Fuzhou, also known as “Rongcheng” (the City of Banyan Trees), is a picturesque coastal city in Fujian Province that blends thousand-year-old history with natural beauty. This 3-day itinerary is carefully crafted to help you experience the essence of Fuzhou—from the well-preserved ancient lanes to the serene river views, and from authentic local delicacies to the tranquil island scenery. Let’s embark on this unforgettable journey!
Pre-Trip Essentials
Transportation Tips
- Airport Transfer: From Changle International Airport to downtown Fuzhou, the fastest option is the Coastal Express Line (about 40 minutes, around 17 RMB), which directly connects to the core areas of Gulou and Taijiang. You can also book tickets via the “Yuanxiang Airport Express” mini-program for airport shuttles.
- Train Stations: Fuzhou Railway Station is closer to downtown attractions (e.g., Three Lanes and Seven Alleys) with Line 1 subway access (15-20 minutes to the city center). Fuzhou South Railway Station is farther, requiring 40+ minutes by subway to downtown, suitable only if your train only stops here.
- Local Travel: Subway Lines 1, 2, and 4 cover most scenic spots. Taxis start at 10 RMB, and shared bikes are a great way to explore the city’s lanes and feel the local vibe.
Accommodation Recommendation
Stay near Line 1 or Line 4 subway stations for convenience: – Dongjiekou Station (Interchange of Line 1 and 4): Close to Three Lanes and Seven Alleys and Daming Food Street, with a wide range of hotels from budget to mid-range (e.g., Home Inn, Fuzhou Hotel).
Day 1: Ancient Rhythm of Min Capital & Night View of Mountains and Rivers
Morning: Three Lanes and Seven Alleys (8:30 – 12:00)
As a national 5A scenic area and a “living fossil” of China’s traditional lane system, Three Lanes and Seven Alleys boasts well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture . Start from the north entrance of South Backstreet and wander through Yijin Lane, Wenru Lane, and Guanglu Lane. Don’t miss the Lin Zexu Memorial Hall (free admission), which showcases the life story of the famous national hero, and Yan Fu’s Former Residence, a representative of Min-style architecture.
Local Snacks to Try: – Tongli Rouyan (Fuzhou Wonton): A national intangible cultural heritage, with delicate wrappers made of pork and flour, filled with savory meat. – Yonghe Fish Balls (No. 112 South Backstreet): Plump fish balls with juicy fillings, served in a flavorful broth.
Lunch: Antai Building Restaurant (Three Lanes and Seven Alleys Branch) (12:00 – 13:30)
Indulge in authentic Min cuisine here. Recommended dishes: Litchi Pork (sweet and sour pork shaped like lychees), Buddha Jumps Over the Wall (small portion 88 RMB), and Braised Pork Ribs with Soy Sauce. The average cost per person is around 70 RMB.
Afternoon: Drum Mountain (14:30 – 17:30)
Located about 8 km from downtown, Drum Mountain is a natural oxygen bar . Take the cable car up the mountain (one-way 50 RMB) to save energy, then hike to Yongquan Temple (free admission), a renowned Buddhist temple with a history of over 1,200 years. Climb to Baiyun Peak for a panoramic view of the Min River and Fuzhou’s skyline. Tip: Arrive at 15:00 to catch the stunning sunset at the viewing platform .
Evening: Min River Night Cruise (19:30 – 21:00)
The Min River is Fuzhou’s “Mother River,” and the night cruise is a must-do experience . Board the ship at Taijiang Wharf (tickets around 100 RMB, book in advance via the “Min River Tour” mini-program). The route passes by Liberation Bridge, Zhongzhou Island, and the “I ❤️ Fuzhou” photo spot at Youth Square, where you can admire the dazzling light show along the riverbanks .
Day 2: Artistic Blocks & Folk Liveliness
Morning: Yantai Hill (9:00 – 12:00)
Yantai Hill is a treasure trove of historical architecture, with a blend of Chinese and Western styles . Start your visit at the Yantai Hill History Museum, then stroll through the Stone House Church (a Gothic-style building with red bricks and gray tiles) and the former site of the US Consulate. Don’t forget to take photos at the spiral staircase of the former Hwa Nan Women’s College, a popular spot for Instagram-worthy shots.
