Step into Fuzhou, the heart of Fujian Province, where 2,200 years of history blend seamlessly with a modern skyline. From the ancient Three Lanes and Seven Alleys to the majestic Sitan Temple, this city has preserved its Maritime Silk Road legacy while shaping China’s future. Stroll through its winding alleys, witness breathtaking architecture, and discover the legendary Love Heart Tree—a symbol of romance and tradition.
Fuzhou Travel Guide
Introduction
Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian Province, is a historic and culturally rich city with a blend of traditional architecture, modern development, and natural beauty. Known as the "City of Banyans," it is famous for its ancient trees, hot springs, and historical sites.
Top Attractions
Three Lanes and Seven Alleys (Sanfang Qixiang)
A well-preserved historical district with Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, narrow lanes, and courtyards filled with tea houses, local snacks, and boutique shops.
Drum Mountain (Gushan)
A scenic area featuring ancient temples, hiking trails, and breathtaking views of the Min River. The famous Yongquan Temple is located here.
West Lake Park
One of the most beautiful parks in Fuzhou, offering boat rides, classical pavilions, and gardens reminiscent of West Lake in Hangzhou.
Pingtan Island
A stunning coastal area with pristine beaches, rock formations, and a rich fishing culture. Perfect for those seeking seaside relaxation.
Fuzhou National Forest Park
A large forest park offering lush greenery, waterfalls, and hiking opportunities. A great escape from the city's hustle.
Hot Springs
Fuzhou is known for its natural hot springs, with many hotels and resorts offering spa experiences. The most famous is Rongqiao Hot Springs.
Local Cuisine
Fuzhou cuisine is known for its fresh seafood and mild, slightly sweet flavors. Must-try dishes include:
Buddha Jumps Over the Wall – A luxurious soup with seafood, meat, and medicinal herbs.
Fish Ball Soup – Handmade fish balls stuffed with meat in a light broth.
Litchi Pork – Sweet and sour pork dish resembling the shape of lychee fruit.
Fuzhou Noodles – Thin noodles in a flavorful broth, often served with seafood.
Best Time to Visit
Fuzhou has a subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The best time to visit is from October to April when the weather is comfortable and ideal for sightseeing.
Transportation
By Air: Fuzhou Changle International Airport connects the city to major domestic and international destinations.
By Train: High-speed trains link Fuzhou to cities like Xiamen, Shanghai, and Beijing.
Public Transport: Buses and metro lines make it easy to explore the city.
Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Didi and taxis are widely available for convenient travel.
Accommodation
Fuzhou offers a range of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Recommended areas to stay include the city center near Three Lanes and Seven Alleys, as well as the hot spring district.
Conclusion
Fuzhou is a fascinating destination with a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Whether you're exploring ancient streets, hiking mountains, or enjoying hot springs, the city offers a diverse and rewarding travel experience.
The Hakka Tulou are unique, fortress-like buildings located in the mountainous areas of Fujian Province. These large, circular or rectangular earthen structures were built by the Hakka people, an ethnic group known for their migratory history. The Tulou are notable for their communal living spaces, defensive features, and remarkable architectural design.
Who are the Hakka People?
The Hakka are a subgroup of the Han Chinese, known for their migratory history and resilience. Originating from northern China, the Hakka migrated southwards over several centuries, settling in the mountainous regions of southern China. The name "Hakka" means "guest people," reflecting their history of migration and settlement in new areas.
Hakka culture places a strong emphasis on education, family unity, and community cooperation. Despite facing hardships and displacement, the Hakka have maintained their unique cultural identity and traditions.
Historical and Cultural Background
Origins and History
The construction of Tulou began during the Song Dynasty (960-1279) and continued through the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) Dynasties. These buildings were designed to provide protection and communal living for large families or clans, often housing up to 80 families in a single Tulou.
Cultural Significance
The Tulou reflect the Hakka people's need for security and their communal lifestyle. The buildings are designed to be self-sufficient, with living quarters, storage areas, and defensive structures all incorporated into the design. The Hakka culture values family unity, and the Tulou are a physical manifestation of this principle.
