When it comes to Fujian, most people are undoubtedly enchanted by the dazzling city of Xiamen. However, behind this prosperous facade lies an ancient city that is tranquil and solemn, a true king without equal.
As if passing through a thousand-year-old time tunnel, it emerges quietly from the torrent of history, having weathered more than 2,200 years of turbulence. The world bestows upon it the accolade of “Coastal Zhoulu” and praises its unique charm as the “Blessed Prefecture.” This city is none other than Fuzhou.
The writer Yu Dafu once briefly stayed in Fuzhou. In his “Min Travel Journal,” he affectionately described, “The land of Fuzhou is surrounded by green mountains on three sides, with a river flowing through the city, resembling a giant armchair with a back and armrests on both sides, serene and solemn.”
Fuzhou, this treasure trove of “mountains, fertile fields, rivers, and seas,” seems to be deeply enveloped in blessings. Its advantageous geographical environment not only endows it with an inclusive and accommodating heart but also shapes its gentle and elegant temperament.
In the streets and alleys of Fuzhou, you can see traces of various foreign religions. Almost all of them found their homes here when they were first introduced to China. This city is full of charm and unique allure. People affectionately call it the “Banyan City” because the banyan tree is the soul of this city. They are scattered in every corner of the city, bringing a touch of coolness to the scorching summer days. “No need for umbrellas in the heat, as the city is filled with green shade” is the most authentic portrayal of Fuzhou.
Strolling through the streets of Fuzhou, you will often encounter century-old giant banyans. They seem to be the blessings left by the “predecessors,” silently guarding this city. Each banyan tree is a witness to the history of this city and an embodiment of its unique charm.
Fuzhou and Taiwan are separated by the sea, connected by water, like a pair of intimate brothers. The most beautiful sea-crossing high-speed rail passes through here, with clear and azure seawater, shimmering waves, and the stunning “blue tears” sparkling in the night sky, illuminating the night sky of Fuzhou and the hearts of people.
The most beautiful island in China is also located here, adding endless charm to Fuzhou. Although this place once gathered the turbulent events of China’s entire modern history, today’s Fuzhou appears particularly tranquil. It is luxurious without losing elegance, and simplicity reveals prosperity.
This city is truly worth a visit.
Fuzhou awaits your discovery of its beauty.
Fuzhou, the Blessed Prefecture
The Blessed Prefecture, with its enduring charm, seems to attract everyone who sets foot on this land with an invisible allure.
The first stop in Fuzhou is undoubtedly the enchanting Sanfang Qixiang (Three Lanes and Seven Alleys).
Strolling through it feels like entering a time tunnel, with each step treading on the weight of history, immersed in the embrace of ancient architecture.
The architectural styles here are diverse and colorful, unfolding like a scroll.
Shen Baozhen’s Former Residence, Lin Juemin’s Former Residence, Yan Fu’s Former Residence… Nine historical treasures shine brightly, with their unique Ming and Qing styles, telling the ancient stories of Fuzhou and showcasing the grandeur and magnificence of this ancient city.
Wandering through the streets and alleys of Sanfang Qixiang, it seems as if you can hear the echoes of history whispering in your ears. Those winding and meandering alleys are like ancient veins, narrating the vicissitudes and changes of Fuzhou.
As night falls, the ancient buildings emit a unique charm under the illumination of lights, as if time has stopped here, allowing people to immerse themselves in it.
Each step is an exploration and tracing of history.
Each pause is a deep tribute to the past years.
Fuzhou, Sanfang Qixiang, a thousand-year-old charm that captivates people.
Fudao
Fudao, this gem praised by National Geographic as the world’s most beautiful trail, is like an elegant ribbon, cleverly connecting Zuohai Park, Meifeng Mountain Park, and Jinniu Mountain Park. The entire loop stretches for 19 kilometers, and every step feels like walking on clouds, allowing people to enjoy the unique experience of being away from the mundane without leaving the city.
Stepping onto the winding Fudao is like embarking on an adventure through time and space. When you climb to the top of the mountain and stand by the railing, the entire beauty of Fuzhou unfolds before your eyes like a scroll.
The rippling waves of the Min River, the majestic Hongshan Bridge, the well-arranged residential houses, and the undulating distant mountains are all presented in this boundless view. At this moment, you seem to be standing between heaven and earth, blending with nature, feeling refreshed and invigorated.
Especially in the summer, the surrounding mountains along the trail are lush and verdant. It feels like walking into a vivid oil painting, with every step filled with poetry and romance. The fresh air and pleasant scenery make people’s hearts flutter, as if the entire summer is healed by this greenery.
