The fourth visit to Fuzhou's version of "Altay" — Douhu
Who would have thought! Around Fuzhou hides a "Southern Altay" — Douhu Tianchi, a high mountain secret realm formed by a dormant volcano, nearly 1100 meters above sea level, bordered to the south by Putian Dayang, to the north by Chibi Creek Grand Canyon (cable car under construction), surrounded by several kilometers of alpine meadows where herds of yellow cattle roam, every snapshot looks like a Japanese film scene 📸
🌏 Douhu is the "sky lake" at the junction of Minhou, Yongtai, and Fuqing. The Tianchi never dries up, crystal clear enough to reflect the blue sky, white clouds, and distant mountains. Paired with the natural wonder Hamburger Rock on the cliff edge (connected caves beyond the frame), spring brings fresh greenery, autumn offers sea of clouds — a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts~
🛤️ Choose from two hiking routes (beginner-friendly + scenic advanced)
▫️ Classic beginner route (recommended!)
Start: Dayang Doushuai Temple in Putian Dayang Township (direct navigation, parking lot + restrooms available)
Distance: 7 km one way, 14 km round trip, 3-4 hours (about 900 meters ascent)
Trail condition: First half is farm vehicle dirt road, second half is mountain forest trail, marked with red ribbons so no getting lost, includes a few single-plank bridges and gentle slopes, beginners can take it slow without pressure
Highlights: Direct access to the core area of Tianchi, time-saving and easy, suitable for a light day hike
▫️ Scenic advanced loop crossing the line
Route: Dayang Doushuai Temple → Hamburger Rock → Douhu Tianchi → Guoxi in Fuqing (total 13.5-14 km)
Duration: 6-8 hours (including photo breaks)
Trail condition: First half cliff trail requires hands and feet, second half muddy dirt road + stone steps, challenging but not difficult
Highlights: Check in at Hamburger Rock’s heart-shaped cave and cliff photo spots, pass through bamboo forests and streams, scenery is more three-dimensional and rich
💡 Hiking tips
1. Must-have gear: non-slip hiking shoes, trekking poles, 2L+ drinking water, quick-dry clothes + shell jacket (big temperature difference in mountains), sunscreen + raincoat (weather changes frequently)
2. Accommodation options: bring your own tent for camping (Decathlon gear rental available on the summit), or book a homestay in advance (50-100 RMB/person, serves local free-range chicken and wild vegetables)
3. Safety reminder: some sections have no signal, recommend hiking with companions, avoid rainy days to prevent slipping
Passing through bamboo forests to meadows, the moment you reach the summit, the tranquility of Tianchi and the sea of clouds over distant mountains heal you, making all the fatigue worthwhile~ Spring and autumn have cool climates, perfect for hiking, so grab your partner and go!