Location & How to Get There

Huiyuan Rock sits inside the Wuyi Mountain National Scenic Area, nestled along the winding Sanxian Provincial Road in Nanping City, Fujian Province. To reach this hidden gem, drive toward Jiuqu Toll Station and exit the highway. From there, follow signs to the Huiyuan Rock area—it’s a short walk or shuttle ride from the parking lot. If you’re traveling by train, hop off at Nanping City Station and grab a taxi or local bus to the scenic area’s entrance.

Pro tip: Visit on a sunny day to catch the rock’s vibrant colors and avoid crowds.

Natural Wonders: Rocks, Caves, and Tea Fields

Huiyuan Rock is famous for its striking red sandstone formations, shaped by millions of years of wind and rain. The rock’s surface is covered in moss and ferns, giving it a “mysterious jungle” vibe. Nearby, a clear stream winds through the valley, reflecting the towering cliffs like a mirror.

One highlight is the “Eight Immortals Cave” (八仙洞), carved into the rock. Legend says the eight Taoist immortals once rested here—you’ll see their carved figures peeking out from alcoves. For panoramic views, climb up to the “Tea Viewing Pavilion” (观茶亭). On clear days, you can spot terraced tea fields stretching toward the horizon, where local farmers grow wuyi rock tea, one of China’s most famous oolongs.

Cultural Treasures: Temples and Carvings

This place isn’t just about nature—it’s packed with history too. At the base of Huiyuan Rock, you’ll find the Xiangyan Temple (香岩寺), a Buddhist temple dating back over 800 years. Monks still chant here daily, and the temple’s wooden beams are decorated with intricate carvings of dragons and lotus flowers.

The real showstopper? The cliff-side calligraphy. Ancient scholars and poets left behind huge Chinese characters carved directly into the rock, celebrating the beauty of Wuyi Mountain. Even if you don’t read Chinese, the artful brushstrokes look like abstract paintings against the rust-red stone.

Practical Tips: What to Bring & Where to Rest

Huiyuan Rock is very walkable, but wear comfy shoes—the paths are rocky and steep in spots. Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks, especially if you plan to hike up to the caves. The area gets shady in the afternoon, so mornings are best for photos.

Inside the scenic area, you’ll find clean restrooms, souvenir shops selling tea and carvings, and a teahouse where you can sample local rock tea. Pro tip: Try the “Da Hong Pao” (大红袍)—it’s grown just a few miles away and costs a pretty penny!

Why You’ll Love Huiyuan Rock

If you’re tired of crowded tourist spots, Huiyuan Rock offers a peaceful escape into nature and history. It’s perfect for light hiking, photography, or just sitting by the stream to listen to birdsong. Bonus: Fewer tourists means you might have the rock’s ancient temples and caves all to yourself.

Just remember—this spot is a hidden treasure of Wuyi Mountain, not in Xiamen! Plan a day trip from Nanping City, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a traditional Chinese landscape painting.

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