Taimu Mountain Scenic Area is located in Fuding City, Ningde, Fujian Province. As a national 5A-level tourist attraction and UNESCO Global Geopark, it covers 100 square kilometers with its main peak at 917.3 meters. Known as "Fairy Capital on the Sea" and "Grand View of Mountains and Sea," it features granite peak forest landforms with 54 peaks, 45 rocks, 24 caves, 10 cliffs, 9 springs, 3 streams, 2 waterfalls, and 1 valley. Blending rich She ethnic culture and Buddhist heritage, it's a comprehensive scenic area integrating mountains, sea, rivers, and islands.
History and Culture
With ancient origins tracing back to alchemist Rong Chengzi during the Yellow Emperor's era, Taimu Mountain was recorded in Han Dynasty texts. Buddhism flourished here during the Tang Dynasty with 36 temples. Zhu Xi lectured here in the Song Dynasty, leaving inscriptions. By Ming-Qing periods, it became an important Buddhist site and literati gathering place in eastern Fujian.
As a cradle of She ethnic culture, generations of She people have developed unique customs here. Numerous cliff inscriptions and ancient temple ruins testify to its long history. In 2010, Taimu Mountain joined Yuanyangxi and Baiyang to form Ningde Global Geopark under UNESCO. It was designated a 5A-level scenic area in 2013.
Main Attractions
Couple Peak
The iconic landmark consists of two granite peaks resembling embracing spouses, standing about 80m tall. Viewed from different angles at dawn/dusk, it presents varying spectacular shapes. The "Deep Love" carving below makes it a must-visit for couples.
Thread of Sky
This famous 200m-long canyon narrows to just one-person width. Towering cliffs reveal only a sliver of sky above. Cool and serene, its stone inscriptions from past dynasties offer high aesthetic value.
Nine Carp Leaping Skyward
A group of granite rocks resembling nine carps jumping toward heaven. Especially when shrouded in mist, they appear vividly alive, showcasing Taimu's magical granite formations.
White Cloud Temple
Built in the Tang Dynasty as Taimu's oldest surviving Buddhist temple, its name comes from perpetual cloud cover. Housing a main hall, Guanyin pavilion, Ming bronze Buddha, and historic steles, it remains an important active Buddhist site.
Cuisine
Fuding Sliced Pork
Local specialty of hand-pounded pork slices in spicy-sour broth. Tender meat with flavorful soup makes perfect post-hike energy food.
She Ethnic Black Rice
Traditional dish of glutinous rice steamed after soaking in Vaccinium bracteatum leaf juice. Glossy black with herbal aroma, it's nutritious and restorative.
Taimu Mist Tea
High-mountain tea grown above 800m elevation in misty zones. Clear liquor with refreshing aroma and taste helps rejuvenate the mind, ideal as gift.
Seafood Rice Noodles
Coastal specialty combining fresh seafood with local rice noodles. Savory broth, smooth noodles, and plump seafood embody Taimu's mountain-sea fusion.
Ticket Information
Admission: ¥140/person (peak season Apr 1-Oct 31), ¥100/person (off-season Nov 1-Mar 31). Shuttle ticket ¥40/person. 50% off for seniors over 60/students, free under 1.2m. Open 7:00-17:30 (extended to 18:00 peak season).
Suggested Itinerary
Recommended one-day tour: Morning shuttle to Couple Peak Plaza → Hike through Thread of Sky and Nine Carp areas → Lunch at mountain restaurant → Afternoon at White Cloud Temple → Final climb to Sea-Viewing Pavilion for East China Sea vistas. Allow 6-7 hours; wear sturdy hiking shoes.
Transportation
- Self-drive: From Fuzhou via Shenhai Expressway to Fuding exit, then ~30 minutes on County Road 973
- Public transport: Direct buses from Fuzhou North Station/Ningde Bus Station to Fuding, then transfer to scenic shuttle
- Within area: Shuttles connect major sites
Must-See Attractions
- Couple Peak - Iconic landmark
- Thread of Sky - Thrilling canyon wonder
- Nine Carp Leaping Skyward - Magical granite formations
- White Cloud Temple - Millennia-old Buddhist sanctuary
Travel Tips
- Best seasons: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather
- Wear anti-slip hiking shoes for steep sections
- Bring rain gear and sun protection - changeable mountain weather
- Allocate time to appreciate granite landscapes
- Respect She ethnic customs and Buddhist etiquette
Important Notes
- Watch footing on slippery mountain paths
- Don't climb dangerous cliffs or enter restricted areas
- Protect environment - no littering
- No smoking or open flames in scenic area
- Spotty mobile signals in some areas