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Sha County is located in the north-central part of Fujian Province and belongs to Sanming City, Fujian Province. Since ancient times, it has been an important commodity distribution center in northwestern Fujian, with many merchants gathering here. It is known as the "Golden Sha County".
Shaxian County is well-known for its nationally renowned Shaxian snacks. In fact, in addition to its diverse cuisine, Shaxian County boasts numerous scenic spots and historical sites, including Dingguang Buddha, China's largest reclining Buddha carved into a mountainside; Xingguo Temple from the Tang Dynasty; the ancestral hall of Song Dynasty Neo-Confucianist Luo Congyan; the Seven Mountain Strongholds of Deng Mao, leader of the Ming Dynasty uprising; and the City God Temple from the Qing Dynasty. Natural attractions include Gold Rush Mountain, Seven Immortals Cave, Songbai Rock, Ten Miles of Flat Flowing Water, Seven Peaks of Greenery, and the Lvfeng Mountain Scenic Area.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended 2-day tour
Gold Rush
Gold Rush Mountain, located three kilometers west of Sha County, earned its name from the ancient practice of panning for gold in the stream below. The scenic area boasts attractions such as China's first reclining Buddha and the Foguang Relic Pagoda. The Dingguang Reclining Buddha, measuring 38 meters long, 10 meters wide, and 11 meters high, is currently the largest stone reclining Buddha in China. Behind the Buddha, nestled in the mountains, stands a massive, approximately 4 kilometers long green reclining Buddha, creating a seamless connection between the mountain and the Buddha.
Sanming Seven Immortals Cave
Qixian Cave is located at the foot of Dayou Mountain in Fukou Town, Sha County, Fujian Province, 19 kilometers from the county seat. Named after the legend that seven fairies descended to earth here, the maze-like caverns are divided into upper, middle, and lower chambers, representing a typical karst landform.
Dayou Mountain
Dayou Mountain Scenic Area is located at the junction of Fukou Town, Sha County and Chenda Town, Sanming City. It is a place where rare volcanic landforms coexist with Kashi landforms. In the scenic area, there are solitary peaks, strange rocks, towering ancient trees, waterfalls, gurgling streams, and the pleasant sounds of cicadas and birds.
Shaxian County, located in Fujian Province, is famous for its historical significance and unique culinary culture. Known as the birthplace of the famous "Shaxian snacks," the county has a rich cultural heritage influenced by both Han and local ethnic minorities. It is also a hub for agriculture, especially for its production of tea, fruits, and other natural resources.
Shaxian County is located in the Sanming City area of Fujian Province. It can be reached by taking a bus or taxi from Sanming or the nearby cities. The nearest major transportation hub is Sanming Railway Station, from which buses and taxis are available. There are no metro services in Shaxian, so road transport is the most practical way to travel there.
Most attractions in Shaxian are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) months, when the weather is pleasant and the natural surroundings are at their best. Avoid the summer peak season if you prefer fewer crowds.
The entrance fees for most attractions in Shaxian are modest, typically ranging from 30 to 80 RMB depending on the site. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or through local tourism websites. Some attractions may offer online discounts.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for most attractions, but it is advisable to book tickets for popular events or during peak seasons 1-2 days ahead of your visit.
To fully explore Shaxian County and experience its highlights, including natural attractions, museums, and cultural sites, a full day is recommended. For those interested in local cuisine or hiking, an additional day may be worthwhile.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may offer services in English for international visitors. Audio guides are typically available in Mandarin, and it is advisable to check availability for other languages beforehand.
Start your day by visiting the Shaxian Snack Street for a taste of local cuisine. Then, explore the county’s historical and cultural sites, including the Shaxian County Museum. After lunch, take a hike in the nearby mountains or explore the old streets. End your day with a visit to the temples and other cultural landmarks.
Night visits are not common, but some local festivals and cultural performances may take place in the evening, particularly during holidays. It is advisable to check local event schedules for any special evening tours or light shows.
Shaxian can be crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the summer months. The least crowded times are on weekdays, particularly during the off-peak seasons in the spring and autumn.
Basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and rest areas are available throughout the county, particularly around tourist attractions. There are also shops selling local products and souvenirs.
Shaxian County is generally accessible, but some natural areas and hiking trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. The county’s main streets and attractions are easily navigable for children and elderly tourists.
While cash is accepted, mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used in Shaxian. Some shops and restaurants may accept credit cards, but it’s a good idea to carry cash for smaller transactions.
Vegetarian options are available in Shaxian, particularly in restaurants serving local dishes. Halal food options may be limited, and it’s advisable to check with the restaurant before dining.
Souvenir shops in Shaxian offer local handicrafts, including embroidery, traditional pottery, and tea products. Local snacks, such as Shaxian noodles, can also be bought as souvenirs.