Shangxia Hang
The ancient street of Shangxia Hang is not only a microcosm of Fuzhou’s history but also a brilliant treasure of Fuzhou’s culture.
Strolling along this ancient street feels like passing through a time tunnel, returning to Fuzhou a thousand years ago, personally experiencing the weight of history and the accumulation of culture.
Delving into the alleys, leisurely meandering forward, every step seems to tread on the veins of history. The ancient bricks and tiles shimmer with the luster of time under the sunlight, each one seemingly whispering stories of the past. Sunlight filters through the gaps between the treetops, casting mottled shadows, adding a touch of mystery and romance to this ancient street.
On both sides of this ancient street, various small shops stand in abundance, like a vivid historical scroll. Among them, the food stores with the “State-owned” signboards are particularly eye-catching. They sell a variety of traditional Fuzhou pastries, emitting an enticing aroma. Standing in front of these shops, it feels as if you can hear the bustling sounds of the market from a hundred years ago, feeling that strong sense of nostalgia.
At this moment, it truly feels like traveling back a hundred years, sharing the prosperity and tranquility of this ancient street with the people of Fuzhou from that time.
Old Cangshan
This place is the dream destination for countless people, the poetic land where they long to permanently settle, with an incomparable elegance that can rival Old Shanghai.
Strolling here feels like stepping into a dreamlike scene from a movie. Childhood memories come rushing back like tides. Under the sunlight, light and shadows intertwine, everything seems so natural and serene, like a fairyland on earth.
It is worth mentioning that there is also a notable group of foreign-style houses here, gathering various architectural styles from Eastern and Western Europe. Gothic spires, Roman solemnity, Rococo delicacy, you name it, it’s all here, like a “Museum of Nations.”
Every brick and tree shadow here seems to carry ancient legends and stories, waiting for the destined ones to explore and savor.
Yantai Mountain
“A garden in full bloom, a winding path, a cluster of blossoming flowers, an ancient house, a coachman leisurely driving by, every corner is permeated with poetry. And the most enchanting moment is during the sunset, when the melodious bell of the chapel gently rings, and under the green shade, a few ladies with floral paper umbrellas gently walk by.” This is the deep affectionate portrayal of Yantai Mountain by Mr. Ye Shengtao.
Walking on the path of Yantai Mountain feels like passing through a tunnel of time, returning to those gentle days of the past.
The ancient trees here are towering and lush, as if whispering ancient stories and legends. The old foreign-style houses scattered around add an antique and elegant charm to this land.
“The green mountains are like ink, the mist and clouds linger; high hills and low rivers, the scenery is picturesque.” When you reach the top of the mountain and gaze into the distance, you can see the overlapping peaks of Wuhu in the south and the majestic Three Mountains in the north. The beautiful scenery on both sides of the Min River is fully unveiled, like a beautiful scroll slowly unfolding before your eyes.
Zhongzhou Island
It is like a brilliant pearl, firmly embedded in the “Sandbar” of Fuzhou, as if it is a treasure specially adorned by nature. The Liberation Bridge, like a silver ribbon, cleverly connects this island with both banks, making it an indispensable part of Fuzhou.
The architectural style of the entire island is full of a strong European flair. The unique shapes and exquisite details, when viewed from afar, resemble a huge luxurious passenger ship quietly docked in the vast Min River. The towering spires, delicate window frames, and elegant arches all showcase its nobility and elegance.
As the first-generation local internet-famous landmark of Fuzhou, Zhongzhou Island holds a significant place in the hearts of Fuzhou people. Some are amazed by the splendor and beauty of this water fairy tale castle, as if they are in a dreamlike wonderland; others lament the loneliness and silence of this water castle, sighing at the ruthlessness and changes of time.
However, Zhongzhou Island is a precious childhood memory for many Fuzhou people. It has witnessed the laughter and tears of countless Fuzhou people and carried their dreams and hopes. Whenever Zhongzhou Island is mentioned, those warm memories come flooding back, making people’s hearts surge and unable to calm down for a long time.
The Land of Romance
When it comes to Fuzhou, perhaps what comes to mind for many people is only the depth and profundity of “culture.” However, hidden on this ancient land is a romance that can make anyone intoxicated and helpless.
The romance of Fuzhou is not a fleeting touch, but a deep-rooted affection. It is like an unfinished love song, gently humming every morning and dusk, making people immerse themselves in it, unable to extricate themselves.
When night falls and the lights come on, the streets and alleys of Fuzhou seem to be covered with a layer of mysterious veil. Strolling on the ancient streets, you can feel the intertwining of historical weight and modern romance, forming one after another beautiful scroll.
