Embarking from Nanchang to Putian, remember to bring back some snacks and drinks as the food and beverage options at Putian Railway Station are limited and tend to be pricey. The journey by high-speed train takes approximately four hours.
Upon arrival at the Putian Railway Station, transfer to a bus (K09/363) and ensure you have some spare cash as some buses only accept cash payments. We recommend taking the K09 bus, which offers a more comfortable ride in a larger vehicle. The bus ride takes about an hour to reach Wenjia Pier, where you can board a ferry to Meizhou Island.
Advance online ticket bookings can be made through the GZ platform for the ferry to Meizhou Island. Holders of teacher’s licenses or student IDs can enjoy a 50% discount. For accommodation, we recommend the area near Lianchi Ao Beach, which is close to the sea, Mazu Temple, and the farmers’ market. However, during peak seasons, hotel prices tend to surge, and our sea-view room had increased to over 700 yuan.
Regarding food, the cuisine in Meizhou Island is relatively bland, unsuitable for those with a preference for spicy flavors. Nevertheless, the Four-Fruit Soup is worth trying. Currently, Tasiting seems to be the most popular restaurant on the island. Additionally, Hongyunlai Restaurant in the farmers’ market offers delicious seafood and local specialties. Expect to spend around 100 yuan per person, and those with a penchant for spiciness should bring their own chili sauce.
In terms of transportation, the island is small enough to explore by electric bike. You can choose to rent a bike for 50-80 yuan per day, or opt for the shared bikes similar to Qingju, which are cost-effective but may be difficult to find during peak hours. Alternatively, taxis are available, and for larger groups, hiring a sightseeing bus is recommended (remember to haggle on the price). Lastly, sun protection is paramount; don’t forget to bring sunscreen and other protective gear.
Overall, Meizhou Island offers scenic landscapes and is well worth a visit.
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