The 10-Second Plunge That Will Change How You See China’s Coast
At the southeastern tip of Pingtan Island, where the Taiwan Strait’s turquoise waters collide with volcanic cliffs, locals have practiced a death-defying ritual for generations: leaping from Monkey Mountain’s granite ledges into the swirling depths below. This isn’t some tourist trap – it’s a rite of passage where the ocean decides if you’re worthy. After taking the plunge myself (and living to tell the tale), here’s everything you need to know.
Finding the Jump Zones
Monkey Mountain hides three key launch points, invisible from any trail:
- The Cub’s Leap (5m)
- GPS: 25.5123° N, 119.7872° E
- Best for beginners, with a deep pool free of rocks
- The Monkey King’s Challenge (8m)
- Landmark: Look for the boulder shaped like a crouching ape
- Requires precise takeoff to avoid underwater shelf
-
The Dragon’s Dive (12m)
- Access: Swim from Cub’s Leap around the eastern bluff
- Only attempt at high tide (water depth drops 4m at low tide)
- Access: Swim from Cub’s Leap around the eastern bluff
Pro Tip: Local fishermen mark safe zones with red paint dots on the cliffs – jump between them.
When to Go
- Tides: 1 hour before high tide = smoothest entry
- Season: May-October (water temps above 22°C)
- Time: 9-11 AM (before afternoon winds churn currents)
The Local Legend
Old Lin (72), who’s jumped daily since 1968, swears the cliffs are guarded by the Monkey King: “Miss your mark, and he’ll drag you down to his underwater palace. Hit it right, and he gifts you courage.” This explains the tradition of leaving one piece of fruit on the launch rock.
Survival Gear
- Water shoes (barnacles cut like razors)
- Tide chart printout (cell service dies here)
The Hidden Exit
Most tourists exhaust themselves trying to climb the cliffs. Locals use:
- A submerged rope ladder tied to the eastern wall
- Or swim 50m north to Sea Dragon Cave’s natural steps
Warning: Avoid the western channel – its whirlpools have trapped 3 divers since 2020.
