Fuzhou Three Lanes and Seven Alleys, Xiamen Gulangyu Island, experience the unique charm of Fujian
Fujian 9-city travel guide, unlocking the treasure of Fujian
Fujian is like a treasure land favored by mountains and seas, with each city having its own unique charm. Following the coastline from north to south and then venturing inland, the scenery is picturesque and the culture rich, guaranteed to make you linger. Here is a travel guide for nine cities in Fujian.
1. Fuzhou: As the capital of Fujian, Fuzhou is a cultural city with over 2,200 years of history. Stepping into Three Lanes and Seven Alleys is like stepping into the river of history. The layout of the lanes and alleys has basically remained unchanged since the Jin and Tang dynasties. Walking through, you can see the former residences of famous figures such as Yan Fu, Lin Zexu, and Bing Xin, feeling a strong cultural atmosphere. You can also visit Fudao, the only steel-frame hollow city forest walkway in the country, where you can enjoy the beautiful city mountain forest scenery. Climb Gushan Mountain to overlook the Min River, visit Xichan Temple to feel the tranquility of the ancient temple, and at night, go to Shangxiahang to taste Fuzhou specialties like fish balls and meat swallow, experiencing the lively atmosphere of old Fuzhou.
2. Xiamen: Xiamen is a seaside city full of artistic atmosphere. On Gulangyu Island, buildings of various international styles are scattered, and walking through the alleys, you can hear melodious piano music everywhere. Climb Sunlight Rock to take in the beautiful scenery of Xiamen. Xiamen University is known as one of the most beautiful universities in China, with the shimmering Furong Lake and elegant black swans swimming, and the Furong Tunnel full of youthful graffiti. Cycling along Huandao Road, enjoy the blue sky, white clouds, sea, and beach, feel the gentle sea breeze, and taste Minnan specialties like satay noodles, oyster omelet, and local jelly in food streets such as Zengcuoan and Shapowei.
3. Zhangzhou: Zhangzhou is one of the birthplaces of Minnan culture. Visit the Nanjing Tulou and Hua'an Tulou to experience the unique charm of Hakka Tulou architecture. The "Four Dishes and One Soup" shape of the Tianluokeng Tulou cluster is unique and amazing. Stroll through Yunshuiyao Ancient Town, along the pebble stone paths by the creek, seeing century-old banyan trees and ancient Tulou, as if traveling back in time. In Zhangzhou Ancient City, wander the old streets, try specialties like oyster omelet and braised noodles, and feel the leisure and comfort of this city.
4. Quanzhou: As the starting point of the Maritime Silk Road, Quanzhou is a historic and cultural city known as the "World Religious Museum." At Kaiyuan Temple, admire the exquisite East and West pagodas and the ancient Bodhi tree inside the temple, feeling the solemnity of this thousand-year-old temple. Walk into West Street to taste delicacies like misua (thin noodles), meat zongzi, and fried vinegar pork, experiencing the life atmosphere of old Quanzhou. You can also visit Xunpu Village to experience the unique Zanhuawei culture and be a beautiful Xunpu woman for a day.
5. Sanming: Sanming’s Taining Dajin Lake is a world geopark, featuring Danxia landform landscapes, granite landforms, and cultural sights. Take a boat tour on Dajin Lake to enjoy the beautiful red cliffs and strange peaks on both sides, and visit Ganlu Temple to appreciate ancient architectural wisdom. Visit Yong’an Taoyuandong, where the "One Line Sky" is known as the "nation’s best," narrow and steep, full of challenge.
6. Putian: Putian is the hometown of Mazu, and Meizhou Island is the birthplace of Mazu culture. Step onto Meizhou Island to visit the Mazu Ancestral Temple, feeling the sacredness and solemnity of Mazu faith, stroll on the beach, and enjoy the beautiful sea view. In Putian city, explore the Xinghua Prefecture historical and cultural district and taste Putian specialties like Putian braised noodles and spicy meat.
7. Nanping: Nanping’s Wuyi Mountain is a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage site. Take a bamboo raft down the Nine-bend Creek, admiring the strange peaks and rocks on both sides, as if traveling inside a painting. Climb Tianyou Peak to overlook the magnificent scenery of Wuyi Mountain. You can also visit the Dahongpao scenic area to learn about the history and culture of Dahongpao tea and taste authentic Wuyi rock tea.
8. Longyan: Longyan’s Gutian Conference Site is a red tourism destination where you can commemorate revolutionary pioneers and feel the red culture. Yongding Tulou is an important part of Fujian Tulou. Zhencheng Lou is known as the "Prince of Tulou," with a unique architectural style and complete facilities, showcasing the wisdom and creativity of the Hakka people.
9. Ningde: Ningde’s Taimu Mountain is a national 5A-level scenic area, famous for its "dangerous peaks, strange stones, secluded caves, and magical mist." Climb Taimu Mountain to admire the strange peaks and rocks, wander through caves, and feel the wonders of nature. Xiapu is a paradise for photography enthusiasts, with stunning tidal flat scenery that changes colors and textures at different times and lighting, making every shot a masterpiece.
Fujian’s nine cities each have their own unique charm. Whether you love history and culture, natural scenery, or delicious snacks, you can find your own joy here. Pack your bags and start an unforgettable journey in Fujian!