Location & Accessibility

Tianzhu Mountain National Forest Park is nestled in the northwestern suburbs of Xiamen, within the state-owned Tianzhu Mountain Forest Farm. It’s easy to reach via the Fuzhou-Zhangzhou Expressway, which runs along its southern edge. The address is No.1, Tianzhulu, Hongtang Village, Dongfu Town, Haicang District—perfect for a day trip or weekend escape from downtown Xiamen.

How to Get There

  • By Car: Punch “Tianzhu Mountain National Forest Park” into your GPS. The expressway makes it a smooth 30–40-minute drive from Xiamen Island.
  • Public Transport: Take bus 898 from Xiamen North Station to Dongfu Town, then transfer to a local shuttle (ask staff for help—they’re used to guiding tourists).
  • Bike Rental: For active travelers, rent a bike in Xiamen and ride along scenic rural roads. The park has bike-friendly paths too!

Natural Highlights

Tianzhu Mountain lives up to its name (“Silver Clam Mountain” in Chinese legend) with dramatic landscapes. Here’s what to expect:

  • Towering Peaks: The highest point, Tianzhu Peak, rises to 933 meters, while Xianling Banner (916m) offers equally epic views.
  • Lush Forests: Over 70% of the park is covered in trees, with trails winding through cedar, bamboo, and ancient oak woods.
  • Crystal Lakes: Five man-made lakes sparkle like jewels. Xi Tou Lake is the largest, spanning 11 square kilometers—great for boating or picnicking by the water.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for egrets, monkeys, and colorful butterflies. The park is a haven for birdwatchers too!

Adventure & Activities

At Tianzhu Mountain National Forest Park, there’s something for every traveler:

  • Hiking: Choose from easy lakeside walks or challenge yourself with the 3-hour climb to Tianzhu Peak.
  • Camping: Pitch a tent at designated areas near the lakes. Bring warm clothes—it gets chilly at night!
  • Summer Fun: The park’s high altitude makes it a cool retreat during Xiamen’s hot summers.
  • Photo Ops: Sunrise from the summit? Misty forests? Lake reflections? Your Instagram feed will thank you.

Cultural Touches

While Tianzhu Mountain is known for nature, it has a few cultural gems too:

  • Ancient Temples: A century-old Buddhist temple hides in the woods, with quiet courtyards for meditation.
  • Historic Trails: Locals say these paths were once used by monks—walk them for a peek into Xiamen’s past.
  • Stone Carvings: Look for weathered cliff inscriptions dating back to the Ming Dynasty.

Practical Tips

  • Visitor Center: Stop here first for maps, snacks, and English-speaking guides.
  • Food & Drinks: Pack a lunch, but there’s also a small café near the main lake serving tea and light meals.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer mild weather and vibrant foliage. Avoid rainy season (June–August) if you don’t like humidity.
  • What to Wear: Comfortable shoes are a must. Layer up—weather changes quickly in the mountains.

Why You’ll Love It

Tianzhu Mountain National Forest Park feels worlds away from Xiamen’s city buzz. Whether you’re hiking to the summit, kayaking on a misty lake, or just breathing fresh air, it’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Pro tip: Go on a weekday to avoid crowds and soak up the serenity!