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Located in Nantong Town, Minhou County, south of Fuzhou City, Shiba Chongxi River boasts a natural landscape formed on a volcanic rock foundation, with canyon waterfalls and unusual peaks and rocks as its main attractions. During the Ming Dynasty, Shiba Chongxi River's landscape became famous in the Fuzhou area.
The landscape of the Eighteen Creeks in the Ming Dynasty is well-known in Fuzhou. The ten ancient scenic spots, including Tianyi Rock, Yunwan Ferry, Yueshan Cliff, Ande Spring, Zangong House, Biyutan, Luojing Bridge, Xiaotiantai, Panlong Stone and Douyun Temple, once attracted scholars and poets to linger there, leaving behind many poems praising it.
The scenic area's unique volcanic rock formations, pristine seasonal rivers, and wild macaques are its three main features. It offers a haven for people to return to nature, appreciate the tranquility of lush green mountains, clear waters, chirping birds, and fragrant flowers. Within the scenic area lies Guling Mountain, home to numerous towering peaks, such as Wenbi Peak , also known as Guling Ximao Mountain , which resembles a giant brush, piercing the clouds and reaching for the heavens.
Suitable for all seasons, best for escaping the heat in summer
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
20 yuan/person
8:00-17:00
The Eighteen-level Stream is a natural scenic area located in Fuzhou, Fujian. It is known for its series of beautiful waterfalls, clear waters, and lush surroundings. The name comes from the eighteen distinct levels of waterfalls that cascade down the mountainside, offering an incredibly picturesque scene. The area is popular among locals and tourists for hiking, photography, and nature exploration.
The Eighteen-level Stream is located in the outskirts of Fuzhou, in the mountainous areas of Fujian. It can be accessed by taking a taxi or private car from downtown Fuzhou. Public transportation options, such as buses, are also available, but may require some walking to reach the stream itself. Walking to the site from nearby villages or areas can be an option for adventurous visitors.
The site is open year-round, with the best times to visit being during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. The park is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. Avoid visiting during heavy rainy seasons, as the streams may be swollen and access may be restricted.
The entrance fee to the Eighteen-level Stream is generally around 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the entrance or through local ticketing services. It is not commonly available for online booking, but tickets can be bought at the park entrance.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary unless visiting during peak seasons or public holidays. If you plan to visit during these times, it’s advisable to book at least 1-2 days in advance to avoid long waits.
Exploring the Eighteen-level Stream generally takes around 3-5 hours, depending on your pace and the activities you choose to do. Hiking and taking in the scenery could take more time if you plan to explore the entire area.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and can be arranged on-site. Audio guides may also be available for a small fee. It's best to check with the entrance staff for availability, especially for foreign-language guides.
The best photography spots are near the waterfalls, where the cascading water creates stunning backdrops. The viewpoint at the top of the stream offers sweeping views of the entire area, ideal for panoramic photos. The surrounding forest paths also provide excellent opportunities for nature photography.
Start with a hike to the upper levels of the waterfalls, taking your time to enjoy the natural beauty. Afterward, explore the lower levels and enjoy the serene pools. Make sure to stop at the viewpoints for photos, and end with a relaxing time by the water or a meal at the nearby food stalls.
Currently, the Eighteen-level Stream does not offer night visits or light shows. It is best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the waterfalls and streams.
The site can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the summer. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays during the off-season (spring and autumn) or early mornings.
The site has public toilets, rest areas, and food stalls offering snacks and local dishes. There are no large shops, but small souvenir stands may be available near the entrance. It is recommended to bring your own water and snacks if you plan on hiking for extended periods.
The Eighteen-level Stream is a natural site with uneven terrain and steep paths, which may be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. However, children can enjoy the area, especially near the lower levels where the terrain is less rugged.
Cash is commonly used for small purchases, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also accepted at food stalls and the entrance ticketing area.
Vegetarian food options are available in the food stalls near the entrance, but vegan and halal options may be limited. It’s advisable to check with the vendors for availability.
There are small souvenir stands at the entrance selling local crafts, nature-themed souvenirs, and traditional Fujian handicrafts.
The best options for continuing your trip are taxis or private cars, which are readily available near the entrance. Public buses also connect the area to Fuzhou city center for further travel.
