12 Days Fujian Trip

Today, you will take the flight to Xiamen, the capital city of Fujian. Upon arrival, we will meet you at the airport, and help check in your hotel. Have a good rest.

Embark on a charming morning adventure with a captivating 20-minute boat ride to the enchanted island of Gulangyu Island. Here, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Overseas Chinese culture, letting the allure of exotic architectures transport you to a faraway land. Before venturing further, make your way to Hi Heaven, the island's crown jewel, a venerable old villa that whispers tales of bygone eras. 

As you stroll through the enchanting Shuzhuang Garden, a verdant oasis by the sea, your senses will be captivated by its serenity and beauty. Don't miss the famous Piano Museum, a veritable symphony of sound, housing a magnificent collection of 80 rare old pianos.

As the sun begins to set, embark on a leisurely visit to the Xiamen Botancial Garden, a verdant oasis of tranquility and natural beauty. Amble time will be granted for you to explore its lush greenery, admire its breathtaking flora, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of some of its resident wildlife. After this delightful excursion, return to your hotel, refreshed and rejuvenated, ready to embark on the next leg of your journey.

After indulging in a scrumptious buffet breakfast, prepare for a 1.5-hour journey to the captivating town of Anxi, renowned as the birthplace of Tieguanyin and the heartland of Oolong tea. Embark on an exciting exploration of the tea-making process at the Bama Tea Garden and Factory, a leading producer in the region. As you stroll through the lush garden, take a moment to savor the diverse flavors of Oolong tea.

After a satisfying lunch, journey to Tea Capital, China's largest wholesale market for Tieguanyin (Oolong Tea). Here, immerse yourself in the rich tea culture. Additionally, visit Chenghuangmiao, the ancient and esteemed Taoism temple in Anxi, also known as the Old City God Temple. Once the tour concludes, return to the comforts of your hotel in Xiamen.

After breakfast at the hotel, we'll embark on a journey to South Putuo Temple, nestled along the Island Ring Road on Xiamen's East Coast. This temple stands as the most revered Buddhist shrine in Fujian. Our journey continues to Quanzhou, a historical port city that once flourished on the Maritime Silk Route, earning praise from Marco Polo as "one of the busiest ports in the world."

Later, we'll visit Kaiyuan Temple and the nearby East & West Pagodas, which boast the title of China's best-preserved stone pagodas. If curiosity strikes, we can explore Qingjing Mosque, the oldest mosque in China. Our final stop is Guandi Temple in Xunpu Village, a charming oyster village located 10 kilometers southeast of Quanzhou. Here, we'll admire the traditional houses crafted with oyster shells and meet the women renowned for their unique attire. After these enriching tours, we'll return to the comforts of Xiamen.

Embark on an exciting journey to Nanjing, where the Tulou villages, declared as World Cultural Heritage sites, await your exploration. Our first stop is Tianluokeng Tulou, nestled in Shangban Village. This complex of earthen houses, boasting four round and one rectangular style, stands as one of the most magnificent and well-preserved Hakka castles in the region.

Next, we'll visit Yuchanglou in Xiaban Village. This ancient five-story earth building, renowned for its tilted pillars and slanted angles at a remarkable 15-degree, has stood for over 600 years, yet remains intact.

After a satisfying lunch, we'll head to Taxia Village, a charming Hakka village where more than 20 earthen buildings of various shapes line a brook flowing through the entire village. Another must-see is Zhang's Clan Ancestral Hall, surrounded by a pond and 20 stone flagpoles resembling a stone forest. This is a national-level cultural relic, rich in historical significance.

Our final destination is Chengqilou, situated in Gaobei Village, about 5 km from Hongkeng Tulou. This King of Round Earth Buildings comprises four concentric circular structures with a rich history spanning over 300 years. Boasting 400 rooms, it once housed 80 families.

As the sun sets, we'll settle in for a comfortable night's stay in Nanjing.

One more day for Tulou trip.

