Xianrenjing (Fairy Well) is located within the Donghai Fairyland Scenic Area, Liushui Township, Pingtan County, Fuzhou City, Fujian Province. It is a national 4A-level tourist attraction and one of Pingtan’s most representative marine?erosion landscapes. The core feature, the Fairy Well, is a natural marine?erosion shaft formed over tens of millions of years by wave erosion and weathering. It is the centrepiece of the Donghai Fairyland Scenic Area. The well has a diameter of about 33 metres, a depth of about 47 metres, and steep, cylindrical walls. Its bottom connects to the East China Sea through three natural sea?erosion tunnels. The entire scenic area covers roughly 2.88 square kilometres and is renowned for its奇特 marine?erosion landforms, magnificent coastal scenery, and pristine shoreline. It offers sightseeing, geological education, photography, and seaside leisure, and is one of the core attractions of Pingtan International Tourism Island.
History and Culture
The name “Xianrenjing” comes from a local legend. It is said that the Eight Immortals once travelled to the Pingtan sea area, rested here, and made elixirs, leaving immortal footprints in the well—hence the name. The surrounding area is accordingly called Donghai Fairyland. In the traditional culture of Pingtan’s fishermen, the well has long been regarded as a sacred site for praying for safety. Before setting out to sea, fishermen often gaze toward the Fairy Well to wish for calm seas and a good catch—a custom that continues today.
Geologically, the Fairy Well was formed during the Cretaceous period, about 130 million years ago, and is composed of volcanic tuff. It is the most typical and best?preserved marine?erosion shaft on the southeastern coast of China, with high geological research value. Geologists have called it a “museum of marine?erosion landforms.” In modern times, its unique natural scenery has attracted writers, artists, and photographers, and it has become an important carrier of Pingtan’s maritime culture and folk traditions.
Major Attractions
Xianrenjing (Fairy Well)
The core attraction. A natural cylindrical marine?erosion shaft, 33 metres in diameter and 47 metres deep, with steep, smooth walls made of grey?brown volcanic tuff. Three sea?erosion tunnels at the bottom connect to the East China Sea. At high tide, waves surge into the well, creating spectacular crashing surf and echoing roar; at low tide, visitors can closely observe the reef and wave?worn marks at the bottom. It is an excellent spot for viewing erosion wonders, listening to the tides, and taking photos.
Xianrenfeng (Immortal Peak)
A 28?metre?high sea?stack located east of the Fairy Well, standing alone on the coast. Its upright shape resembles a standing immortal, hence the name. Made of volcanic tuff, it has been shaped by waves and wind into a distinctive pillar, complementing the Fairy Well and making it another landmark of Donghai Fairyland.
Xianrengu (Immortal Valley)
A natural marine?erosion gorge connecting the Fairy Well to the sea, about 120 metres long and 3 to 8 metres wide, with cliff walls about 30 metres high on both sides. The gorge is narrow and deep. At high tide, seawater flows backward into the gorge, creating a “tidal surge” spectacle. Walking through it offers a thrilling experience of coastal geological wonders.
Xianrentai (Immortal Terrace)
An observation platform atop the Fairy Well, covering about 150 square metres. It offers the best panoramic view of the Fairy Well, the distant East China Sea, and surrounding landmarks including Immortal Peak and the coastline. It is the prime spot for visitor photos and check?ins.
Suggested Tour Route：
Scenic Entrance → Xianrentai Observation Deck → Xianrenjing Core Viewpoint → Xianrengu Valley → Xianrenfeng Peak → Coastal Sightseeing Trail → Scenic Exit
Visit Tips：
Recommended visiting time: 1 to 1.5 hours. The core sights are concentrated and easily walkable.
Best viewing time: during rising tide – check the Pingtan tide table in advance to experience waves surging into the well.
Mornings or evenings offer soft light, ideal for photographing seascapes and geological features, and avoiding strong midday sun.
Follow the coastal trail to see each attraction in sequence without backtracking.
Photography enthusiasts: bring a wide?angle lens to capture the full well panorama and coastal vistas.
Safety and Precautions：
The coastal area is windy. Do not approach cliff edges or the outside of guardrails; watch your step to prevent slips and falls.
During high tide, do not enter the Immortal Valley or the bottom of the Fairy Well, as you may be trapped by rising seawater.
Cliffs are steep; climbing the well walls or Immortal Peak is prohibited to protect the natural landscape.
Do not litter or deface rocks; help preserve the pristine coastal environment.
On rainy days, the trails can be slippery; wear non?slip shoes and walk carefully.
Minors and the elderly should be accompanied by family members; do not explore alone.
Transportation：
Self?driving: From Pingtan county town, drive north along Huandao East Road for about 22 km to the Donghai Fairyland parking lot (free parking available).
Public bus: Take Bus No. 25 from Pingtan Bus Station to Donghai Fairyland stop, then walk about 500 metres to the entrance.
Ride?hailing / taxi: From Pingtan county town to the Fairy Well takes about 25 minutes.
Cycling: Rent an e?bike and cycle along Huandao East Road – the trip takes about 1 hour, with pleasant coastal views along the way.
Opening Hours：
Peak season (April to October): 07:30 – 18:30
Low season (November to March): 08:00 – 17:30
Hours may be adjusted based on tides and weather; the scenic area may close temporarily during severe weather for visitor safety.
Admission：
Ticket price: 33 RMB per person.