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The most recommended activities at Cape Zhenhai include enjoying the coastal views, exploring the historical Zhenhai Tower, and taking a boat tour of the nearby islands. Visitors can also hike along the cliffs for panoramic views of the East China Sea.
Cape Zhenhai, also known as "Ding Taiwan," is located in Zhenhai Village, Longjiao She Ethnic Township, Longhai City, Zhangzhou City, Fujian Province. It is the junction of the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Because part of the land protrudes outward, it is called Cape Zhenhai by the locals. Although it is close to Xiamen, it has not been overly commercialized and still retains its relatively pristine scenery. You need to cross mountains and ridges and walk along a bumpy dirt road to reach it.
Arriving at Zhenhai Cape, there is a 300-degree sea view in front of you, a meadow full of flowers under your feet, and a red and white lighthouse in the distance... Fresh and poetic, as if you are in a movie. Zhenhai Cape Lighthouse is the biggest scenic spot of Zhenhai Cape. There is a small island with a lighthouse that cannot be navigated on the map. There is no road and it is suitable for cycling.
The transportation is not very convenient, so tourists are advised to drive there by themselves. The scenery along the way will surely make you intoxicated.
Zhangzhou is close to the tropical climate, and the temperature in winter is not very low. The seaside is not as cold as you imagine, so you don’t need a cotton-padded jacket. Just bring a coat. However, you still need to bring a sleeping bag for camping, as it will be cold in the middle of the night.
Zhenhaiwei
Zhenhaiwei, one of the Four Great Guardians of the Ming Dynasty, has survived six hundred years of turbulence, yet its fortress remains majestic and is the best preserved of the four. Four city gates stand majestically, with the South Gate and Water Gate (East Gate) being the most well-preserved, and the South Gate being the most representative. The ancient streets and houses within the village are all built of stone, imbued with a sense of history.
volcanic island
The scenic area consists of "Three Mountains (Xiangshan, Yanloushan and Yulingshishan), Three Islands (Linjinyu, Nandingdao and Zhengmei Peninsula), and Three Bays (Qisha Bay, Jiangkou Bay and Houcai Bay)".
Time: about 1 day
free
Open all day
Cape Zhenhai is known for its historical significance, especially the Zhenhai Tower, which has been a landmark for centuries. The cape is important for its role in the region’s maritime defense and as a gateway for trade during ancient times. It is also an excellent spot for exploring the region’s natural beauty and coastal ecosystem.
Cape Zhenhai is located in Zhangzhou, Fujian, and can be reached by taxi or bus from the city center. The closest major city is Xiamen, from where a 1-2 hour drive is needed. There are no metro services to the cape, but taxis and local buses are the most convenient options.
Cape Zhenhai is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (April to June, September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant for outdoor activities.
The entrance fee for Zhenhai Tower is typically around ¥30–¥50, with additional costs for boat tours. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and online bookings may be available through local tourism websites.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for regular visits, but it is recommended for guided tours or during peak tourist seasons (such as Chinese New Year and summer). It’s best to book at least 1-2 days in advance for tours.
To fully explore Cape Zhenhai, including a visit to the Zhenhai Tower, the scenic spots, and a boat tour, around 3-4 hours is recommended. For a more leisurely visit, you could spend a full day here.
The must-see highlights include the Zhenhai Tower, which offers stunning views of the sea, the surrounding coastal cliffs, and nearby islands. A boat ride around the nearby islands and beaches is also highly recommended.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and occasionally in English during peak seasons. Audio guides in Chinese may also be available for some areas of the site.
For the best views, head to the Zhenhai Tower, which provides a panoramic view of the coastline and surrounding islands. The cliffs and beaches around the cape also offer excellent photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Start with a visit to the Zhenhai Tower, then take a walk along the cliffs to explore the coastal views. Afterward, enjoy a boat ride to the nearby islands before finishing the visit at the local beach for some relaxation.
Night visits are not common at Cape Zhenhai, and there are no light shows. However, during certain festivals, special events or tours may be offered, such as night-time boat rides or cultural performances.
Cape Zhenhai can get crowded during holidays and the summer season. The least crowded times are typically during weekdays outside the peak seasons, particularly in early spring or late autumn.
Basic facilities such as toilets, food vendors, and water stations are available at the entrance and along the trails. There are also small shops selling souvenirs and local snacks near the Zhenhai Tower.
The main areas are accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some of the cliff-side trails may be challenging. It’s best to check for specific accessibility features at the site in advance, as some areas may have uneven paths.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used in the area. Credit cards are less frequently accepted, especially in more remote spots.
There are local restaurants offering Fujian cuisine nearby, especially seafood dishes like fish, shrimp, and clams. Some smaller cafes and snack stalls are available close to the main tourist areas.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially in the local restaurants, though halal food is less common in this region.
There are several hotels near Cape Zhenhai, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Staying in Zhangzhou or Xiamen offers more options for comfortable accommodations.
Nearby attractions include Gulangyu Island in Xiamen, the Nanjing Tulou, and the Xiamen South Putuo Temple. These landmarks are within a few hours' drive and can easily be combined in a day trip.
Souvenir shops near Cape Zhenhai offer traditional Fujian items such as tea, local handicrafts, and seashell products. You can also find typical Chinese souvenirs like keychains and postcards.
From Cape Zhenhai, taxis or buses can take you to nearby cities such as Xiamen or Zhangzhou. From Xiamen, there are multiple transportation options to continue to other parts of Fujian or to catch flights or trains to other regions in China.