Our first port of call is the charming Chuxi Tulou Cluster, a mere 15 kilometers away from the bustling Xiayang Town. This enclave of antiquity boasts five majestic circular edifices and ten stately rectangular buildings, each telling a tale of time and tradition. Amongst them, Jiqinglou stands proud as the oldest and most enigmatic round earth building in the region. It's a maze of 72 stairways and 206 rooms, intricately crafted with wood and rabbet joints, like a puzzle waiting to be solved.

As we delve deeper into the mysteries of these ancient dwellings, our journey leads us to Yanxianglou. Nestled in the serene town of Nanxi, this Qing Dynasty gem exudes a luxurious yet scholarly ambiance. Its gates and fences mimic the majestic curves of a dragon's head and body, a fitting metaphor for the grandeur and dignity of this historical abode.

As the sun begins to set, our final destination awaits: Huanjilou, a testament to resilience and history. Built during the reign of the illustrious Emperor Kangxi, it survived the wrath of a 6.2-magnitude earthquake in 1918, standing tall as a beacon of strength. This historic structure also served as a base for the valiant Red Army of China, echoing its role as a sentinel of revolution and progress.

Stay in Nanjing overnight.

Embark on your day with a scrumptious breakfast, and then embark on a journey to Shiqiao Village, nestled in the mountainous terrain along a profound valley, rising gracefully 400 meters above sea level. Shiqiao, a serene mountain village, offers a glimpse into the fascinating Tulou houses, each with its own unique charm and history.

Another destination not to be missed is the awe-inspiring Hekeng Tulou Cluster, situated in the charming town of Shuyang. This extensive cluster boasts 27 earthen houses, making it one of the most impressive sights in the region. Moreover, it holds the distinction of being one of the ten Tulous inscribed as World Cultural Heritage.

Embark on a daylong exploration of Mount Wuyi, a UNESCO-recognized World Natural and Cultural Heritage Site. Drift peacefully down the Nine Twists Stream, gliding on bamboo rafts between majestic mountain peaks. Next, delve briefly into the historical Wuyi Palace nestled on Song Street. Your journey concludes with a visit to the Dahongpao Scenic Area, where you'll witness the lush plantations of prized Dahongpao tea trees.

Start your day by visiting Xiamei Village, nestled in the eastern reaches of Wuyishan City, just 8 kilometers from the scenic spot. This charming village boasts a rich history spanning from the Shang and Zhou dynasties to the prosperous Qing Dynasty. Xiamei is renowned as a historical and cultural gem in China. During your visit, observe a local tea artisan at work and learn the intricacies of crafting Wuyi Tea. Then, immerse yourself in the tea-making process by practicing in a local tea house.

After a satisfying breakfast, board the high-speed train to Fuzhou, where you'll visit the Fujian Provincial Museum. Nestled between the picturesque Fuzhou West Lake Park and Fuzhou Zuohai Park, this comprehensive museum houses cultural relics, archaeological finds, historical artifacts, natural specimens, and artworks.

Once you've explored the museum's treasures, set out on a drive to Dongbi Village to catch the sunset in its golden hues. As the sun slowly dips below the horizon, soak in the serene beauty of this charming village.

Spend the night in Xiapu, resting your weary bones after a day of cultural exploration and natural wonder.

Start the day early with a visit to Weijiang Village, also known as Mantou (Steamed Bun) Hill, to capture the breathtaking sunrise. This sacred place offers a rare panorama of the "bright sunrise from a sea," with the steamed-bun-shaped hill framing the scene. Later, embark on a drive to Dong'an Island, aptly nicknamed "Venice on the Sea." This village, composed of thousands of fish tanks and hundreds of wooden houses, is a stunning fish farm where you can witness the concentrated beauty of aquaculture.

Next, visit Banyueli Village, a traditional She Ethnic village that preserves its rich cultural heritage. In the afternoon, explore Yantian Village, a prime filming location for capturing the authentic local fishing culture. Feel free to capture the real-life scenes of the piscatorial families, affectionately known as "sea gypsies," who have long made their homes on their fishing boats in Xiapu.

Time to say goodbbye. Wish you enjoy the trip and looking forwards to see you again.