While there are many columnar joint groups found in China, only a few like Zhangpu, Penghu, and Hua’ao Island have formed sea-eroded cliffs, mostly featuring dark basalt landscapes. Hua’ao Shilin stands out with its bright and simple hues, being a very rare type of welded tuff. Its massive size is larger than the stone columns in Zhangpu and Penghu, and even more robust than the columns of the Giant’s Causeway in the UK, which can have diameters of forty to fifty centimeters.
Located at the mouth of Sanmen Bay in the southern part of Xiangshan County, the scenic area covers a land area of 11.12 square kilometers, with Hua’ao Island itself covering 9.83 square kilometers. The area is composed of four major parts: natural scenery of the island, coastal sea-eroded landforms, beaches, pebble beaches, and cultural landscapes. The island is layered with verdant mountains and enchanting views, with 36 bays and 108 caves, each with its own scenery and ‘fairy’ presence.
Opening times are from January 1st to December 31st, 07:30 to 17:30. Preferential policies include: Children under 1.2 meters tall enter free of charge, children between 1.2 meters (inclusive) and 1.5 meters (inclusive) receive a discounted ticket; Elderly people aged 70 years old (inclusive) and above with a senior citizen’s card enter free of charge; Students with valid identification receive a half-price ticket.
Additional note: The information above is for reference only, please check with the scenic area for the most accurate information.
