Location & Transportation

Wuyi Mountain Scenic Area - Shui Lian Dong Scenic Area sits in the northeastern corner of Wuyi Mountain, near Dawang Peak Road in Fujian Province. While it’s technically in Nanping City, this area feels worlds away from urban life. To get here, fly into Fuzhou or Xiamen, then take a 2-hour bullet train to Nanping. From there, a 30-minute taxi or bus ride delivers you to the entrance of this nature-packed paradise.

Natural Wonders: The Rocky Canvas

Shui Lian Dong (Water Curtain Cave) is Wuyi’s crown jewel. Imagine a towering red-rock cliff, carved by wind and rain, with a giant hole shaped like an upside-down bowl. This isn’t just any cave—it’s the biggest in Wuyi, wide enough to host a thousand people! Sunlight streams through the opening, making the rock walls glow like fire. Above, a thin waterfall trickles down, especially after rain, creating a “curtain” of water droplets that glimmer like tiny diamonds. Even on dry days, a gentle breeze sends mist wafting into the cave, cooling visitors instantly.

The cliffs here are covered in moya stone carvings (ancient rock inscriptions), like a giant outdoor art gallery. The most famous? Two huge characters “Huo Yuan” (Living Source), carved centuries ago. These words hint at the area’s spiritual vibe, blending nature with philosophy.

Cultural Treasures: Temples & Philosophers

Shui Lian Dong isn’t just about rocks and water. Perched on the cliffs, you’ll find Three Sage’s Temple, honoring Liu Zihui, Zhu Xi, and Liu Gong—three scholars who shaped Chinese thought. Nearby, Triple Faith Hall merges Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, with statues of孔子(Confucius),老子(Laozi), and释迦牟尼(Buddha) sharing one roof. It’s a rare sight that reflects Wuyi’s history as a hub for intellectuals.

Even the cave’s temples are unique: they’re built without roofs! Monks and monks-in-training live here, offering prayers rain or shine. Their simple houses blend perfectly with the raw landscape, showing how humans once lived in harmony with nature.

Hiking & Exploration Tips

The path to Shui Lian Dong is part of the adventure. Start at the main Wuyi entrance, hike for about 40 minutes, and you’ll hear the sound of trickling water before seeing the cave. The route is mostly shaded, with stone steps winding through forests and past smaller rock formations.

Inside the cave, don’t miss the “Jewel Curtain” effect—stand near the waterfall on a sunny day, and the light creates a rainbow of water beads floating in the air. For history buffs, bring a flashlight to read the ancient carvings up close.

Practical Vibes: What to Expect

This isn’t a fancy tourist trap. Wear good hiking shoes, bring water (there are limited shops), and come early to avoid crowds. The site is well-maintained but rugged—you’ll climb steep steps and duck under low rock overhangs. No worries if you’re not a mountaineer; the main attractions are easy to reach.

Nearby, you’ll find basic rest areas with benches and snack stalls. For deeper exploration, guides (who speak some English) can share stories about Zhu Xi’s time here or the legends behind the carvings.

Why It’s Worth the Trip

Shui Lian Dong offers a mix of drama and tranquility. You’ll feel small standing under the 50-meter-tall cliffs, yet oddly peaceful in the cool, quiet cave. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or ancient culture, this spot has layers to uncover. And if you visit after rain? The waterfall turns into a roaring curtain, making every step feel like a scene from a fairytale.

Come here, and you’ll understand why Wuyi’s Shui Lian Dong has been celebrated for centuries—not just as a “must-see,” but as a place where earth, water, and human wisdom create something timeless.