Top things to do in a Fujian Trip

Fujian, a treasure trove where mountains meet the sea, is a province rich in both historical heritage and breathtaking natural scenery. From towering mountain ranges to hidden island paradises, from ancient alleyways to modern cities, every corner of Fujian radiates its own unique charm. Following are the best things to do in Fujian.

Top 1: Have a Citywalk among Fuzhou

Wandering aimlessly through the city, measuring its vein step by step, immersing yourself in its textures, and experiencing its unique local charm. No need to care about the destination or purpose of the journey, just let the surprises of the city unfold at an unhurried pace.

Stroll through the Three Lanes and Seven Alleys, pause for a photo by the heart-shape banyan tree on Nanhou Street, and feel the tenderness and affection the banyan trees bring to Fuzhou. White walls and black tiles, weathered by time; saddle-shaped walls stand tall and proud—scattered in harmony, exuding an abundance of ancient charm. Meander onward to the Wushan area, explore ancient pavilions and rugged stones, and discover the poetry and inscriptions left by ancient scholars and officials during their scenic climbs.

At Shangxiahang, step into a black-awning boat moored along the river. The boat gently rocks as it drifts forward, the sound of the oars blending with the splashing waves. Along the banks, aged white walls and gray-tiled roofs pass by in view. As you float from Shangxiahang to Sanjie River, history and romance ripple around you, capturing the softness of Jiangnan.

Follow Jiefang Bridge onward, and the Yantaishan commercial walking district emerges gradually, its layers built into the hillside. Chic general stores, cozy cafés, and stylish boutiques fill the air with a sense of vibrancy and fashion. As you head uphill, you’ll find Western-style buildings scattered throughout, each twist and turn reveals a new surprise waiting just around the corner.

Winding through Fuzhou’s alleys and streets, visiting historic residences, enjoying cultural sights, and tasting distinctive local snacks, you’ll feel the hustle and bustle of the city. Embark on a spontaneous citywalk, and encounter the romance of Fuzhou.

Top 2: Cycle along the Huandao Road

Blue skies, emerald seas, swaying coconut trees, and soft sandy beaches, how could one visit Xiamen, Fujian without cycling along the Island Ring Road? Built along the coastline, this scenic route, also called Huandao Road stretches from Xiamen University to the International Conference and Exhibition Center, known as the “Golden Coastal Line”. On what’s hailed as one of the most beautiful marathon tracks in the world, gather a few friends and ride together, basking in the sea breeze, enjoying the music, and reveling in the freedom of the coast, which is a truly romantic and poetic experience.

The entire Island Ring Road, whether hugging mountains and skirting the sea, spanning bridges over the ocean, or tunneling through hills, reveals unique and captivating scenery at every turn. Along the way, it links iconic spots such as Hulishan Cannon Fort, Calligraphy Square, Music Plaza, Xiamen University, and the International Convention Center, together with the sea, beaches, and palm groves, creating a fascinating southern coastal landscape. As you cycle along this romantic coast, sometimes diving with the wind, sometimes pushing uphill with great effort, you’re immersed in the sea breeze and stunning vistas, letting all of life’s worries drift away in the rhythm of the waves and wind.

Xiamen is also home to an aerial bike path, China’s first and the world’s longest elevated bike lane, stretching 7.6 kilometers. Suspended beneath the city’s BRT bridge, it’s sheltered from sun and rain. While it may not offer the sweeping sea views of the Island Ring Road, cycling through the sky above the city is an exhilarating experience unlike anything found in other cities in China.

Top 3: Bamboo Raft on the Jiuqu River

In Wuyi Mountain, peaks and cliffs of crisscross, with secluded valleys stretching endlessly, as the meandering Jiuqu River winds its way through the landscape like a jade ribbon strung with pearls, linking the unique rock formations and majestic peaks into a breathtaking scroll of natural beauty. Drifting downstream on a bamboo raft, accompanied by gentle breezes and the murmuring of clear waters, the natural landscape unfolds like a living ink painting. Here, the noise of the city fades away, replaced by the purest sounds of nature, babbling streams, chirping birds, and the whisper of wind through bamboo groves. Immersed in this setting, it feels as though you’ve stepped into a forgotten corner of time, where all worries are left behind.

As the bamboo raft glides forward, the stream bends and the mountains shift; each curve reveals new and distinct scenery, full of poetic charm. The water is crystal clear and emerald green, with pebbles resting quietly at the bottom. Lush bamboo forests line the banks, egrets glide low over the surface, and red-eyed fish frolic in the shallows. Toss a few bread crumbs into the stream and the fish swarm to feed, sending ripples dancing across the water. Looking down is the clarity of the stream, while raise your gaze are the peaks towering above. From the riverbank, sheer cliffs rise dramatically into the sky, surrounded by the red rocks and cliffs. Stone solumns shine with a smooth, jade-like luster as if sculpted by nature’s hand. In such a landscape, drifting along the river makes you feel not like a visitor, but as if you are one with the mountains and waters themselves.

