaped bay offers expansive views. As one of Dongshan's earliest developed scenic spots, it boasts comprehensive facilities. Compared to other areas, the waters are clearer, without the risk of reefs or sharks. The northeast corner is protected by the Three Peaks and Mamiao Mountain, while the southeast corner is protected by four small islets, including Chiyu. The scenic area is characterized by azure blue, white, and green, with faint traces of red walls and green tiles. Due to its exceptional natural beauty and excellent beachfront conditions, it has become a renowned conference center and seaside resort in southern Fujian.
Dongmen Island Scenic Area
Located approximately one kilometer east of the ancient city of Tongshan (Tongling Town) on Dongshan Island, the island covers nearly one square kilometer. It boasts numerous cultural relics and beautiful forests and springs, including the "Yunshan Stone Chamber" and "Yingzui Rock," where Ming Dynasty scholar Huang Daozhou studied as a teenager; Dongming Zen Temple; and stone carvings of famous figures from past dynasties. Other sights include a variety of unusually shaped rocks and boulder formations formed by marine erosion. Renowned for its enchanting scenery, it is considered one of my country's four famous islands, along with Xiamen's Gulangyu, Wenzhou's Jiangxinyu, and Taiwan's Orchid Island.
Recommended play time: 1-2 days
Free access to the island (charges apply for certain scenic spots on the island)
Dongshan Island has a rich cultural and historical heritage, known for its centuries-old temples, traditional fishing villages, and natural beauty. The island is historically significant for its maritime trade, as well as its cultural ties to mainland Fujian. It remains a serene getaway with strong local traditions and a tranquil lifestyle.
Dongshan Island is located in the southern part of Fujian province, within Zhangzhou City. It can be reached by ferry from the mainland, and taxis or buses are available from the ferry terminal. There are no metro services on the island.
Most attractions are open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, avoiding the hot summer months or the peak tourist seasons around major Chinese holidays.
Entrance fees for attractions such as the temples and scenic parks typically range from ¥20 to ¥50. Tickets can be purchased on-site, though some attractions may offer online booking during peak seasons.
For most sites, booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but for popular spots or during peak seasons, it is recommended to book 1-2 days in advance to ensure availability.
A full exploration of Dongshan Island, including key attractions and scenic spots, will typically require 1 to 2 days depending on your interests.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some attractions may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides may also be available for major tourist sites in Mandarin.
Start with a visit to Dongshan Temple, then enjoy a scenic walk along the coastline or through the natural parks. In the afternoon, explore the local villages and indulge in the island’s famous seafood cuisine.
Night visits and light shows are not common on Dongshan Island. However, certain cultural events or festivals may offer unique evening activities, so it’s worth checking the local schedule during your visit.
Dongshan Island is not usually very crowded. The least crowded times are weekdays and non-holiday periods. Visiting during the off-season, such as late autumn or early spring, ensures a more peaceful experience.
Basic facilities such as public toilets, rest areas, and water stations are available at most tourist sites. There are local food stalls and restaurants offering fresh seafood, and small shops sell souvenirs and local products.
The main attractions on Dongshan Island are accessible for elderly and children, but some natural areas and hiking routes may be difficult for those with limited mobility. It is best to check the accessibility of specific sites beforehand.
While cash is still accepted in many places, mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used across the island. Credit cards are not as commonly accepted, so it’s recommended to carry cash or use mobile payment apps.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, though most dishes on the island feature seafood. Halal options may be more limited, but vegetarian and some local Chinese restaurants offer suitable dishes.
Souvenir shops on Dongshan Island sell local products such as seashell crafts, Fujian tea, and traditional handicrafts. The island is also known for its dried seafood products.
To continue your journey, take a ferry back to the mainland, then taxis or buses are available to reach Zhangzhou city or Xiamen. From there, you can access further transportation options like trains or buses for longer distances.