Architectural Features
Design and Structure
Tulou are typically large, multi-storied structures built with thick earthen walls that provide insulation and protection. The outer walls are made from rammed earth, mixed with stone, bamboo, and wood, making them extremely durable. The interiors are organized around a central courtyard, with rooms for living, storage, and communal activities.
Defensive Capabilities
The design of the Tulou includes defensive features such as narrow windows and a single, reinforced entrance. These elements were intended to protect the inhabitants from bandits and wild animals. The circular shape of many Tulou also allows for effective communication and defense within the building.
Communal and Social Aspects
Living Arrangements
The Tulou were built to house entire clans, with each family having its own designated area within the structure. The central courtyard served as a communal space for social activities, celebrations, and meetings. This layout fostered a strong sense of community and cooperation among the inhabitants.
Self-Sufficiency
The Tulou were designed to be self-sufficient, with areas designated for food storage, livestock, and agricultural activities. This self-sufficiency was essential, as the Tulou were often located in remote, mountainous areas where resources needed to be carefully managed.
UNESCO World Heritage Status
Recognition
In 2008, several Fujian Tulou were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This recognition highlights their architectural uniqueness, cultural significance, and historical importance. The Tulou are considered outstanding examples of communal living and defensive architecture.
Conservation Efforts
Efforts to preserve the Tulou focus on maintaining the traditional construction techniques and protecting the buildings from modern threats such as tourism pressure and environmental degradation. These efforts aim to ensure that the Tulou remain a living part of Hakka culture.
Conclusion
The Hakka Tulou are extraordinary structures that embody the resilience, ingenuity, and communal spirit of the Hakka people. These architectural marvels continue to stand as a testament to the Hakka's ability to adapt and thrive in challenging environments. As both historical treasures and vibrant communities, the Tulou attract visitors from around the world, offering a glimpse into a unique way of life.
Gulangyu Island (鼓浪屿, Gǔlàngyǔ): Explore the car-free island known for its colonial architecture, beaches, and scenic views.
Xiamen University (厦门大学, Xiàmén Dàxué): Visit the beautiful campus known for its traditional Chinese-style architecture and scenic surroundings. ... more ...
A charming island known for its colonial architecture, winding streets, and lush gardens. Visitors can explore historic buildings, enjoy panoramic views of the sea, and discover attractions such as the Piano Museum and Sunlight Rock. ... more ...
Don't panic that the thumbnails look bad - that's just because these videos are from waaaaaay back - but still play
: )
Into the way-back machine - two great videos from 2010 - 2012 (not HD, but feel the vibe) ...
ShangHai and FuZhou (capital of FuJian province) ...
Bad Romance, Jai Ho, Rolling on the River, and more ...
QuanZhou was once one of China's major ports for foreign traders. It was visited by Marco Polo who praised it as one of the most prosperous and glorious cities in the world. As its harbor is not suitable for larger ships, its significance as a port has reduced but retains abundant cultural heritage.
On the south east coast of China, with ZheJiang to the north and GuangDong to the south.
In part, FuJian is famous for its tea and lychee fruit.
The largest cities include FuZhou (the capital) and XiaMen.
Hakka, a Han Chinese people but with their own distinct identity, live in the southern parts of the province. The Hakka are most associated with their unique TuLou - large, round, communal dwellings.
As a former treaty port, XiaMen has some colonial architecture.
As part of China's Opening Up Policy in the early 1980s under Deng XiaoPing, XiaMen became one of the four original special economic zones opened to foreign investment and trade.
XiaMen is well-regarded as a pleasant city.
A film about a return to one's family's roots ...
South east China.
XiaMen was one of the first four 'special economic zones' when China began economic liberalization in the early 1980s (just 30 years ago).
The traditional round houses of the Hakka ethnic minority, called TuLou (土楼), provided a measure of security and were like a small village inside.
XiaMen is a port city in FuJian province, east China.
It is widely regarded as a pleasant city, with fine beaches.
This film looks at the KiteBoard Tour of Asia in 2009; first stop in XiaMen.
Tourism promotion film.
FuJian (福建) is a province on the southeast coast of China. The province includes many places of interest, including Mount WuYi, a World Heritage site.
