Quanzhou Uncovered: Exploring One of China’s Most Overlooked Cities

When planning a trip to China, iconic cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chongqing are usually at the top of most travelers’ lists. However, for my first visit, I decided to break away from the typical tourist hotspots and visit Quanzhou, a city just an hour’s train ride from Xiamen.

Historical Significance

Located in Fujian Province on the southeastern coast of China, Quanzhou was once the largest port in Asia during the Song (960-1279) and Yuan (1271-1368) dynasties.

Known as the starting point of the Maritime Silk Road, this remarkable city was not only a bustling hub of commerce but also an important window that facilitated trade links and cultural exchanges between ancient China and the outside world.

5 Compelling Reasons to Visit Quanzhou

1. Discover the Maritime Silk Road Heritage

Delve into Quanzhou’s rich history at the Quanzhou Maritime Museum.

Prepare to be amazed by the diverse collection of exhibits showcasing maritime history, featuring ancient ships, navigational tools, maps, and fascinating artifacts recovered from shipwrecks.

These extraordinary items provide a captivating glimpse into the technology and techniques employed by early sailors, offering a unique perspective on their adventurous voyages.

Walk across one of the longest stone bridges in the world and marvel at its sheer scale. The Loyang Bridge, still standing strong today, spans an impressive 731 meters (2,396 feet) in length and 4.5 meters (14.8 feet) in width, supported by 45 sturdy piers.

Once a vital link between China’s land-based trade routes and the Maritime Silk Road, it enabled the movement of goods and people along this key trade network.

As one of China’s four ancient bridges, the Loyang Bridge is a living testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of ancient Chinese builders.

2. Explore A Hodgepodge City of Religions

Did you know that Quanzhou is also known as the “World Museum of Religions”? Due to its thriving maritime trade, the city has historically become a melting pot of diverse religions and cultural landmarks.

You can discover how various religions, such as Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity, and Islam, have coexisted and flourished in Quanzhou over the centuries, leaving behind a rich legacy of religious architecture, artifacts, and cultural traditions.

Here are a few religious sites I visited:

• Kaiyuan Temple (开元寺)

With a history of more than 1,300 years, the Kaiyuan Temple is the largest Buddhist temple in Fujian Province.

Standing over 40 meters high, the East and West Pagodas are considered landmarks of Quanzhou. Be prepared to spend at least one to two hours exploring the vast temple complex.

• Qingjing Mosque (清净寺)

Built in 1009 during the Song Dynasty by the Arab Muslim community, the Qingjing Mosque is the oldest extant Islamic architecture in China. One distinctive feature of this mosque is its unique blend of both Arabic and Chinese architectural styles.

• Guanyue Temple (通淮关岳庙)

Just a 5-minute walk from the Qingjng Mosque is the Tonghuai Guanyue Temple. Well-known for its efficacious divination through drawing lots, the temple is easily recognizable from a distance by swirling smoke and a haze of incense, as numerous devotees flock here to worship.

3. Tour a Renowned Historical and Cultural Village

Xunpu Village (蟳埔村) is a small, quaint fishing village located about 10 kilometers away from Quanzhou city.

Upon entering the village, you’ll immediately notice the unique fish scale-like walls, characteristic of the distinctive Minnan-style houses known as “Oyster Shell Houses (蚵壳厝).”

These structures are primarily made from oyster shells and bricks, with local materials used to replace traditional red bricks.

In addition to the distinctive oyster shell buildings, you’ll also notice many women adorned with “Zanhuawei” (簪花围) – a floral headpiece that has become a hallmark of “Xunpu Women’s Customs.”

Zanhuawei are hair accessories crafted from a variety of fresh or silk flowers. They are placed in the hair, which is styled into a snail-like coil and secured with an ivory hairpin, creating a truly unique and beautiful appearance.

4. Find Tranquillity Amidst the City’s Hustle

Nestled in the northwest of Quanzhou City, West Lake (西湖) is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.

Surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills, and picturesque pavilions, it offers a serene escape ideal for leisurely strolls or relaxing boat rides. Renowned for its breathtaking beauty and effective governance, West Lake has earned numerous accolades both internationally and domestically.

Spanning 100 hectares, it is the largest artificial lake in Fujian Province. Allow at least two to three hours to fully explore and immerse yourself in this enchanting landscape.

5. Gain insights into the Fujian-Taiwan Connections

Pay a visit to the China Museum of Fujian-Taiwan Kinship, the only national museum that provides a gateway for those keen to learn about the historical, cultural, and familial relationship between Fujian Province on the Chinese mainland and Taiwan.

The various exhibits shed light on their shared ancestry, cultural roots, and long-standing ties, highlighting the historical evolution of both regions.

A Journey Where History, Culture, and Adventure Meet

Visiting Quanzhou is more than just a trip – it’s an opportunity to see China through a different lens. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Quanzhou promises an unforgettable journey that will stay with you long after you return home.

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I Want to Hear from You!

Have you ever ventured off the beaten path in China and discovered a lesser-known city? Share your experience of a place that felt unique or distinct from the usual tourist spots!

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