Xiamen Mountain-Sea Health Trail: Strolling Above the Clouds, Traversing Mountains and Seas

The Xiamen Mountain-Sea Health Trail is an urban ecological corridor created by the city of Xiamen. Among its routes, the Cloud-Sea Line (also known as the Forest-Sea Line) has become a popular social media hotspot due to its breathtaking mountain and sea views. This trail connects the city, forests, and ocean, allowing visitors to enjoy the unique blend of Xiamen's "mountains, sea, and city" while walking above the ground. 🌉 Key Highlights 1. Popular Photo Spots - Wan Shi Cang Hai Section Featuring a spiral ascending design, this section overlooks the Shangli Reservoir and is often referred to as "Xiamen's Little Switzerland." Best photo spot: The highest point of the trail, where you can capture the forest, trail, and ocean in one frame. - Pan Gui Tower A circular cantilevered viewing platform offering a 270° panoramic sea view, directly facing Kinmen. Especially romantic at sunset, with the sky and sea blending into one. - Tianquan Trail Plaza Located at the entrance connecting Zeng Cuo An, this spot offers expansive sea views and serves as a great starting or ending point. 2. Unique Experiences - Elevated Walkways: Some sections of the trail are built above ground, giving the feeling of walking among treetops. - Mountain-Sea Connection: One side features lush green forests, while the other showcases the deep blue ocean. - Urban Viewing Platforms: Multiple rest stops provide panoramic views of Xiamen Island. 🚶‍♂️ Route Information Recommended Route (Highlight Section) Wan Shi Cang Hai → Pan Gui Tower → Tianquan Trail Plaza (Approx. 3km, 1-1.5 hours walking) Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ (Easy and flat) Suitable for: Families, couples, photography enthusiasts Full Route (Forest-Sea Line) Dongping Mountain Community → Wan Shi Cang Hai → Pan Gui Tower → Tianquan Trail Plaza (Approx. 7km, 2-3 hours walking) 🚗 Transportation Guide Main Entry Points - Wan Shi Cang Hai Entrance: Bus stop "Botanical Garden East Gate" (Routes 52/B2), near Shangli Reservoir. - Pan Gui Tower: Taxi to "Taiqing Palace" (trail entrance), near Zeng Cuo An. - Tianquan Trail Plaza: Bus stop "Zengshan Station" (Routes 29/47), starting point by the seaside. Recommended Route Transportation - Starting from Wan Shi Cang Hai (ideal for photography): Take a taxi to "Dongping Mountain Community Bus Stop," then walk 10 minutes to the trail entrance. - Starting from Pan Gui Tower (ideal for sunset views): Take a taxi to "Taiqing Palace," then walk 5 minutes to the trail entrance. 📅 Best Visiting Times - Early Morning (6:00-8:00): Fewer crowds, fresh air. - Evening (4:00-6:00 PM): Stunning sunsets, with Pan Gui Tower being the perfect viewing spot. - Avoid Noon: Some sections lack shade, making it hot during summer. 📸 Photography Tips - Wan Shi Cang Hai Section: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the spiral trail and forest layers. Overhead shots of Shangli Reservoir showcase its green lawn as a "natural color palette." - Pan Gui Tower: Take silhouette shots against the ocean sunset. The circular trail structure makes for striking compositions. Outfit Suggestions Light or bright-colored clothing to stand out against the natural backdrop. ⚠️ Important Notes - Sun and Mosquito Protection: Some trail sections lack shade; bring a hat and apply sunscreen. - Comfortable Footwear: Flat shoes are ideal; the trail is smooth but covers a long distance. - Bring Water: Few vending points along the way. - Safety Reminder: Cycling and pets are prohibited on the trail. 🚶‍♂️ Nearby Attractions - Shangli Reservoir Park: Overlooked by the Wan Shi Cang Hai section, perfect for picnics. - Zeng Cuo An: The trail's endpoint, offering local snacks and creative shops. - Island Ring Road: Located near Tianquan Trail Plaza, ideal for cycling or strolling by the sea. The Xiamen Mountain-Sea Health Trail is a free public park that rivals paid scenic spots in beauty. Whether you're looking to take stunning photos, exercise, or simply enjoy a leisurely time between mountains and sea, this is the perfect destination! 🌿🌊