Huxi Rock Road: The Hidden Trail of Xiamen Railway Cultural Park

Between Xiamen Botanical Garden and Huxi Rock lies a charming path steeped in history—**Huxi Rock Road**. Once part of an old railway, it has been transformed into a gentle walking trail, serving as an extension of the **Xiamen Railway Cultural Park**. Connecting **Hongshan Tunnel** in the south to **Huyuan Road** in the north, this shaded pathway weaves through lush greenery, where rusted tracks meet stone steps, blending industrial nostalgia with the freshness of mountain scenery. **【The Legend of Huxi Rock: Moonlit Tigers and Temple Bells】** The road derives its name from an ancient legend of **Huxi Rock**. It is said that a stone cave on the mountain was once home to a fierce tiger, and a mountain spring flowing past the cave formed a stream where the tiger often drank—hence the name "Tiger Stream" (Huxi), which later named the rock. During the Ming Dynasty, the stone enthusiast **Lin Maoshi** carved the "Lengceng Cave" here, placing a stone tiger beneath a statue of an arhat. On the 15th day of each lunar month, moonlight would illuminate the cave, making the tiger's eyes gleam as if ready to pounce—a spectacle known as **"Tiger Stream Under the Moon"**, once one of Xiamen’s "Eight Great Scenic Spots". Today, remnants like **Fuhu Cave, Duhu Bridge, Jiatian Path, and Feijing Stone** remain, making it a perfect spot for moon-viewing during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Nearby stands **Huxi Zen Temple** (originally "Yuping Temple"), built during the Ming Dynasty. Destroyed in wars, it was later rebuilt in the Qing Dynasty by **Wu Ying**, the Fujian Navy Commander. Ancient trees tower within the temple grounds, and the murmuring chants transport visitors back to Xiamen centuries ago. **【Strolling the Railway Trail: Slow Moments in the City】** Though the initial section of Huxi Rock Road is somewhat steep, it soon levels into a gentle railway path. Shaded by trees and adorned with bougainvillea and firecracker flowers, the trail offers ever-changing seasonal views. At dawn or dusk, you’ll often encounter elderly locals exercising, tourists snapping photos, and the occasional cyclist passing by. The trail ends at **Hongshan Tunnel**, where the original railway ambiance is preserved. The tunnel walls feature murals depicting Xiamen’s history, creating a walk through time. **【Stay in Jimei, Explore in Siming】** For convenience, we recommend staying at **Jinjiang Inn Xiamen Airport T4 Jimei School Village**, just a 20-minute drive from Huxi Rock Road. The hotel is located in Jimei School Village, a cultural hub where mornings can be spent strolling around **Dragon Boat Pond** and evenings exploring the lively **Shigu Road** food street, immersing in Xiamen’s authentic local charm. **【Travel Tips】** ✅ **Best Time**: Early morning or evening for soft lighting and great photos ✅ **Nearby Attractions**: Huxi Zen Temple, Hongshan Tunnel, Xiamen Botanical Garden ✅ **Transport**: Take a bus to "Botanical Garden Station" or "Huxi Rock Station" and walk Huxi Rock Road—a hidden trail blending nature, history, and railway culture—awaits your discovery! 🌿🚶‍♂️