Xiawei Island: The Hidden "Sea Arch" of Xiapu, A Magical Moment of Sunrise and Rocks

**Xiawei Island – The Natural Photography Studio of Xiapu's "Guilin on the Sea," A Labyrinth of Rocks and Sunrise Secrets**

**Xiawei Island** is located in **Changchun Town, Xiapu County, Ningde City, Fujian Province**, a small peninsula at the **eastern tip of Xiapu's Dongchong Peninsula**. Known for its **unique rock formations, sea-eroded caves, and breathtaking sunrises**, it has become a **"Gem of Xiapu"** in the hearts of photography enthusiasts. Though small in size, it encapsulates **marvels of sea erosion and the art of light and shadow**, making it a popular destination for **short trips, photography, and beachcombing experiences**.

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## **🌊 Must-Visit Highlights of Xiawei Island**

### **1. Sea-Eroded Cave Wonders – Natural Arches and Light Play**
- **Iconic Sea-Eroded Cave**:
- A natural arch-shaped cave revealed at low tide, resembling an elephant's trunk. At sunrise, light pierces through the rock walls, creating a golden halo (**Best shooting time: Summer mornings, 5:30–6:30 AM**).
- **Note**: Tides change rapidly—check tide tables in advance to avoid being stranded.
- **Rock Labyrinth**:
- Volcanic rocks eroded by seawater form a maze of uniquely shaped formations, perfect for climbing and exploration (wear anti-slip shoes).

### **2. Sunrise and Sunset – Xiapu's Premier Viewing Spots**
- **Sunrise Location**:
- East of the sea-eroded cave, where the sun rises over the horizon, casting golden edges on the rocks and waves.
- **Sunset Spot**:
- The rocky beach on the west side of the peninsula, where the evening glow paints the sea red, ideal for silhouette photography.

### **3. Lüxia Pier and Nearby Attractions**
- **Lüxia Lighthouse**:
- 2 km from Xiawei Island, this red-and-white lighthouse paired with cliffside coasts creates a cinematic scene, perfect for drone shots.
- **Dajing Beach**:
- Xiapu's longest sandy beach (3 km), with fine sand—great for combining with Xiawei Island for a day trip.

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## **🚗 Transportation Guide**
- **Self-Drive**:
- Navigate to **Xiawei Island, Xiapu**. About 2.5 hours from Fuzhou, 4 hours from Xiamen.
- **Parking**: Free parking at the village entrance, a 10-minute walk to the shore.
- **Public Transport**:
- Take a bus from Xiapu Railway Station to **Changchun Town**, then transfer by motorbike or shared taxi to Xiawei Island (~¥20/person).

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## **🏡 Accommodation Recommendations**
- **Xiapu County**:
- Luxury option: Xiapu Royal View International Hotel (convenient, close to the railway station).
- Budget-friendly: Local homestays (e.g., "Xiapu Pusu," ~¥200/night).
- **Seaside Homestays**:
- Changchun Town’s **"Shijianhai"** or **"Caomuren"**, offering views of fishing rafts, 15-minute drive to Xiawei Island.

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## **🦀 Food Guide**
- **Must-Try in Xiapu**:
- **Razor Clams**: Prepared with scallion oil or salt-baked, plump and flavorful (try "Xinmeiweiyuan Seafood Restaurant").
- **Seaweed Sprouts**: Served cold or in soup, fresh and crisp.
- **Minnan Paste**: A thick stew made with sweet potato starch and seafood.
- **Fishing Village Eateries**:
- Local fishermen’s stalls at the village entrance (~¥50/person, fresh catch).

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## **📌 Travel Tips**
- **Best Season**: May–October (early sunrise, clear waters); avoid July–August typhoon season.
- **Tide Check**: Follow "China Maritime Service Network" or local fishermen’s advice for safety.
- **Photography Gear**: Wide-angle lens for caves, tripod essential for long exposures.
- **Precautions**:
- Rocks are slippery and sharp—wear anti-slip shoes and gloves.
- No commercial facilities—bring water and snacks.
- Protect the environment—no littering or damaging rocks.

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## **✨ Xiawei Island vs. Other Xiapu Attractions?**
- **Compared to Beqi Mudflats**: Xiawei Island excels in rocks and sunrise, while Beqi focuses on mudflat lightscapes and fishing scenes.
- **Compared to Sishang Islands**: Xiawei Island is more accessible for day trips; Sishang Islands require boat rides and are wilder.