Stop wandering aimlessly! The super detailed travel guide to Xiapu is here
Dear friends, the most frustrating thing about traveling is not researching in advance, ending up clueless at the destination, unable to enjoy the trip, and spending a lot of money! Xiapu is such a treasure trove of a travel destination—if you don’t prepare well, you’ll really miss out! This comprehensive guide will solve all your problems in one go!
🌅 Popular Attractions
1. Beiqi Tidal Flats: Known as "China’s Most Beautiful Tidal Flats," at sunrise, golden sunlight shines on the tidal flats, sparkling waves shimmer, and the seaweed farming racks are neatly arranged, creating a unique linear beauty. The best time to visit is at sunrise. Be sure to check the tide schedule in advance and go according to the tide times. Early mornings after rain offer the best photo opportunities! Admission: Free Opening Hours: All day Photo spots: Viewing platform with an overhead view of the S-shaped seaweed racks.
2. Dongbi Village: An excellent spot to watch the sunset, with colorful houses nestled by the mountains and sea in an orderly fashion. At dusk, the sunset bathes the entire village in golden light, contrasting beautifully with the deep blue sea. Admission: Free Opening Hours: All day Photo spots: The seaside boardwalk in the village and the rooftops of seaside guesthouses both offer stunning sunset views.
3. Sijiao Archipelago: Known as the "Real-life Zelda," this group of islands features crystal-clear waters, uniquely shaped reefs, wildflowers covering the hills, and flocks of seagulls soaring in the sky. Admission: No ticket required, but boat tickets must be purchased Opening Hours: Boats usually depart daily at 9:00 AM (subject to actual schedule) Photo spots: Cliffs on Dongjiao Island, beaches on Nanjiao Island, and Bird Island for seabirds. Transportation: Take a boat from Jishi Pier; the boat ride takes about 1.5 hours.
4. Yangjiaxi: Known as the "Sea Country Peach Blossom Land" and "Little Wuyi of Eastern Fujian," it features ancient banyan tree groves and pure maple forests. In the early morning, sunlight filters through the leaves creating a beautiful Tyndall effect. Old farmers herding cattle by the creek add a pastoral charm. Admission: 40 RMB Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Photo spots: Ancient banyan tree area with a special spot to photograph the old farmer and cattle; a 20 RMB fee per person applies (includes props for posing).
5. Banyueli She Ethnic Ancient Village: A well-preserved She ethnic minority village with over 300 years of history. Ancient houses, ancestral halls, and temples are arranged harmoniously. You can also experience She culture and traditional costumes. Admission: 39 RMB for historical and cultural sites; 36 RMB for She ethnic performance; 60 RMB combo ticket (includes sightseeing and performance) Opening Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Photo spots: In front of ancient houses, at the entrance of ancestral halls, and strolling around the village wearing She phoenix costumes for photos.
🏠 Accommodation Guide
• County Town: Many lodging options, convenient transportation and dining, and affordable prices, suitable for budget travelers. Recommended hotel: Bai Yulan Hotel, with a prime location and easy access.
• Dongbi Village: If you want to see stunning sunsets, stay here! Many seaside guesthouses, some with popular cliffside pools. For example, Shijianhai Guesthouse offers an excellent location and great stay experience, though prices are relatively high.
• Sansha Town: Close to various attractions with many dining options. The town has many cost-effective hotels and inns to choose from.
🚗 Transportation
• External Transport: You can take the high-speed train directly to Xiapu Station, convenient from Fuzhou, Xiamen, and other places; or fly to Fuzhou Changle International Airport and then transfer by train or bus to Xiapu.
• Internal Transport: Attractions are scattered, so renting a car with a driver is recommended, costing 400-600 RMB/day, allowing flexible itinerary planning; you can also rent electric scooters but pay attention to battery range—choose models with over 80 km range; some attractions have buses but with infrequent service and longer travel times.
🍱 Food Recommendations
• Taikang Road Food Street: The concentrated area for Xiapu cuisine, with a wide variety of seafood at affordable prices. Recommended dishes: razor clams, small sea snails, Minnan-style porridge, and sour and spicy sea anemone soup (a local hidden favorite).
• Fuding Pork Slices: Tender meat with a sour and spicy flavor, a common street snack in Xiapu.
• Sweet Potato Cups: Made from glutinous rice and sweet potato, soft and sweet in taste.
• Sansha Snacks: Various specialty pastries and seafood pancakes worth trying.
❌ Pitfall Avoidance Tips
• Always check the tide schedule in advance; tides greatly affect the tidal flat scenery, and many beautiful views disappear at high tide!
• May to September is the fishing ban season; seafood prices rise and varieties are fewer.
• If not self-driving, be cautious about choosing remote guesthouses as transportation can be inconvenient.
• Photography groups often rush to secure spots as early as 4 AM; if you want to avoid the rush, consider visiting during off-peak times.
📌 Travel Tips
• Xiapu is quite humid, with afternoon showers common; remember to carry an umbrella and sun protection clothing.
• When going to the beach, wear non-slip sandals for convenience; bring long-sleeve quick-dry shirts for sun protection and to handle temperature changes in the morning and evening.
• Photography enthusiasts, remember to bring a telephoto lens for tidal flat shots; drone flights over Nanwan Oracle Bone inscriptions require prior approval.
Friends, quickly save this guide and start a romantic seaside journey in Xiapu! 💕