Shantou Lotus Peak Scenic Area

Shantou Lotus Peak Scenic Area

Shantou Lotus Peak Scenic Area is a national AAA-level tourist attraction.

Shantou Lotus Peak is situated in Haimen Town, Chaoyang District. Nestled by Haimen Bay, the peak offers sweeping views of the entire South China Sea from its heights. Legend says that Wen Tianxiang, upon seeing rocks resembling a blossoming lotus, named it “Lotus Peak.” The site is steeped in history, and thanks to its exceptional geographical and geological features, it features a multitude of attractions including the Mass Tomb, Zhongnan Rock, Zhongxian Shrine, Ancient Fort, Qiquan Well, and Wangfu Rock, as well as countless inscriptions and calligraphic works by notable figures.

The long coastline at the foot of Lotus Peak features clear waters and white sands. In summer, visitors can enjoy playing in the surf for a unique experience. During the right season, one can also admire the spectacular Eight Sea Views of Lotus Peak, such as the majestic sea mist at dawn in spring — each a breathtaking natural wonder.

Haimen Lotus Peak is located on the coast of Haimen, approximately 10 kilometers from the county seat of Chaoyang. Viewed from the sea, the lush small mountain range is crowned by a formation that looks like a large, blooming lotus. It is composed of closely clustered granite rocks split vertically into five petals, making it a rare coastal marvel — hence its name. It is a tourist destination that combines both natural and cultural landscapes. Around Lotus Peak, there is a natural bathing beach, sightseeing boat tours that offer marine views of the peak, and attractions such as Three Generals Rock and Wangfu Rock. There are also numerous stone inscriptions by famous individuals, including the cursive character “Tiger” by Black Flag Army general Liu Yongfu, as well as calligraphy by Yu Youren and Liu Haisu. The modern writer Lao She once wrote a poem here: “From afar I pity the loyal lord who stood atop this peak, where dark waters and cold clouds veiled the imperial boat; today red flags shine bright over blue seas, as China’s children strive in glory.”

This natural wonder is intertwined with the legacy of a hero, making the place renowned through the man, and the man remembered through the place. Lotus Peak has grown increasingly famous over time. In the late Southern Song Dynasty, when the Yuan army invaded and the Song court retreated southward, Wen Tianxiang arrived in Chaoyang in 1278 to resist the Yuan forces. By then, the Song emperor had fled by boat to Yamen in Xinhui. Wen Tianxiang climbed Lotus Peak in Haimen, searching for the imperial vessel but finding none. Overcome with grief, he stamped his foot so hard that the rock cracked into the shape of a lotus. He also carved the characters “Zhongnan” (meaning “Southward no more”) into the peak, symbolizing that this was the southernmost point of retreat. At noon, he deliberately altered the character “南” (south), changing its central element to resemble the character for “noon” (午), to mark the time he gazed southward for the emperor. This treasured calligraphy, together with the beautiful Lotus Peak, embodies the deep reverence people hold for this national hero. Later generations built a memorial hall and statue for Wen Tianxiang here, and established the Lianfeng Academy to promote patriotic education. The area around Lotus Peak also features a natural bathing beach and special boat tours that take visitors out to sea for the best views of the peak.

Address: Shantou Lotus Peak Scenic Area, Haimen Town, Chaoyang District, Shantou City

Type: Geological Landform / Mountain / Historical Site

Recommended Visiting Time: About 3 hours

Tel: 0754-86632419

Opening Hours:

7:00-18:00

Ticket Information:

Gate Price: 20.0 RMB