Location & Transportation

Top Eco-Scenic Area sits in Dingcun Village, Tingxi Town, Tongan District, Xiamen. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Xiamen, nestled in the hills far from the city buzz. To get here, you can rent a car, take a bus to Tingxi, or grab a taxi—just tell the driver “Tongan Dingcun” and they’ll know the way. The address in Chinese is 福建省厦门市同安区汀溪镇顶村村, but don’t worry—locals are super helpful if you show the name in English!

Nature’s Playground

Mountain Views

At Top Eco-Scenic Area, the real star is the mountain. Climb to the summit, and you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world—literally! Imagine looking out over endless green hills, with mist swirling around like a fairy-tale scene. It’s like standing in a Chinese watercolor painting, except you’re there in person. The air smells fresh, like pine trees and rain, and you’ll want to take photos at every step.

Green Ocean

The trails here are lined with trees so tall and dense, it’s like walking through a sea of leaves. Sunlight filters through the branches, creating sparkly patterns on the ground. Locals call this “the waves of the green ocean,” and trust me—it’s just as calming as listening to actual ocean waves. Bring a wide-angle camera; you’ll want to capture the full magic!

Streams & Clouds

Halfway up the mountain, you’ll spot a crystal-clear stream winding like a ribbon. On foggy days, it looks like the hill is wearing a soft white scarf. Sit by the water, and you’ll hear the gentle gurgling—perfect for relaxing or thinking. If you’re lucky, the clouds will part just enough for a sunny view, making the whole scene feel like a dream.

Walking Through a Storybook

The paths at Top Eco-Scenic Area aren’t just trails—they’re like pages from a rural storybook. As you walk, you’ll pass tiny farms, tea fields, and old stone houses. Locals might wave while tending their crops, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. There’s no rush here; it’s all about slowing down to enjoy the simple life.

Practical Tips

What to Bring

Wear comfy shoes—those hills are steep! Pack snacks, water, and sunscreen. A hat and sunglasses are good for sunny days, and a light jacket if it’s cloudy (it gets cooler on the windy peaks).

Facilities

Don’t worry about roughing it: there’s a visitor center with maps, clean restrooms, and spots to refill water. Along the trails, you’ll find wooden benches to rest. If you get hungry, small stands sell local snacks like tea eggs or roasted peanuts. For lunch, try the nearby village—families offer home-cooked meals (think fresh veggies and mountain chicken!).

For Families

Kids will love running through the fields or spotting butterflies. Some areas have easy paths, while others are more adventurous. Just keep an eye on them—those cliffs have amazing views, but safety first!

A Day to Remember

Start early to beat the heat. Hike up slowly, stopping to take photos or chat with friendly locals. At the top, find a rock to sit on and just breathe. Later, explore the lower trails where wildflowers grow. By afternoon, head back to the village for food or tea. As the sun sets, the hills turn golden—a perfect ending to your escape into nature.

Top Eco-Scenic Area isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a chance to leave the city behind and reconnect with the quiet, beautiful side of life. Whether you’re hiking, snapping photos, or just sitting quietly, it’s a reminder of how refreshing simplicity can be.