Top 4: Watch a Sunset at Pingtan Island

Pingtan boasts the clearest and bluest sea in all of Fujian, with a long, winding coastline and soft, delicate sand. The coastal roads rivaling those of Kenting, the fairytale-like fishing villages, and the white windmills silhouetted against the sunset, fulfills every romantic vision of island.

You must set foot in Pingtan to witness its dreamlike and breathtaking sunsets—a coastal spectacle unique to this island city. At Changjiang'ao Beach, one of the world’s three major draught, rows of windmills stand silently by the sea. As the sun sets, golden light spills across the ocean, the sky turns a warm tangerine hue, and the windmills begin to sway in the fading glow, like a scene from a Monet painting. Walking along the beach, watching the silhouettes of windmills against the gilded horizon, you’ll find yourself wrapped in a golden embrace. Close your eyes, feel the sea breeze brushing your face, and allow your body and mind to fully relax.

If you're lucky, you might encounter with the romantic “Blue Tears”. Between March and August each year, as night falls, marine microorganisms dance on the ocean surface, casting a glowing blue light across the shoreline. The coast shimmers in vibrant blue, rising and falling with the waves like countless stars falling into the sea—a dreamlike vision as if stepping into a midsummer night’s fairytale. Walking barefoot on the soft sand, fluorescent rings ripple out beneath your feet, drawing you into this mesmerizing sea of light.

Top 5: Try the Zhonggu Cableway Once

The Zhonggu Cableway is a corridor of time suspended in the skies above Xiamen Island. Stretching over 1,000 meters, it is not only the island city's only aerial sightseeing ride in motion, but also an exceptional choice to take in the cityscape and natural beauty from above. This kilometer-long rainbow, linking Wanshi Mountain to South Putuo Temple, with a “God’s-eye view” of Xiamen’s mountains, sea, and city, distills the island’s essence into a flowing poetic journey in a leisurely 40-minute ride.

As the orange-red cable car glides from the concrete forest toward the blue bay, you suddenly realize that this is not just a mode of transport but the aerial key to decoding the magic of Xiamen. To the east, egrets dance over Yundang Lake; to the west, the red rooftops of Gulangyu float on a jade; to the south, the Twin Towers pierce the clouds; and to the north, the cactus in Xiamen Botanic Garden arrange into a square array. In the distance, the Haicang Bridge hangs across the sky like a rainbow, with cars on it appearing no larger than ants. Board the cableway at sunset, and you'll witness the molten-gold sunset sinking into the sea, as the traffic on Yanwu Bridge and the returning boats on the water together weave a tapestry of light. As night falls, lights across the city begin to flicker on one by one, forming a glittering river of stars. Nighttime turns the city into a massive screen, playing a mesmerizing symphony of light and shadow.

Top 6: Cruise on the Min River at Night

The Min River, the mother river of Fuzhou, Fujian, carries with its vast water system the city’s millennia of historical changes. By night, it transforms into a dazzling ribbon, weaving through the city’s neon-lit landscape and shimmering with enchanting brilliance. At the Heart of Min River, with dazzling lights and flowing colors, the river, bridges, boats, and high-rises together create a beautiful urban canvas.

The Minjiang River cruise, which combines rest and sightseeing, is moored at the Taijiang Wharf. During the journey, passengers can admire the Min River Bridge and Jiefang Bridge spanning the water, the European-style architecture of Zhongzhou Island, the dazzling Haixi 3D light show, and more. As you board, your view suddenly opens up. Standing on the open-air deck, a gentle breeze brushes your face, bringing a refreshing coolness that sweeps away the day’s fatigue. As the boat glides slowly along the river, the lights along both banks come to life one by one, unfolding like a moving painting of light and shadow. Brilliant lights outline the city skyline, colorful light bands decorate the bridges, and dreamlike reflections ripple across the water’s surface. With The Gothic spires of Fanchuanpu Catholic Church looming faintly in the night, the stained glass windows shimmer with a kaleidoscope of colors under the glow of light. At Heart of Min River, crowds bustle with life, while musical fountains dance to the rhythm, synchronized with the surrounding lights.

