Location & Transportation
Wanshi Rock sits inside Xiamen Botanical Garden at 25 Huyuan Road, Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian Province. To get there, take Bus No. 87 or 943 and hop off at the “Botanical Garden” stop. Alternatively, a 10-minute taxi ride from Xiamen Harbor will drop you right at this natural wonder. The entrance ticket includes access to both the garden and Wanshi Rock’s trails.
Natural Wonders: A Rocky Adventure
Wanshi Rock is all about stones—big ones, small ones, and weirdly shaped ones! Imagine climbing up a hill where ancient rocks stick out everywhere, covered in moss and vines. Some look like giant pencils standing straight up, which locals call “thousand-pillar tribute to heaven” (a cool way to describe how the stones point toward the sky like offering plates).
Between the rocks, you’ll find a deep gully called “Little Peach Blossom Valley” (Xiaotao Yuan), with a crystal-clear stream running through it. The sound of trickling water makes it feel like a hidden paradise. Keep an eye out for Elephant Trunk Peak—a rock formation that looks exactly like an elephant’s nose! At its base, there’s a massive rock named “Cloud-Locking Stone” (Suoyun Shi). Legend says clouds get trapped here, stuck between the stone and the mountainside.
Cultural Treasures: Temples & Carvings
Among the chaos of rocks, you’ll spot Wanshi Lotus Temple, a tiny but精致的（meticulous）old temple tucked into the stones. It’s a peaceful spot to pause and admire how nature and history blend here. Ancient Chinese carvings cover many rocks, like secret messages left by poets centuries ago. For example, “Thousand-Pillow Salute to Heaven” (another name for the stone pillars) sounds fancy, but just imagine rows of stone tablets bowing to the sky—it’s pretty cool!
Nearby, White Deer Cave (Bai Lu Dong) adds a touch of mystery. This cave was once a study spot for scholars, and even though the deer are gone, the rock carvings and quiet vibes remain.
Trails & Facilities: Easy but Epic
The paths here are well-marked, with stairs and railings to help you navigate the steeper parts. Wear comfy shoes—there’s a lot of up and down! Along the way, there are shaded rest areas and vendors selling snacks and cold drinks. Pro tip: Bring bug spray, as some parts near the stream can get buggy.
For families, there’s a children’s playground near the entrance, and the garden itself has swans and koi ponds to keep kids entertained. If you’re into photos, Wanshi Rock’s strange rocks and lush greenery make it a perfect backdrop—just avoid midday when the sun is too harsh.
Why You Should Visit
Wanshi Rock isn’t just a hike—it’s like stepping into a Chinese painting. You’ll walk through forests of old trees, dodge rocks that look like they’re alive, and stumble upon temples and carvings that connect you to Xiamen’s past. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just someone who enjoys breathing fresh air, this place has something for everyone. Just don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to capture every weird rock and hidden corner!