The romance of Fuzhou is also hidden in those unknown small alleys. Those corners forgotten by time conceal countless moving stories and secrets. As long as you search with your heart, you will discover the romance and beauty hidden in the details.
So, the next time you mention Fuzhou, please don’t just think of its “culture.” Because the romance of Fuzhou is equally worthy of your appreciation and experience.
Pingtan Island
Did you know that in the vast sea area of China, there are only two brilliant pearls that can be honored with the title of “International Tourism Island”? One is the well-known Hainan Island, and the other is the gem-like Pingtan Island, seemingly inlaid in the endless blue waves.
Pingtan Island, as the fifth-largest island in China, stands quietly at the intersection of the sky and the sea, facing Taiwan across the strait, as if it were a bridge between the mainland and Taiwan.
When you set foot on Pingtan Island, it is as if you have stepped into a naturally formed ink painting. The sky is clear, the white clouds are leisurely, the blue sea ripples, and the golden sand paves the ground. All these beautiful sceneries complement each other in this painting, forming an absolutely stunning picture.
The seawater here is crystal clear, like a huge sapphire, sparkling with an alluring glow. The beach is fine and soft, like a painting drawn with the gentlest strokes, making people can’t help but want to go barefoot on it and feel the coolness and embrace from the sea.
You can indulge in playing on the beach, letting the waves caress your feet and the sea breeze brush your face, feeling the endless freedom and joy. Pingtan Island, this natural seaside resort, will bring you an unforgettable travel experience.
Qida Village
From the start of the Y-shaped path at the village entrance, three winding trails extend in different directions, like three arms of Mother Earth, pointing to different secret realms.
Following the upper path and ascending the steps, you will reach the peak of the mountain. Standing here, it feels as if you are between heaven and earth. Looking down, the entire village is like an exquisite chessboard, laid out in front of your eyes in an orderly manner, while in the distance, the vast sea is like a magnificent painting, fully captured by your sight.
If you choose the lower path, you will directly reach the busy pier. The sea breeze gently blows, bringing the gentle singing of the waves, as if telling the stories of the ocean. In front of you is the busy abalone farming operation, with cages of abalone swaying gently in the seawater. In the distance, fishermen are returning with full loads, steering their sails and slowly heading towards the shore, forming a touching picture of homecoming.
The middle path leads you deep into the village. The old streets and alleys here are like tunnels of time, taking you back to ancient times. Strolling through them, you will encounter busy villagers, some drying fishing nets, others repairing boats, everything feels so real and vivid. The life and warmth here make you feel the warmth and beauty of life.
The City of Gods
In Fuzhou, the foreign religious culture is like a long and endless river of history, surging and ever-flowing.
Here, various cultures are as brilliant as stars, shining together and jointly composing magnificent movements. Therefore, the land of Fuzhou seems to be a huge cultural winery, through years of precipitation and brewing, nurturing countless fine brews of “splendid civilizations.”
These fine brews of civilization exude a charming fragrance, attracting countless tourists to come and taste, experiencing the unique charm of Fuzhou culture.
Shicuo Church
Shicuo Church, although not grand and huge, attracts tourists who come in droves every year, endlessly. Perhaps they are drawn by the deep historical heritage here, or perhaps it is the century-old ginkgo tree that makes their hearts yearn.
In front of the church, an ancient ginkgo tree stands quietly, its age exceeding 160 years. This ginkgo tree has lush branches and leaves, and its canopy is like a huge green umbrella, blocking out the sky. It is not only the only ginkgo tree in Fuzhou city area designated as a first-class protected ancient and famous tree but also a masterpiece of nature and a witness to history.
The golden ginkgo leaves shine under the sunlight, forming an interesting contrast with the emerald-green camphor trees. The intertwined colors of yellow and green are like a carefully crafted oil painting, so beautiful that it is hard to believe. Standing here, it feels as if you are in a dreamlike world, making people immerse themselves in it and linger with no desire to leave.
Fanchuanpu Catholic Church
In the past, the sound of the clock tower of Fanchuanpu Catholic Church could be heard from more than ten miles away, and it was known as the “First Grand Church in Jiangnan.” After years of baptism, it still stands proudly, being the largest Catholic church in Fujian.
The Gothic architectural style is full of romance and beauty, attracting the eyes of countless tourists and becoming a popular spot for shooting portrait photos and wedding photos.
Stepping into the church, it feels like entering a dazzling dreamland.
The arched dome rises high into the clouds, as if carrying people’s faith and hope. The starry patterns adorning it add a touch of mystery and solemnity. The windows on the walls are inlaid with colorful glass. Sunlight passing through these colorful glass panes casts into the church, illuminating the entire space with a riot of colors, as if you are in a fairy tale world, so beautiful that it makes people intoxicated.
