Hulishan Fortress
Hulishan Fortress, perched on Xiamen’s southern coast, is a 19th-century military marvel that once guarded China’s seas against foreign invaders. Built in 1891 during the Qing Dynasty, this coastal bastion houses the world’s largest surviving 19th-century coastal cannon—a 280mm Krupp gun. Now a museum and UNESCO-recognized heritage site, it blends military history with panoramic ocean vistas, offering cannon demonstrations, underground tunnels, and a fascinating glimpse into China’s late imperial defenses.
Historical Overview
Construction began in 1891 under Emperor Guangxu, part of China’s desperate “Self-Strengthening Movement” to modernize its navy. The fortress withstood the 1900 Boxer Rebellion and saw action in the 1937–1938 Battle of Xiamen against Japanese forces. Post-1949, it served as a PLA naval base before opening to the public in 1984. Key milestones include the 2000 discovery of its Krupp cannon’s blueprint in a German archive and its 2017 listing as a “National Defense Education Base.”
Structural Layout
The fortress spans 7.6 hectares, divided into:
1. Upper Battery: The iconic Krupp cannon emplacement with 360-degree ocean views.
2. Lower Battery: Ammunition depots, soldier barracks, and a restored 1920s command post.
3. Underground Maze: A 500m network of tunnels linking gunpowder magazines and living quarters.
4. Coastal Walls: 1.5km of granite fortifications with 12 embrasures for artillery.
Key structures include the Martyr’s Memorial, the Military Museum, and the “Eye of Xiamen” lookout point.
Major Attractions
Krupp Cannon: The 71-ton German-made giant, capable of firing 225kg shells 16km.
Underground Tunnels: Explore candlelit bunkers with wax figures of Qing soldiers.
Military Museum: Weapons from the Ming Dynasty to the Cold War, including a M1911 pistol.
Coastal Trail: A 30-minute walk to the “Eye of Xiamen” lighthouse for views of Kinmen Island.
Cannon Drill: Daily demonstrations at 10 AM and 4 PM (weather permitting).
Stele Forest: 100+ stone carvings documenting the fortress’s history.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (1.5–2 hours):
Main Gate → Krupp Cannon → Underground Tunnels → Military Museum → Coastal Trail.
Highlights: Cannon demo and ocean vistas.
- History Buff Route (3 hours):
Stele Forest → Barracks Reconstruction → 1937 Battle Exhibit → Tunnel Tour → Cannon Drill.
Highlights: In-depth military history.
- Family Adventure Route (2.5 hours):
Coastal Trail → “Eye of Xiamen” → Cannon Drill → Treasure Hunt (find 10 hidden cannons).
Highlights: Scenic walks and interactive fun.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via the official WeChat mini-program (up to 3 days in advance).
On-Site: Tickets at the entrance (cash/credit card).
- Prices:
Adults: ¥25 (peak season), ¥20 (off-season).
Students/Seniors: ¥12.50 (ID required).
Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors.
Transportation
By Bus: Routes 2, 20, 22, or 48 to “Hulishan Station.”
By Taxi: Direct to the main gate (¥15 from downtown).
By Bike: Shared bikes (HelloBike/Meituan) allowed on the coastal trail.
Parking: Free lots for private cars and tour buses.
Best Time & Tips
Peak Hours: Avoid 11 AM–2 PM; visit early (8 AM opening) or late (after 4 PM).
Crowds: Weekends and holidays are busiest; weekdays offer quieter tours.
Weather: Spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Sep–Nov) are ideal.
- Essentials:
Wear sturdy shoes (uneven stone paths).
Bring sunscreen and a hat (limited shade).
Photography allowed (no tripods in tunnels).
Pro Tip: Check the cannon demo schedule online—it sells out fast!