If you visit on a Saturday, check out the Creative Market in Cangqian Jiuli Block to browse handmade crafts and local specialties.
Lunch: Deaf Uncle Glutinous Rice Balls (Shangxiahang Branch) (12:00 – 13:00)
Try the local favorite: Peanut Soup with Sesame Glutinous Rice Balls. The peanut soup is creamy and sweet, and the glutinous rice balls are chewy with a rich sesame filling. The average cost per person is only 15 RMB .
Afternoon: Shangxiahang Historical and Cultural Block (13:30 – 17:00)
This ancient commercial district along the Sanjie River was once a prosperous port during the Ming and Qing dynasties . Visit the Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition Hall to learn about Fuzhou’s traditional crafts, such as lacquerware and bodiless lacquer. Take a traditional Fu Boat tour on the river (30 RMB per person) to experience “traveling in Fuzhou by water.”
Evening: Daming Food Street (19:00 – 21:00)
This bustling food street comes alive after 20:00 . Must-try snacks: – Bindebridge Spicy Soup: A flavorful soup with various ingredients like tofu skin and vermicelli. – Lungong No.1 Fried Buns: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, filled with savory meat. – Licorice Guava: A refreshing and sweet fruit snack, perfect for relieving greasiness.
Day 3: Island Seclusion & Natural Wonders (Pingtan Island Day Trip)
Morning: Travel to Pingtan Island (8:00 – 9:00)
Take a high-speed train from Fuzhou South Railway Station to Pingtan Station (about 30 minutes, 19 RMB) . Pingtan Island, known as “Thousand Reefs and Hundred Islands,” is the largest island in Fujian Province, famous for its coastal landscapes and the magical “Blue Tears” spectacle .
Transportation on the Island: It’s recommended to rent a car or hire a chartered car (around 300 RMB per day) for convenience, as some scenic spots are scattered .
Noon: Beigang Village (10:00 – 13:00)
Explore the unique stone house buildings in Beigang Village, which are made of local stone and blend perfectly with the coastal scenery. Visit the cultural and creative workshops to experience traditional crafts. Have lunch at a local seafood restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh seafood like crabs and prawns.
Afternoon: Changjiang’ao Wind Farm & Longwangtou Beach (13:30 – 17:30)
Changjiang’ao Wind Farm is the largest wind power farm in Fujian, with rows of wind turbines standing by the sea . It’s the best spot to watch the sunset—when the golden sunlight shines on the wind turbines and the sea, the scenery is breathtaking. You can also try sea foraging here (remember to check the tide schedule).
Later, head to Longwangtou Beach, the most famous beach on Pingtan Island. From April to June, you may be lucky enough to see the “Blue Tears” (bioluminescent plankton) at night—follow the “Happy Pingtan” mini-program for predictions .
Evening: Return to Fuzhou & Souvenir Shopping (17:30 – 19:00)
Take the high-speed train back to Fuzhou. On the way, buy souvenirs like Fuzhou fish balls (frozen for takeaway) and jasmine tea, which are famous local specialties.
Travel Tips
- Best Travel Time: Spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November) are the best seasons, with mild weather. Avoid the typhoon season in summer .
- Temple Etiquette: When visiting temples like Yongquan Temple, avoid wearing shorts or slippers. Some temples offer free incense .
- Budget Reference: The average cost per person is 1000-1500 RMB, including transportation, accommodation, meals, and tickets. Pingtan Island has slightly higher consumption .
- Food Notes: Fuzhou cuisine is slightly sweet. If you prefer spicy food, you can ask the restaurant to adjust the seasoning.
Fuzhou’s charm lies in its slow pace, rich history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re wandering through ancient lanes, admiring river views, or tasting local snacks, you’ll fall in love with this city. Wish you a wonderful trip!
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