Quanzhou, a city renowned for its captivating charm, truly lives up to the words of Bai Yansong, “This is a city you must visit at least once in your lifetime.”
This comprehensive and practical travel guide, carefully compiled by locals, offers invaluable insights for those planning a visit to Quanzhou. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a novice explorer, you’ll find everything you need to make your trip memorable.
Getting around Quanzhou is a breeze, with options ranging from buses, shared bicycles, and electric bikes. Self-driving is not recommended due to congestion in the old city, but the convenient “white cars” (a type of public transport) are a great alternative.
These white cars operate without fixed routes, stopping wherever passengers hail them. Simply inform the driver of your destination before boarding, and they will determine if it aligns with their route. If not, you can easily flag down the next car. Once on board, you can disembark at any time.
For a memorable city walk, follow this recommended route: Zhonglou Clock Tower → Xijie Street → Kaiyuan Temple → Xiangfeng Lane → Catholic Church → Chengtian Temple → Guanyue Temple → Tianhou Temple.
When it comes to accommodation, the area around Xijie Street offers convenient access to various attractions. The “Ganxia Inns” located in this vicinity are highly recommended for their excellent amenities and comfortable accommodations.
Here’s a breakdown of the must-visit spots in Quanzhou:
- Zhonglou Clock Tower: A landmark worth photographing for its unique architecture.
- Xijie Street: A vibrant street lined with numerous delicious Quanzhou snacks and offering views of the iconic twin towers of Kaiyuan Temple.
- Kaiyuan Temple: Visit this ancient temple between 6:30 and 17:30 to offer prayers and capture the grandeur of the millennium-old pagodas.
- Xiangfeng Lane: A hidden gem adjacent to Xijie Street, featuring stunning views of the Kaiyuan Temple towers.
- Catholic Church: A pink-hued cathedral in Hua Lane, adorned with numerous lanterns, creating a captivating atmosphere.
- Chengtian Temple: Less crowded than Kaiyuan Temple, it offers excellent photo opportunities, especially during sunny days.
- Qingjing Mosque: The filming location for the 1986 version of “Journey to the West,” visit between 7:30 and 17:30, remembering to wear long pants or skirts for the visit.
- Guanyue Temple: Open from 6:00 to 18:00, this temple is renowned for its vibrant spiritual atmosphere and efficacious prayers.
- Tianhou Temple: Open from 7:00 to 17:00, its architectural beauty is worth capturing on camera.
From delectable food to captivating landmarks, Quanzhou offers an immersive travel experience that is sure to leave lasting memories. Whether you’re a foodie, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Quanzhou has something special waiting for you.
Tags: #QuanzhouTravel #QuanzhouPhotography #QuanzhouFood #QuanzhouSightseeing #QuanzhouCulture
