The park is home to 49 animal species under state protection, including the South Chinese tiger (though extremely rare), clouded leopard, and Chinese giant salamander. The area supports over 250 bird species, making it an important bird watching destination. Notable species include the yellow-throated laughingthrush and the short-tailed parrotbill. The park also harbors numerous endemic insects and amphibians, with new species still being discovered regularly.
Wuyi Mountains harbor one of the largest, most biodiverse subtropical forests in southeastern China, with over 2,800 plant species identified. The area serves as a refuge for numerous ancient plant species, including many that survived the ice age. Notable species include the rare Ginkgo biloba, Chinese cedar, and various endemic orchids. The region is also famous for its tea plantations, particularly those producing the prestigious Da Hong Pao oolong tea, which grows on the rocky cliffs of the mountains.
The park's distinctive landscape was formed over millions of years through tectonic activity and erosion. The mountains are primarily composed of red sandstone and limestone, creating dramatic peaks, deep gorges, and extensive cave systems. The most notable geological features are the danxia landforms - red bed landscapes created through the erosion of red sandstone and characterized by steep cliffs and unusual rock formations. The Nine-Bend River (Jiuqu Xi) has carved through the mountains, creating spectacular valleys and contributing to the area's unique topography.
Wuyi Mountains have been a significant cultural and historical site for over 2,000 years. The area was first settled during the Neolithic period and later became an important center for Taoism and Buddhism. During the Tang and Song dynasties (7th-13th centuries), it emerged as a premier tea-producing region, famous for its Da Hong Pao tea. The region was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 for both its cultural and natural significance, particularly noting its ancient archaeological remains, including the Han Dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE) city of Chengcun and numerous temples and monasteries.
Key attractions include the Nine-Bend River, offering spectacular bamboo raft trips through gorges; the Water Curtain Cave, a significant Taoist site; and the ancient tea terraces producing world-renowned Da Hong Pao tea. The 'Great King Peak' (Dawang Feng) stands as the highest point at 2,158 meters. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails, including the famous 'Thread of Sky' path between narrow cliff walls. The park also features ancient archaeological sites such as the Wuyi Palace, dating back to the Tang Dynasty, and numerous cliff-side coffins from the ancient Minyue people.
Wuyi Mountains experience a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Summers (June-August) are hot and humid with temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F), while winters (December-February) are cool with temperatures around 5-15°C (41-59°F). The region receives abundant rainfall, averaging 2,200mm annually, with the wettest period occurring during spring and early summer. The best time to visit is during autumn (September-November) when temperatures are moderate and rainfall is reduced, offering ideal conditions for hiking and sightseeing.
China
27.7170°, 117.6830°
1999
999.75
Wuyi Mountain is known for its spectacular landscapes of deep gorges and towering peaks. The park preserves the largest remaining subtropical forest in southeast China. It is also famous for its biodiversity and ancient cultural sites including the Nine-Bend River.