Sunlight Rock Scenic Area Guide

Introduction

Sunlight Rock (日光岩), formed by two massive boulders leaning against each other, is the highest point of Gulangyu Island (92.7m elevation) and offers 360° breathtaking views of Xiamen city, surrounding islands, and the Taiwan Strait.

Historical Significance

• Originally called “Rocky Mountain” (晃岩)
• Renamed in 1641 when Koxinga (Zheng Chenggong) compared its beauty to Japan’s Mount Nikko and combined the characters 日 (sun) + 晃 (rock) to create “Sunlight Rock”

Visitor Experience

Main Attractions

1. Summit Observation Deck

• Small platform with safety railings
• Tip: Visit early morning or evening to avoid crowds
• Best time for photography: Sunrise/sunset

1. Sunlight Rock Temple

• A quiet Buddhist temple nestled in the scenic area
• Features ancient stone carvings

1. Zheng Chenggong Memorial Hall

• Exhibits about the Ming dynasty general who used Gulangyu as a military base

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Ticket Prices

Note: Hong Kong/Macao/Taiwan visitors enjoy same discounts with valid travel permits

Visitor Tips

1. Avoid Crowds

• Mornings before 9 AM or after 4 PM are least crowded
• Weekdays > Weekends

1. What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes (steep steps)
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
• Camera for panoramic shots

1. Nearby Attractions

• Shuzhuang Garden (10-min walk)
• Gulangyu Piano Museum

Facilities

• Restrooms: Located near water playground ruins & Zheng Chenggong Memorial Hall
• Smoking Area: Designated spots (ask staff)
• No elevators: Requires climbing ~300 steps to summit

Contact: 📞 0592-2062868