There's a Golden Coast Near Xiamen, Free of Charge!
Here, it's a place of historical significance, one of the four ancient seashores of Zhangzhou; here, the sea is azure, a hidden golden coast near Xiamen. Its name is 'Suspended Bell', poetic and historic. And for us, we've been old friends for many years, repeatedly revisiting, yet always leaving with lingering feelings…
Sunset at Suspended Bell
Coastal Fortifications, Stone Carvings of Ancient Times
Suspended Bell Ancient Town is located on the western coast of the Chao'an Bay, Meilingmen Village, Chao'an County, Zhangzhou CityThe name comes from the shape of the town resembling a suspended bell
Suspended Bell Ancient TownOne of the Ming and Qing Dynasty's important coastal defense fortifications in southeast ChinaDuring the anti-Japanese war, patriotic generals Qi Jiguang and Yu Daiyou also stationed themselves here. Suspended Bell Town thus became a renowned strategic stronghold along the southeast coast
Yellow KaiTai's 'Suspended Bell Nostalgia' vividly depicts its important location and unique experiences: 'Japanese pirates surge like a rainbow, the ruins of the past evoke memories of General Qi. Departing from the extreme harbor, returning with the setting sun, the cold mountains and old towers echo with the sound of autumn insects. The surging tides roar powerfully, a strong strategic position. Seeking to honor the spirits, searching for no place to rest, the vast sea and sky filled with sorrow. '
Watangtai ()Talking about the historical charm of Suspended Bell Town inevitably mentions the magnificent stone carvings on the coastline –
Watangtai ()'Watangtai' is a motivational inscription carved on a giant stone, created by Cai Chao, the Right Assistant to the Fujian Governor-General during the Ming Dynasty, intended to inspire morale. The stone is about 6 meters high and 3 meters wide, oriented north-south, standing firmly, with a smooth, reflective surface resembling a mirror. The words 'Watangtai' are inscribed in bold calligraphy, conveying a powerful and majestic atmosphere. He also wrote 'Suspended Bell Eight Scenic Poems', with 'Looking at the Sea from Stone' being a particularly evocative piece: 'Looking far into the endless sea, seeking my own path; the waves surge and crash, echoing the spring thunder. The Chinese crane and wild goose take to the clouds, the swift heron soars back, triggering a sense of awe. Suddenly, shedding worldly cares, breaking through the barriers, gazing upon the river god. Immediately wanting to cast aside my fishing rod and explore the Six, but only regret that I hadn't yet discerned the wisdom of the river god. ' Vividly portraying the feeling of contemplating the boundless sea while standing on Watangtai
Watangtai Front Boardwalk and Viewing Platform, Far-Reaching Views
Unique leaning rocks, clear water
Walking along the stone steps and pathways of the boardwalk, we encountered a villager carrying a load, skillfully working, and another quietly weaving fishing nets. This simple, authentic local snack was truly delightfulWe curiously asked the villager about the objects in his load, he proudly showed us his homemade dried fish, and kindly invited us to taste it. This authentic local delicacy was beyond our praiseWe then curiously pointed to the seemingly endless aquaculture grounds at sea and asked what they were cultivating. The villager told us that they were cultivating oysters. These oyster grounds were like sparkling stars in the sea, and the fishing boats were like guards, constantly protecting these starry seas
Driving is the best option for a family trip
Suspended Bell Town is located in Chao'an County, Zhangzhou City
Approximately 2 hours and a bit drive from Xiamen, about 1 hour and a bit from Shantou. Simply search for 'Suspended Bell Town' on your navigation device for easy access
Please note that when entering the village, you are nearing the destination. Due to the narrow village roads, please yield to oncoming traffic and avoid speeding. Also, pay attention to the aging directional signs, which can still be clearly seen
There's a 'person' shaped fork in the road, and you should go down the road on the right to reach Suspended Bell Ancient Town and the coastal boardwalkThe left route leads to the Temple of Guan Yu, another tourist attraction in the town. If you have time, you can also make a round trip to visit it
“”
“”
