Things to do in Fujian

Early autumn on Gulangyu Island in October is gentle and pleasant. An immersive stroll through the entire island, visiting numerous key attractions, offers a healing and fulfilling island journey where natural scenery, cultural heritage, and artistic atmosphere intertwine. Climbing to the summit of Sunlight Rock, the highest point on the island, is the biggest visual surprise of the trip. Ascending the steps, lush greenery and ancient stones line the path. From the top, one can overlook the red-tiled villas and winding streets of Gulangyu, surrounded by the azure sea. The cityscape of Xiamen on the opposite shore is clearly visible, a breathtaking panorama where mountains, sea, and city merge seamlessly. All the fatigue from the climb instantly disappears. Shuzhuang Garden perfectly blends the charm of Jiangnan gardens with coastal scenery. The Forty-Four Bridges, built along the sea, meander across the water. The ingenious design of the seascape is unique, offering picturesque views at every turn. The garden is tranquil and elegant, with sea breezes flowing through the corridors, showcasing the unique charm of an island garden. Adjacent to the island, Haoyue Garden stands by the sea, its majestic Zheng Chenggong statue towering above the water, exuding grandeur and combining natural seascape with a profound sense of history, creating a captivating atmosphere. The cultural experiences on this trip were particularly outstanding. The Gulangyu Palace Museum's cultural exhibition boasts exquisite collections; the quietly displayed artifacts tell stories of centuries of court exchanges, adding a rich historical dimension to the island's charm, allowing for an immersive experience of traditional culture. The most moving experience was undoubtedly the pipe organ performance; the magnificent and melodious tunes resonated throughout the retro-style venue, their rich and soothing tone providing an immersive auditory feast that perfectly embodied the artistic romance of this "Piano Island." A leisurely day trip allowed for a harmonious blend of mountain and sea scenery, classical gardens, historical artifacts, and elegant music. Gulangyu is more than just a trendy island; it's a hidden gem, brimming with local life, art, and history. Every step reveals gentle surprises and delights, making for a truly unforgettable experience.

There's no excessive commercialization, and the bamboo raft boatmen are quite interesting and don't charge extra. A special shout-out to the "One Line Sky"! Having climbed countless "One Line Skys" across the country, only this one is truly authentic!! A place where you can calmly focus on the scenery, a truly peaceful and beautiful landscape.

The 68-nautical-mile scenic area is well worth a visit. It's the closest point between mainland China and Taiwan. Be careful not to cross the yellow lines marked in the scenic area, as it can be dangerous. The staff are very responsible and will blow whistles to warn you if you cross the yellow lines. It's a great place for taking photos, and it's not too hot to walk around in the scenic area right now.

Parking at the South Gate underground parking lot is convenient; take the elevator directly to the ticket checkpoint. After entering the park, walk a few hundred meters to take the escalator directly to the South Gate viewing platform for a beautiful panoramic view of the Dadan Islands. Afterwards, you can take a sightseeing bus to the succulent plant area and the tropical rainforest; the tour isn't too tiring. The downside is that the sightseeing bus and elevator stop operating at 5:30 PM.

Visiting the Zhonggu Cableway in early October, with its clear skies and gentle breezes, offered the perfect opportunity to experience the breathtaking aerial views, far removed from the sweltering heat of midsummer. The Zhonggu Cableway traverses the Wanshi Mountain forest, and the gentle ascent in the cable car provides a unique and immersive experience, offering panoramic views of Xiamen from above. The cable car cabins are open-plan, offering unobstructed views. As the cable car slowly ascends, lush subtropical forests line both sides, their verdant foliage and fresh mountain air filling the air. With each ascent, the view gradually expands, revealing the verdant Zhonggu Mountain range nearby, and in the distance, the red-tiled roofs of Xiamen's old town, along with the high-rise buildings and the bay, unfolding in a harmonious tapestry. Reaching the highest point, one can gaze upon Gulangyu Island and the boundless sea, taking in the panoramic view of the city, mountains, and azure ocean blending seamlessly into a breathtaking panorama. The entire journey takes approximately forty minutes one way, with a smooth and leisurely ride, ideal for savoring the scenery at a leisurely pace. Along the way, you'll see towering boulders in the valleys and forest trails, with constantly changing mountain scenery from different angles. Compared to hiking, the cable car saves you the effort of climbing, yet offers a panoramic view unmatched by ordinary observation decks. The only drawback is the long queues during peak hours; it's recommended to travel during off-peak times. The cabins offer no shade, so remember to wear sunscreen when the sun is strong. Sitting in the cable car, with the mountain breeze in your ears and overlooking the entire city, you'll feel incredibly relaxed. The Zhonggu Cableway is more than just a transportation route; it's a window into the panoramic view of Xiamen's mountains and sea. Here, the wild beauty of the mountains and the coastal cityscape converge, allowing you to experience the tranquility of nature while enjoying breathtaking urban views. If you're tired of the bustling city streets, climbing here and gazing at the unique mountain and sea scenery of Xiamen from mid-air is a pleasant and unforgettable experience.

When visiting Fuzhou, a leisurely stroll through the Three Lanes and Seven Alleys is a must. Walking on the cool cobblestone streets, looking up at the staggered saddle-shaped walls, white walls and gray tiles, you'll see the quintessential old Fuzhou. No need to rush to see the must-see spots; just wander into any alley, and you'll find ancient houses and courtyards brimming with stories. The streets are bustling with the aroma of everyday life—meat dumplings, fish balls, and peanut soup fill the air—a truly blissful experience as you stroll and savor the delicious treats.

Surrounded by green mountains, the Changjiao River flows through the village. The ancient earthen buildings and towering banyan trees are full of charm. Away from the hustle and bustle, stroll along the ancient paths and immerse yourself in the leisurely years of an ancient Minnan village.

Kaiyuan Temple, a thousand-year-old temple, boasts imposing twin pagodas and towering banyan trees, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Just a wall away lies West Street, a vibrant hub of activity, with its exquisitely carved ancient buildings that blend the diverse cultures of the Maritime Silk Road, making it a worthwhile destination to savor and appreciate the rich heritage of Quanzhou.

This is a small attraction. We visited the place when it was just opened in the morning. We found the visit more pleasant as there were fewer visitors and it was easier for you to take photographs. Plus you can take photographs of early morning sun. Do wear some mosquito repellent during summer as they would welcome you as early visitors.

The performance, priced at around seventy yuan, was well worth it. The Shaolin monks all gave their all, and the applause was constant throughout the performance. This was not only an affirmation of their performance but also a praise and expression of confidence in the spirit of traditional Chinese martial arts. There was especially a cute little monk, about four or five years old, who could even make a hand gesture, eliciting constant laughter.