Guanzhai Mountain Scenic Area is located in Liancheng County, Longyan City, Fujian Province. As a national 5A-level tourist attraction and national scenic area, it covers 123 square kilometers with its main peak at 660.8 meters elevation. Named for resembling the "Xiezhi" hat of ancient judges, it combines Danxia landforms, karst caves, and primeval forests, renowned for its majesty, uniqueness, steepness, and beauty, earning titles like "Hakka Sacred Mountain" and "Danxia Wonder."
History and Culture
Development traces back to the Song Dynasty, with monks establishing temples during Southern Song's Shaoxing era. In Yuan Dynasty, it became an important Taoist site in western Fujian. During Ming-Qing periods, Hakka immigrants infused their culture, building academies and leaving cliff inscriptions, making it a literati gathering place.
The mountain preserves 100+ cliff inscriptions from Song to Qing dynasties, most notably "Guan Zhi" by Ming calligrapher Huang Daozhou. Historic sites like Shimen Lake Academy and Dongshan Cottage attest to its cultural heritage.
Designated a national geopark in 2009, it joined Wuyi Mountain and Taining Danxia as China Danxia World Natural Heritage nominee in 2017.
Main Attractions
Guanzhi Peak
The 660.8m main peak resembles ancient judge's hat. Ascending via "Thread of Sky" and "Carp Back" trails reveals spectacular Danxia formations. Summit views encompass Liancheng and, on clear days, distant Wuyi Mountains.
Shimen Lake
This 1km² alpine lake surrounded by Danxia cliffs offers "waterborne Danxia" views by boat. The lakeside Shimen Lake Academy ruins recall ancient scholars' learning environment.
Jiulong (Nine-Dragon) Lake
Named for nine dragon-like ridges, its karst cave complex features stunning illuminated stalactites in Jiulong Cave, maintaining 18°C summers - ideal for retreats.
Zhu'an Village
A well-preserved Ming-era Hakka fortress with stone walls, ancient wells, and dwellings. Its strategic hillside location demonstrates Hakka defensive ingenuity.
Cuisine
Liancheng White Duck
Geographical indication product with white feathers and tender meat. Traditionally stewed clear, its nourishing broth represents local culinary pride.
Shuan Jiupin Hotpot
Local specialty boiling nine premium beef cuts in bone broth with Hakka rice wine, embodying Hakka "waste-not" philosophy.
Pearl Meatballs
Hakka delicacy of glutinous rice-wrapped minced meat, shaped like pearls. Soft, fragrant, and essential for festivals.
Taro Dumplings
Local pasta with taro-tapioca wrappers enclosing mushrooms and pork. Chewy skin and savory filling carry distinct taro aroma.
Ticket Information
Admission: ¥115/person (includes Shimen Lake boat). 50% off for seniors over 60/students, free under 1.2m. Open 8:00-17:30 (extended to 18:00 summer).
Suggested Itinerary
Recommended one-day route: Enter east gate → Shimen Lake boat tour → Hike Guanzhi Peak via Thread of Sky and Carp Back → Lunch → Jiulong Lake caves → Zhu'an Hakka village. Allow 6-7 hours; wear sturdy hiking shoes.
Transportation
- Drive: From Longyan via Changshen Expressway to Liancheng exit, then ~40 minutes on Provincial Road 204
- Public transport: Buses from Longyan Station to Liancheng, then transfer to scenic shuttle
- Within area: Shuttles connect major sites
Must-See Attractions
- Guanzhi Peak - Iconic Danxia landform
- Shimen Lake - Alpine lake with "waterborne Danxia"
- Jiulong Lake - Spectacular karst caves
- Zhu'an Village - Hakka defensive architecture
Travel Tips
- Best seasons: Spring/Autumn for pleasant weather
- Wear anti-slip shoes for steep sections
- Bring sun protection and sufficient water
- Allocate ample time for large area
- Respect local Hakka customs
Important Notes
- Watch footing on slippery mountain paths
- Don't climb dangerous cliffs or enter restricted areas
- Protect environment - no littering
- Wear life jackets during boat tours
- Spotty mobile signals in some areas