Taining Scenic Area is located in Taining County, Sanming City, Fujian Province. As a national 5A-level tourist attraction and UNESCO Global Geopark covering 492.5 square kilometers, it features four distinctive characteristics: Danxia landform, lake and mountain scenery, cave culture, and ancient town culture. Known as the "First Lake and Mountain under Heaven" and "Where China's Danxia Story Begins", it's a comprehensive tourist destination integrating geological wonders, landscapes, and cultural history.
History and Culture
With a long history dating back to the Neolithic Age, Taining County was established in 1086 during the Northern Song Dynasty, renowned as an "Ancient Town of Han-Tang and Famous City of Song Dynasties". It flourished in the Ming Dynasty, producing the cultural phenomenon of "four imperial scholars from one family and two top scholars across the river".
As an important part of the Central Soviet Area, the Red Army entered and exited Taining three times, leaving abundant red cultural relics. Meanwhile, Taining is also a major Hakka settlement in northwestern Fujian with profound Hakka cultural heritage.
Taining's Danxia landform records Earth's evolutionary history. Geologists call it "Where China's Danxia Story Begins", and in 2010 it was inscribed as part of "China Danxia" on the World Natural Heritage List.
Main Attractions
Golden Lake
The core scenic area of Taining tourism, Golden Lake covers 36 square kilometers and is known as the "First Lake and Mountain under Heaven". With dozens of islands and towering red cliffs reflecting in the water, main attractions include Sweet Dew Temple, Water Thread of Sky, and Wild Fun Garden, accessible by cruise.
Zhaixia Grand Canyon
A typical Danxia landform canyon stretching 5km, it features sheer cliffs and numerous caves with sights like Heavenly Vault Rock, Wild Goose Lake, and Cloud Cliff Ridge. Dubbed the "Danxia Cave Museum", it's ideal for geological research and sightseeing.
Minister's Residence
Built during the Tianqi era as the mansion of Ming Dynasty Minister of War Li Chunye, this 4,500-square-meter complex exemplifies Jiangnan residential architecture. Well-preserved with exquisite carvings, it showcases Ming official residence art and Taining's ancient town culture.
Nine-Dragon Pool
Named after nine dragon-like mountain streams, it represents typical youthful Danxia landform. Connected pools and waterfalls with odd-shaped rocks create attractions like Water Danxia and Nine-Dragon Cave. Bamboo rafting offers views of the spectacular "Water Thread of Sky".
Taining Ancient Town
Established in the Tang Dynasty, the ancient town preserves Ming-Qing architecture and city wall ruins. Its crisscrossing streets contain historical buildings like Minister's Residence, Shide Hall, and Red Army Street, along with traditional workshops and snack shops, showcasing Taining's long history.
Featured Activities
Golden Lake Fishing Festival
Held every autumn, this festival demonstrates traditional fishing methods and culture. Visitors can participate in first-fish auctions and fish banquets, experiencing authentic fishing village life.
Taining Meilin Opera Performances
As Fujian's intangible cultural heritage, this ancient local opera is regularly performed in the scenic area, offering a taste of unique northwestern Fujian opera culture.
Danxia Science Education
The area organizes Danxia landform science programs through geological surveys and lectures, especially popularizing geological knowledge among youth.
Local Cuisine and Specialties
Taining Organic Fish
From pristine Golden Lake, this fish has tender, non-fishy meat for dishes like fish head tofu soup and braised fish chunks, representing Taining's most iconic cuisine.
Youjiang Tofu
A traditional bean product made using ancient methods, this tofu has delicate texture and rich bean flavor, suitable for frying, boiling or stewing - a must-try local specialty.
Nuangu Steamed Buns
A Taining snack with local Nuangu mushrooms and pork filling, featuring soft wrappers and delicious fillings with unique mushroom aroma, very popular among visitors.
Ticket Information
Separate tickets apply: Golden Lake 80 yuan/person; Zhaixia Grand Canyon 55 yuan/person; Minister's Residence 25 yuan/person; Nine-Dragon Pool 75 yuan/person. Open 8:00-17:00, recommended visiting time 2-3 days. Additional fees for cruises and bamboo rafting.
Recommended Tour Route
Two-day itinerary: Day 1: Golden Lake cruise → Sweet Dew Temple → Taining Ancient Town; Day 2: Zhaixia Grand Canyon → Nine-Dragon Pool bamboo rafting → Minister's Residence. This route fully experiences Taining's natural and cultural attractions.
Transportation Guide
- High-speed rail: To Taining Station, about 15km from scenic area
- Self-driving: From Sanming via Fuyin and Pujian Expressways, about 2 hours
- Bus: Direct buses from Sanming Bus Station take about 2.5 hours
Must-See Attractions
- Golden Lake - "First Lake and Mountain under Heaven", perfect Danxia-lake combination
- Zhaixia Grand Canyon - "Danxia Cave Museum", geological wonder
- Minister's Residence - Finest Ming official architecture representing ancient town culture
Travel Tips
- Best seasons are spring and autumn; sun protection needed in summer
- Choose morning for Golden Lake cruise for best light
- Wear comfortable sports shoes as some sites require extended walking
- Allow time to taste local organic fish and specialties
- Geology enthusiasts can join science education activities
Precautions
- Protect geological relics - don't climb Danxia cliffs
- Wear life jackets and follow crew instructions when boating
- No smoking or open flames in scenic area
- Respect local Hakka customs
- Purchase specialties only from licensed stores with receipts