Quanzhou

Asia

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China

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Quanzhou

Situated on the southeastern coast of China’s Fujian Province, Quanzhou was once a major port along the Maritime Silk Road. Today, its rich history is reflected in Quanzhou’s diverse cultural heritage, including religious sites of various faiths. Explore the Kaiyuan Temple, the largest Buddhist complex in Fujian; the Guanyue Temple, a Taoist structure renowned for its ornate decorations; and the Qingjing Mosque, built in Islamic architectural style in the early 11th century. Don’t miss the Quanzhou Puppet Theater, where you can witness one of China’s oldest traditional puppetry arts. For outdoor enthusiasts, Qingyuan Mountain offers scenic hikes amidst lush greenery and a massive statue of Laozi (Lao Tzu). Savor the local specialty, Tieguanyin, a fragrant oolong tea with a bittersweet aftertaste. Widely available in tea shops, it makes an excellent souvenir and a delightful treat on your trip to Quanzhou!

Travel Tips for Quanzhou

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Quanzhou

A guide to Quanzhou's local transportation

Bus

Taxi

Ridesharing

Quanzhou has an excellent bus network that covers the city center and various tourist attractions. For instance, bus 16 connects the city center with Jinjiang Airport, while bus 601 stops at Kaiyuan Temple and Qingyuan Mountain. Fares are affordable, ranging from RMB 1 to 7 depending on the distance traveled. You can use cash, a transportation card like China T-Union, or a digital wallet for payment. Buses run from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Practical Tips for Quanzhou

Things to prepare and best way to visit

What are the top attractions in Quanzhou?

Visit Kaiyuan Temple, an important historical and religious site for Buddhists. Hike in Qingyuan Mountain to see a giant sculpture of Chinese philosopher Laozi. Enjoy captivating puppet shows at Quanzhou Puppet Theater. Finally, don't miss the Quanzhou Museum and the Quanzhou Maritime Museum to dive into the region's rich history and maritime heritage.

What are some popular day trips from Quanzhou?

Take a day trip to Chongwu Ancient Town, about 45 km from Quanzhou. Built during the Ming Dynasty, this site boasts a well-preserved 16th-century fortress, a beautiful sculpture park, and stunning ocean views. To get there, you can take a bus from Quanzhou Bus Station to Chongwu Bus Station or take a taxi for a quicker, more convenient journey.

When is the best time to visit Quanzhou?

The best time to visit Quanzhou is in spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant. These months are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking or exploring cultural attractions. If you’re interested in joining the Chinese New Year festivities, make sure to check the dates before booking your trip—the celebration typically falls between January and February. Avoid visiting during the summer months (June to August), when it is humid and temperatures can reach 33°C.

What are some must-try dishes in Quanzhou?

Oysters are plentiful in Quanzhou and are featured in popular dishes such as fried oysters and hāo jiān (oyster omelette). Another local specialty is jiāng mǔ yā (ginger duck), a hearty dish typically enjoyed during colder days. For dessert, try the sweet peanut soup, and don't miss the chance to taste Tieguanyin, a famous oolong tea from Fujian Province.

What language is spoken in Quanzhou?

The main languages spoken in Quanzhou are Minnan (also known as Hokkien) and Mandarin. Some locals may not speak English, so it’s a good idea to have a translation app handy to help with communication. Consider learning a few Minnan phrases, such as lı́ hó (hello), phái-sè (excuse me), and to-siā (thank you), to show respect for the local culture while traveling in Quanzhou.