Fujian is a southeastern Chinese province known for its mountains and coastal cities. In Xiamen, a port town and former foreign concession, the island of Gulangyu has pedestrianized streets and 19th-century colonial villas. Fuzhou, the provincial capital, is a transportation hub for destinations such as the city of Quanzhou. Once visited by Marco Polo, it offers temples, an old-town district and a Maritime Museum.
Top Attractions:
- Mount Wuyi (Wuyishan): Designated as both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a UNESCO Global Geopark, Mount Wuyi is famous for its dramatic cliffs, deep gorges, winding rivers, and lush forests. Visitors can explore the mountains via hiking trails, scenic boat rides along the Nine Bend River, and visits to ancient temples and tea plantations.
- Gulangyu Island (Xiamen): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gulangyu Island is known for its colonial architecture, scenic beaches, and pedestrian-friendly streets. Highlights include Shuzhuang Garden, Sunlight Rock, and the Piano Museum.
- Three Lanes and Seven Alleys (Sanfang Qixiang): Located in Fuzhou, this historic district is renowned for its well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, narrow lanes, and traditional courtyard houses. It's a popular destination for exploring local culture, arts, and crafts.
- Tulou (Earthen Buildings): Scattered throughout Fujian's countryside, Tulou are traditional circular or rectangular earthen buildings built by the Hakka people. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites are known for their unique architecture, communal living spaces, and cultural significance.
- Nanputuo Temple (Xiamen): Situated at the foot of Wulao Peak, Nanputuo Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple dating back over a thousand years. It features ornate architecture, beautiful gardens, and impressive statues.
- Yongding Hakka Tulou Cluster: Located in Longyan, the Yongding Hakka Tulou Cluster is one of the most well-preserved and largest concentrations of Tulou in Fujian. Visitors can explore these unique earthen buildings and learn about Hakka culture and history.
Top Things to Do:
- Tea Tasting and Tea Culture: Experience Fujian's rich tea culture by visiting tea plantations, participating in tea tastings, and learning about tea cultivation and processing. Fujian is famous for its oolong teas, such as Tieguanyin and Da Hong Pao.
- Hiking and Nature Exploration: Explore the scenic beauty of Fujian's mountains, forests, and national parks through hiking, nature walks, and outdoor adventures. Mount Wuyi, Taimu Mountain, and Fujian Tulou Scenic Area offer opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in nature.
- Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in Fujian's rich cultural heritage by attending traditional festivals, visiting historic temples and villages, and experiencing local customs and traditions. Don't miss the opportunity to witness traditional performances such as Chinese opera and puppet shows.
- Culinary Delights: Sample Fujian's diverse cuisine, which features fresh seafood, noodle dishes, and local specialties such as Min cuisine and Hokkien cuisine. Explore traditional food markets, street food stalls, and local restaurants to savor authentic flavors.
- Photography: Capture the beauty of Fujian's landscapes, ancient architecture, and cultural heritage through photography. From mist-shrouded mountains to ancient villages and vibrant street scenes, Fujian offers endless opportunities for stunning photographs.