Written by Veronica |
Sunlight Rock sits on the southern tip of Gulangyu Island, in Xiamen, and is famously the highest point of the island. It is a great lookout point and resting spot for your tour of Gulangyu Island. Its beautiful view of the sea and surrounding landscape has attracted countless visitors from all over the world.
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- Sunlight RockĀ Facts
- What to See and Do in Sunlight Rock
- Best Time to Visit Sunlight Rock
- Attractions nearby Sunlight Rock
- Getting to Sunlight Rock
Sunlight RockĀ Facts
- Location: No.1 Sunlight Rock Road, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China
- Opening hours: 8:00 am – 5:30 pm (Monday – Sunday)
- Ticket price: CNY 50 for adults, half price for elderly aged 60-65, free entry for elderly above age 65 and children below 6 or with a height under 1.2m (around 3’11)
- Time needed: 2-3 hours
- Best time to visit: all year round
- Suited to: Nature lovers, hikers, families
What to See and Do in Sunlight Rock
Thereāre plenty of things to do while youāre at Sunlight Rock. Try climbing to the top of the rock where the view is even more breathtaking. Walk around the beautiful garden and visit the historic buildings and temples.
1. Sunlight Rock
On Gulangyu Sunlight Rock, enjoy a panoramic view of the island, Xiamen, and the sea. Climb to the top of the rock for a better view. Remember to wear comfortable hiking shoes.
2. Zheng Chenggong Memorial Hall
The memorial hall is in the Sunlight Rock Scenic Area. It is dedicated to the life of the famous Chinese military leader, Zheng Chenggong, who was a national hero in the late Ming and early Qing dynasties. Learn about his contributions to the island’s history through displays of over 300 pieces of cultural relics, photographs, and sculptures.
3. Shuzhuang Garden
Take a stroll through the beautiful Shuzhuang garden while youāre at Sunlight Rock. It features a variety of plants and flowers, a bonsai garden, a rock garden as well as a lake and a pavilion.
It is especially renowned for its unique architecture which is designed to first block your view of the sea. But once you walk to the other side, the breathtaking view of the ocean appears in front of you.
4. Haoyue Park
Haoyue Park has a magnificent statue of Zheng Chenggong. Take a leisurely walk along the coastline for a view of the landscape and the sea.
5. Xiamen Underwater World
Xiamen Underwater World is a must-see for your Xiamen tourĀ while youāre at Sunlight Rock. It is home to more than 10,000 marine animals of 350 species from all over the world. Youāll have an up-close view of your favorite marine life walking through the underwater tunnel. It is a perfect spot for a family trip.
Best Time to Visit Sunlight Rock
Sunlight Rock Xiamen is an ideal sightseeing destination all year round. However, the best seasons to visit are spring and autumn when the weather is nice, and the flowers are in full bloom. If you prefer a quieter and less crowded trip, the off-season for traveling to Xiamen is winter.
Attractions nearby Sunlight Rock
There are many other attractions nearby Sunlight Rock. Here are some of the highlights.
- Gulangyu Island: Gulangyu Island, where Sunlight Rock is located, is one of the most popular tourist spots in Xiamen. Huandao Road is a famous coastal road perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. The island beach is great for swimming and sunbathing. If youāre looking for some cultural landscape, visit the Piano Museum, the Organ Museum, or the Gulangyu Museum of International Settlement History.
- Hulishan Fortress: The Hulishan Fortress is on the southern tip of Xiamen. Youāll get a glimpse into Xiamen’s military history. The fortress was built in 1894 to defend the island against invasion. Today, it still preserves more than 50 iron cannons from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Walk around the fortress, learn about its history, and enjoy the view of the sea.
- Xiamen University: Xiamen University is renowned for having one of the most beautiful university campuses in China. Its unique architectural design is a wonder for visitors to see.
Getting to Sunlight Rock
Take a ferry from Xiamen city center to Gulangyu Island. Booking ahead online is recommended for public holidays and weekends. There are a few ports in Xiamen City and on the island. The easiest route is taking the ferry from Xiamen International Cruise Terminal to Sanqiutian Port because both ports have ferries running from 7:10 am to 5:30 pm. The journey will be about 20 minutes.
Once youāre on Gulangyu Island, you can choose to walk, take a taxi, or rent a bike to Sunlight Rock. Reaching the top of Sunlight Rock takes about 20 minutes.