Top 7: Pilgrimage to Mazu of Meizhou

On the shores of the East China Sea lies a fairy-tale island known as Meizhou Island, often hailed as the “Penglai of the South”, a land favored by the divine. It is the birthplace of Mazu culture and the spiritual center for Mazu believers around the world. At the heart of the island stands the Mazu Temple, revered as a sacred pilgrimage site and affectionately called the “Maritime Potala Palace”.

Each year, grand ceremonies are held on the island to commemorate Mazu's birthday and her ascension day. The island is adorned with lanterns and banners, and the sound of drums and gongs fills the air as thousands of devotees and visitors gather to participate in rituals and processions that sweep across the entire island, a magnificent spectacle.

With reverence in your heart, you pass through the Sacred Decree Gate and the Bell and Drum Tower, arriving at the main hall. Before the golden, radiant statue of Mazu, you offer sincere prayers for peace and blessings. Ascend to the highest point of the ancestral temple, you are greeted by a giant stone statue of Mazu gazing toward Taiwan, lifelike and awe-inspiring. Looking down over Meizhou Island, with its white walls and red tiles nestled among the verdant hills, a profound sense of serenity washes over you.

Top 8: Beachcomb at Xiamen Beaches

When speaking of Xiamen Island, the sea is never far from mind. Residents who rely on the ocean for their livelihood have learned to follow the rhythms of the tides. When the tide recedes, they seize the opportunity to forage along the exposed beaches and rocky shores for marine treasures. Clams, sea crabs, mantis shrimp… every low tide draws out a bustling “beachcombing army”, with many achieving “seafood freedom” right on the shore.

Among the best places for this coastal adventure, Guanyinshan Beach stands out. It is not only a popular tourist destination but also a sacred spot for beachcombing enthusiasts. With its long coastline, soft sandy beaches, and views across the sea to Kinmen Island, the location is simply unmatched. Whether camping, watching the sunrise, or listening to the soothing sound of waves, it's a blissful experience.

Equipped with your tools, combing the beach can lead to delightful surprises. Digging up clams is just the beginning, because those seasoned “tide chasers” often fill their buckets with stone crabs, spotted conchs, octopuses, and more. Beyond the joy of experiencing a fisherman's life, whatever seafood you collect can be cooked on-site or packed up to take home, making a truly rewarding harvest.

Top 9: Soak in a Hot Spring in Fuzhou

The hot springs surge from the three mountains, blessing the homeland of banyan trees, Fuzhou. Fuzhou is known as the “Hot Spring Capital of China” like Chongqing. The city’s hot springs are renowned for their high temperatures, abundant flow, pure water quality, and rich mineral content. Not only do they relieve physical and mental fatigue, but they also promote health and beautify skin. With a long history of hot spring culture, Fuzhou had more than 40 hot spring bathhouses as early as the Tang Dynasty. Locals have long embraced the benefits of soaking in hot springs, making it a part of daily life.

If you’re looking to enjoy a soak within the city, Yuanmai Hot Spring in Gulou District is a great choice. Surrounded by lush greenery, as far as your eyes reach are the Fuzhou's ancient dwellings with signature swallowtail roofs, with gray bricks and white walls nestling among verdant trees. Soaking in the warm waters, listening to the wind rustling the treetops, and watching shadows dance along curved eaves, you’ll be enveloped by the steamy aroma of the spring, sweating away stress and embracing serenity in this blessed city. In addition to natural spring pools, guests can also enjoy scented hot spring like jasmine, lavender, and rose, with fragrant steam enhancing the indulgent experience.

Top 10: Take Photos at Xiapu Tidal Flat

Xiapu, located in Ningde City, has a history of over 1,700 years. It is the oldest county in eastern Fujian and the cultural center of the region, ranked by numerous media outlets as the top destination among “China’s Ten Most Beautiful Photography Spots”.

The greatest charm of photography in Xiapu lies in its mudflats, which iswidely regarded as the most beautiful tidal flats in China. The ever-changing tides, shifting light and clouds, the mysterious silhouettes of fishing poles in the South China Sea, and the dreamlike colors create a surreal and stunning seascape that captivates countless photography enthusiasts.

In Xiahao Village, the ebb and flow of the tides carve ever-changing patterns into the sand, appearing colorful under varying light. In Beiqi Village, winding waterways etch intricate textures into the flats, which glow like tiger stripes under the setting sun. In Weijiang Village, with the fiery sunrise rays and mysterious sunset glows at Mantou Hill, and ethereal reflections of the sky and clouds, enveloping the endless wetlands in a seductive light. From the heights of Huazhu Village, the view unfolds in layers—buoys and bamboo poles in the foreground, fish farms and stilted huts in the middle, and islands and sailboats in the distant background, all arranged in perfect harmony.