Colorful Dongtou: 360-Degree Ocean Views, Beauty Rivaling Pingtan Island
In Wenzhou, southern Zhejiang, lies the "Hundred-Island" Dongtou. Here, you'll find the rare blue seas of the Jiangnan region, boasting captivating scenery. Centuries of seawater erosion have sculpted numerous reefs and sandy beaches in Dongtou, creating a breathtaking panorama with the sea and sky.
In Dongtou, mornings begin with the sound of waves, and nights are spent lulled by the sea. Scattered islands and reefs form a poetic, picturesque, and majestic scene, while the colorful fishing village adds vibrant hues. In this maritime garden, sunshine and sandy beaches are essential elements, and the fishing villages and rock formations showcase both fishing culture and nature's artistry. With 360-degree ocean views, its beauty rivals that of Fujian's Pingtan Island.
Driving to Dongtou from Wenzhou takes about an hour. Crossing the Lingni North Embankment and Shenmen Bridge, the coastal road will immerse you in stunning seascapes. Upon arrival, the colorful fishing village against the backdrop of the ocean evokes a sense of harmony and tranquility with nature.
🧡DAY 1: Colorful Dongtou Village - Xiandieyan Scenic Area - Banping Mountain Scenic Area - Moon Embankment
⛺Colorful Dongtou Village:
💴Admission: Free
🏨Address: Dongtou Village, Dongping Street, Dongtou District
Dongtou Fishing Village is an enchanting place located at the southern tip of Dongtou Island. The village's colorful houses cascade along the azure coastline like a vibrant oil painting, dreamlike and surreal.
Wandering through the alleys of the colorful village, every turn holds surprises. Bright pigments adorn every corner—pink hearts, giant angel wings, charming milk tea shops, fish murals on stone walls, and graffiti-covered barriers. Turn around, and the sea is right there, perfect for snapping fresh, whimsical photos. Every detail exudes childlike wonder, making you feel like you're in a fairy tale.
At night, the village transforms with neon lights, retro vibes, and creative markets. Its lively beauty is captivating, and every photo is share-worthy on social media.
Of course, as a fishing village, seafood feasts are a must. After exploring, head to the seafood street where fresh catches will delight your taste buds with unforgettable flavors.
⛺Xiandieyan:
💴Admission: ¥50
🏨Address: Dong'ao Village, Dongping Street, Dongtou District
Just 2.7 km from downtown Dongtou, this 1.71 sq km area is the largest scenic spot in Dongtou, featuring over 30 attractions, including Xiandieyan Rock Viewing Area, Nanpaotai Shooting Range, and Dashao Beach.
Here, towering rocks stack precariously, creating awe-inspiring formations. Whether listening to waves, gazing at the sea, or admiring the stones, the views are unparalleled. Legend says these rocks were stacked by immortals, hence the name "Xiandieyan" (Immortal Stacked Rocks).
On the beach, massive natural rock formations resemble art—some shaped like immortals, Guanyin worshipping, zodiac animals, or fairies carrying children—standing in the sea as if telling ancient tales. Climb to the lakeside platform to watch tides surge, making the platform seem to sway. Below, the Gulang Cave echoes with thunderous waves.
Layered and unique, Xiandieyan is dubbed the "Marine Bonsai Garden" for its breathtaking beauty.
⛺Banping Mountain:
💴Admission: ¥30
🏨Address: Banping Island, Dongping Street, Dongtou District
A folk rhyme says, "Banping Mountain, half in Taiwan, half on the mainland." The west side has fishing ports and villages, while the east features sheer cliffs as if split by an axe. Now connected to Dongtou Pier by a dam, its kilometers-long natural rock carvings are hailed as "China's First Marine Screen."
⛺Moon Embankment:
💴Admission: Free
🏨Address: Banping Island, Dongping Street, Dongtou District
A viral spot, this 500-meter embankment extends into the sea, lined with white castles, "Love Net," and "Moon Over the Sea" installations. Painted pathways add romance, blending with the blue ocean. The lighthouse merges with the beach, offering dreamy sunset views.
🧡DAY 2: Wanghai Tower - Zhongyu "Little Erhai" - Yuanjue "Little Rome"
⛺Wanghai Tower:
💴Admission: ¥30
🏨Address: Dongjiao Village, Beiao Street, Dongtou District
Perched at 227 meters, this south-facing tower is Dongtou's highest cultural landmark, offering panoramic views of bridges, islands, and the archipelago. Built 1,500 years ago during the Southern Dynasties, it was later celebrated by Tang poet Zhang Youxin. The current structure, designed after the Qing style, echoes its storied past.
⛺Zhongyu "Little Erhai":
💴Admission: Free
🏨Address: Shajiao Village, Yuanjue Street, Dongtou District
A 10-minute drive from town, this 1,000-meter wave-break dyke is dotted with photo props—white tables, staircases, and colorful signs—against Dongtou's bluest waters. The sky-mirror effect creates pure, luminous seascapes.
⛺Yuanjue "Little Rome":
💴Admission: Free
🏨Address: Shagang Village, Yuanjue Street, Dongtou District
Near Yuanjue Police Station, this unfinished B&B-turned-instagram spot features red-brick towers and a green plant maze, evoking Roman nostalgia and artistic charm.
Dongtou—endless ocean vistas and unique fishing culture. Will you come?
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