Fujian’s version of “Zelda” secret realm! The ultimate travel guide to the Sili Islands

It feels like stepping into the land of Hyrule—this East China Sea secret realm is breathtakingly beautiful!

The Sili Islands are located in the southeast of Xiapu County, Ningde, Fujian. Composed of 18 islands and 17 reefs, they are known as the “real-life Zelda” and are one of the “Top Ten Hidden Islands in China” recommended by China National Geographic. Here you’ll find natural landscapes such as cliffs, lawns, pebble beaches, and flocks of seagulls. The best time to visit is from March to October.

📍 How to Get There

Major Transportation

· High-speed train: Take a high-speed train to Xiapu Station from various locations
· Airplane: Fly to Fuzhou Changle International Airport or Wenzhou Longwan International Airport, then transfer to a high-speed train to Xiapu

Ways to Get to the Islands

1. Passenger Ferry (Economical)
· Pier: Jishi Pier
· Fare: 100 RMB per person one way
· Duration: About 1.5-2 hours
· Schedule: Limited, check in advance
2. Speedboat (Recommended! More flexible)
· Pier: Dongbi Pier or Haiwei Pier
· Fare: 180-400 RMB per person; private boat around 400 RMB per person (round trip same day)
· Duration: About 30 minutes to reach Dongli Island
· Advantage: Direct island hopping with a guide

🏝️ Island Activities Introduction

Dongli Island – The “Zelda” Main Scene

· Features: 90-degree vertical cliffs, crescent-shaped island, lush green lawns
· Photo spots: Lion Peak, Emperor’s Hat (great for aerial shots)
· Best time: 3-5 PM for the softest light
· Activities: Hike to the top for a panoramic view of the island

Hongli Island (Bird Island) – Seagull Kingdom

· Features: Siberian terns flock here from May to August, spectacular to see
· Experience: Bring bread crumbs to interact with the seabirds
· Photography: Use wide-angle or telephoto lenses, keep at least 2 meters from the cliffs

Nanli Island – Pebble Secret Realm

· Features: Unique pebble beach with stones up to 1 meter thick
· Experience: Collect heart-shaped pebbles to stack and make wishes, explore reef flats at low tide
· Note: Pebble beach is slippery, wear non-slip shoes

Beili Island – Main Island Living Area

· Features: The only inhabited island, rich fishing village atmosphere
· Experience: Watch fishing boats set out, enjoy sunset from the hilltop, experience islander life
· Accommodation: Main area for lodging and dining

🏡 Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some popular guesthouses on the islands:

Guesthouse Name | Features | Approximate Price
---|---|---
Haitang Guesthouse | Renovated old house, sea-facing, attentive butler service | About NT$1,638/night
Cape of Good Hope Guesthouse | Newly built, elevator, bar and nightclub | About NT$1,446/night
Tongxin Inn | Near the pier, sea view rooms, sunset terrace | Information unavailable
Island Owner’s Guesthouse | Own island shuttle boat, tasty meals | Information unavailable

🦀 Food Experience

· Must-try seafood: Wild yellow croaker sour and spicy soup, mussel fried rice noodles
· Specialty snacks: Seaweed jelly (summer cooling treat), seaweed and dried shrimp soup (made with Xiapu’s first-harvest seaweed)
· Dining: Available at guesthouses on Beili Island or local restaurants

📝 Practical Tips

1. Itinerary Suggestions:
· One-day tour: Speedboat island hopping (Dongli Island + Bird Island + Nanli Island)
· Two-day tour: Day 1 stay on Beili Island + watch sunset, Day 2 island hopping
2. Essentials:
· Non-slip sports shoes/hiking boots, high SPF sunscreen, sun hat
· Seasickness medicine (take 30 minutes before departure)
· Lightweight jacket (sea breeze can be strong)
3. Notes:
· Island weather is changeable; check the forecast before departure
· Some islands have poor signal; inform family of your itinerary in advance
· Protect the environment; carry out all trash
4. Photography Tips:
· Wear white long dresses or outdoor jackets for best photos
· Afternoon light on Dongli Island is the most beautiful

---

The beauty of the Sili Islands lies in their rawness and wildness. Choose a sunny day, bring good friends, and come to this “real-life Zelda” to experience the romance between mountains and sea!