**Xiawei Island: The Hidden "Sea Arch" of Xiapu, A Magical Moment of Sunrise and Rocks**

**Xiawei Island – The Natural Photography Studio of Xiapu's "Guilin on the Sea," A Labyrinth of Rocks and Sunrise Secrets** **Xiawei Island** is located in **Changchun Town, Xiapu County, Ningde City, Fujian Province**, a small peninsula at the **eastern tip of Xiapu's Dongchong Peninsula**. Known for its **unique rock formations, sea-eroded caves, and breathtaking sunrises**, it has become a **"Gem of Xiapu"** in the hearts of photography enthusiasts. Though small in size, it encapsulates **marvels of sea erosion and the art of light and shadow**, making it a popular destination for **short trips, photography, and beachcombing experiences**. --- ## **🌊 Must-Visit Highlights of Xiawei Island** ### **1. Sea-Eroded Cave Wonders – Natural Arches and Light Play** - **Iconic Sea-Eroded Cave**: - A natural arch-shaped cave revealed at low tide, resembling an elephant's trunk. At sunrise, light pierces through the rock walls, creating a golden halo (**Best shooting time: Summer mornings, 5:30–6:30 AM**). - **Note**: Tides change rapidly—check tide tables in advance to avoid being stranded. - **Rock Labyrinth**: - Volcanic rocks eroded by seawater form a maze of uniquely shaped formations, perfect for climbing and exploration (wear anti-slip shoes). ### **2. Sunrise and Sunset – Xiapu's Premier Viewing Spots** - **Sunrise Location**: - East of the sea-eroded cave, where the sun rises over the horizon, casting golden edges on the rocks and waves. - **Sunset Spot**: - The rocky beach on the west side of the peninsula, where the evening glow paints the sea red, ideal for silhouette photography. ### **3. Lüxia Pier and Nearby Attractions** - **Lüxia Lighthouse**: - 2 km from Xiawei Island, this red-and-white lighthouse paired with cliffside coasts creates a cinematic scene, perfect for drone shots. - **Dajing Beach**: - Xiapu's longest sandy beach (3 km), with fine sand—great for combining with Xiawei Island for a day trip. --- ## **🚗 Transportation Guide** - **Self-Drive**: - Navigate to **Xiawei Island, Xiapu**. About 2.5 hours from Fuzhou, 4 hours from Xiamen. - **Parking**: Free parking at the village entrance, a 10-minute walk to the shore. - **Public Transport**: - Take a bus from Xiapu Railway Station to **Changchun Town**, then transfer by motorbike or shared taxi to Xiawei Island (~¥20/person). --- ## **🏡 Accommodation Recommendations** - **Xiapu County**: - Luxury option: Xiapu Royal View International Hotel (convenient, close to the railway station). - Budget-friendly: Local homestays (e.g., "Xiapu Pusu," ~¥200/night). - **Seaside Homestays**: - Changchun Town’s **"Shijianhai"** or **"Caomuren"**, offering views of fishing rafts, 15-minute drive to Xiawei Island. --- ## **🦀 Food Guide** - **Must-Try in Xiapu**: - **Razor Clams**: Prepared with scallion oil or salt-baked, plump and flavorful (try "Xinmeiweiyuan Seafood Restaurant"). - **Seaweed Sprouts**: Served cold or in soup, fresh and crisp. - **Minnan Paste**: A thick stew made with sweet potato starch and seafood. - **Fishing Village Eateries**: - Local fishermen’s stalls at the village entrance (~¥50/person, fresh catch). --- ## **📌 Travel Tips** - **Best Season**: May–October (early sunrise, clear waters); avoid July–August typhoon season. - **Tide Check**: Follow "China Maritime Service Network" or local fishermen’s advice for safety. - **Photography Gear**: Wide-angle lens for caves, tripod essential for long exposures. - **Precautions**: - Rocks are slippery and sharp—wear anti-slip shoes and gloves. - No commercial facilities—bring water and snacks. - Protect the environment—no littering or damaging rocks. --- ## **✨ Xiawei Island vs. Other Xiapu Attractions?** - **Compared to Beqi Mudflats**: Xiawei Island excels in rocks and sunrise, while Beqi focuses on mudflat lightscapes and fishing scenes. - **Compared to Sishang Islands**: Xiawei Island is more accessible for day trips; Sishang Islands require boat rides and are wilder.