Location & Transportation

De'an Fortress sits quietly in Wufeng Village, Tingxi Town, Tongan District of Xiamen. To reach this hidden gem, you’ll need to embrace a bit of adventure. The fortress is nestled among lush green mountains and winding streams, about a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Xiamen. While public buses can take you close to Tingxi Town, the final stretch to Wufeng Village (No. 39 Tulou, Wufeng Village) often requires a taxi or a rented car. Be prepared for narrow village roads and scenic views that make the journey feel like part of the experience!

Natural Scenery

Surrounded by towering mountains and crystal-clear streams, De'an Fortress feels like a timeless world. The walls of the fortress are cloaked in vibrant green vines—locals call them “climbing tigers”—that have grown here for centuries. In spring and summer, the area buzzes with life, while autumn paints the surrounding forests in fiery reds and oranges. Even in winter, the misty mountains add a touch of mystery to the ruins. It’s hard to believe such wild beauty lies just an hour’s drive from Xiamen’s city lights.

Cultural Heritage

De'an Fortress isn’t just an old building—it’s a story frozen in stone. Built during the Qianlong era (around 300 years ago), this three-story stone fortification was once home to 99 rooms, owned by Xu Shangguan, one of Tongan’s wealthiest tycoons. Today, only crumbling walls and those tenacious vines remain, but they whisper tales of grandeur. Locals say the fortress was designed to resist invaders, with thick walls made from river stones. Though its rooms are gone, the sheer scale of the ruins still leaves visitors in awe.

Legends & Lore

Beyond its history, De'an Fortress is famous for a love story that’s been passed down through generations. Legend has it that Xu Shangguan fell in love with a humble village girl, but social rules kept them apart. The girl reportedly died waiting for him, and her spirit is said to roam the fortress walls at night. This tragic romance adds a layer of emotion to the visit, with many travelers pausing to imagine the past as they walk the stone paths.

Practical Facilities

Visiting De'an Fortress requires some prep. There’s no official visitor center, but the village offers basic amenities: a small parking lot, restrooms, and a few stalls selling snacks and water. Wear sturdy shoes—the terrain is uneven, and you’ll need to climb stairs carved directly into the mountain. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, especially if you’re visiting on a hot day.

Immersive Experience

Standing on the walls of De'an Fortress, you’ll feel a strange mix of melancholy and wonder. The views over the valley are stunning, but the real magic comes from touching the moss-covered stones or snapping photos with the ivy-framed walls. Even though the fortress is in ruins, it’s far from deserted. On weekends, families, photographers, and history buffs flock here. Some even leave behind lockets or notes tucked into the vines—a modern tribute to this ancient place.

Pro Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the golden light filtering through the trees. And don’t forget to ask locals about the fortress’s stories—they’re often happy to share!

Though De'an Fortress is just a shadow of its former self, its rugged beauty and haunting legends make it one of Xiamen’s most unforgettable day trips. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just finding peace in quiet corners, this crumbling fortress has something for everyone.