West Zen Temple
This thousand-year-old ancient temple is like a profound and charming elder of history, quietly narrating the vicissitudes of the past.
The shadow of the pagoda is reflected on the rippling lake surface, and the red plum blossoms and green bamboo complement each other, forming a beautiful and pleasant painting scroll.
The dark red walls of West Zen Temple are like a striking barrier of raging fire, guarding this peaceful holy land. Above the wall, it is covered with shimmering yellow glazed tiles that sparkle under the sunlight.
The temple’s main gate is simple and primitive, with four pillars, three doors, and three-story buildings, solemn and majestic. The middle door is engraved with four gilded large characters “西禅古寺” (West Zen Ancient Temple), shining with a fascinating luster, as if time is frozen here, overflowing with brilliant colors, making people’s hearts yearn for it.
Jinshan Temple
It is the unique treasure of Fuzhou, a touch of emerald green on the water—Jinshan Temple.
In the past, it was just a small rocky islet in the middle of the river, but due to its unique shape, it floats gently on the water like a stone seal, resembling the majestic Jinshan in Zhenjiang of Jiangnan, thus earning the name “Little Jinshan.”
Especially during dusk, when you stand by the railing of Jinshan Temple and gaze into the boundless river, you can see the rippling green waves and the dotted sails, like a painted scene from a poem.
The afterglow of the setting sun is like a paintbrush in the hands of a painter, dyeing the sky into a painting scroll intertwined with gold and fiery red, so beautiful that it intoxicates the mind and soul.
Fuzhou Is Meant for Enjoyment
Fuzhou, this charming city, seems to possess a magical power. It is prosperous, like a flowing painting scroll, shining with the brilliance and vitality of the metropolis everywhere.
However, amidst this prosperity, it also cleverly conceals a rare tranquility, like a wise person with hidden depths, maintaining inner peace in the midst of noise.
Although Fuzhou is a big city, it gives people a sense of ease, as if it is a warm haven, allowing people to find a moment of tranquility in their busy lives.
Here, you can feel the pulse of the city and taste the beauty of life, making people want to stay and linger, reluctant to leave.
Guling
When I climbed to the top of Guling and looked around, I saw mountains undulating like waves, with layers of peaks and ridges, like a magnificent painting scroll slowly unfolding before my eyes.
The mountains are vigorous and beautiful, as if they are masterpieces of nature, leaving people in awe.
On top of Guling, I waited for the arrival of the sunrise. As the eastern night curtain gradually receded and the dawn arrived as promised, the first ray of sunlight gently sprinkled, draping the earth with a layer of golden veil.
I immersed myself in the ambiance of the dawn, feeling the fresh air as if it could wash away the dust in my heart. I listened to the elegant sounds of nature—the rustling of the wind through the leaves, the cheerful chirping of birds, and the gurgling sound of streams in the distance. These sounds intertwined, forming a beautiful movement that refreshed the mind and spirit.
The Most Important Thing Is, of Course, Eating
The aroma of Fuzhou cuisine spreads to the four seas like the sea breeze, and the charm of its food culture has been passed down for thousands of years, still circulating in the streets and alleys of the Min capital.
This folk saying, like an ancient melody, is still sung by the people of Fuzhou today.
From the meat-stuffed fishballs and Lao Hua pot edges that both Chinese and foreign food lovers compete to taste, to the eight-treasure rice, taro paste, and lychee meat commonly seen on the dining tables of ordinary people, each dish carries the history and culture of Fuzhou, and each bite leaves an unforgettable aftertaste.
Fuzhou, this paradise of delicacies, has even captivated Chen Xiaoqing, the director of “A Bite of China,” who got lost in the deliciousness of this city.
In Fuzhou, century-old snack shops are scattered like stars, and a casual stroll may lead you to encounter a time-honored old shop that has weathered the vicissitudes of life. These old brands that have gone through wind and rain are not only the pride of Fuzhou but also witnesses to the history and culture of this city.
Some say that Fuzhou is the least capital-like among all provincial capitals, but it is precisely this uniqueness that fills the streets and alleys of Fuzhou with an atmosphere of tranquility and harmony. Strolling through them, it feels as if you are in a secluded paradise far away from the hustle and bustle, allowing people to forget their fatigue and feel refreshed.
Under the gaze of the mountains, in the deep affection of the sea, beneath the dense shade of ancient banyan trees, between the span of bridges, in the mottled old streets and alleys, and amidst the ancient charm of flower windows and saddle walls, every corner of Fuzhou exudes a unique charm.
Only by personally visiting Fuzhou can you truly experience the charm of this city and understand why people call it the “City of Fortune.”
