Fuding | A Mountain and Sea Escape from the Bustle

| A Mountain and Sea Escape from the Bustle. Fuding, this hidden gem nestled along the northeastern coast of Fujian, boasts breathtaking scenery rivaling popular tourist spots and mouthwatering local delicacies. Pack your bags and join me on this exclusive Fuding adventure! Itinerary Day 1: Taimu Mountain – Marvel at the Majestic "Fairyland on the Sea" Morning: Depart from the city center to Taimu Mountain and begin your hiking journey. Upon entering the scenic area, you'll be greeted by a stunning array of granite peaks. The Husband-and-Wife Peak resembles a couple gazing affectionately at each other, so lifelike it’s astonishing. Trek along steep mountain paths and pass through the narrow yet fascinating "One-Line Sky," marveling at nature's craftsmanship. Noon: Enjoy local farmhouse dishes at a restaurant within the Taimu Mountain scenic area. The highland vegetables are refreshing and crisp, while the free-range chicken soup is fragrant and nourishing. Afternoon: Stroll around Jiuli Lake and admire its emerald-green waters, with surrounding mountain peaks reflected like a picturesque landscape. Then visit the romantic wisteria flower corridor—if you're lucky to catch the blooming season, the cascading purple blossoms are a sight to behold. Day 2: Yushan Island – Encounter the "Wugong Mountain on the Sea" Morning: Take a boat to Yushan Island. Feel the sea breeze and enjoy the ocean views along the way, lifting your spirits. Noon: Savor freshly caught seafood at a local fishing village—steamed grouper, spicy stir-fried crabs, and poached shrimp, each bite a gift from the sea. Afternoon: Hike to the mountaintop to visit the Great and Small Tianhu Lakes. The crystal-clear waters contrast beautifully with the vast highland meadows, making you feel like you're in a grassland beyond the Great Wall. You might even encounter adorable grazing cows and sheep. As evening falls, sit on the grass and admire the stunning sunset, with the sky and sea painted in brilliant shades of orange and red. Day 3: Niulanggang Beach – Embrace the Sun, Sand, and Waves Morning: Head to Niulanggang Beach, where the fine white sand glistens under the sun. Change into your swimsuit and dive into the ocean for a refreshing swim, or play in the sand and collect seashells. Noon: Feast on seafood at a beachside stall—fresh oyster omelets, delicious fish ball soup, and crispy fried ribbon fish will immerse your taste buds in oceanic flavors. Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk along the coastline to explore unique rock formations and watch waves crash against them, sending sprays into the air. When tired, relax on a beach chair with coconut water in hand, enjoying a laid-back afternoon. Food Highlights 🥢 • Fuding Sliced Pork: A must-try! Sour and spicy, with tender, chewy meat slices. Found everywhere in the city, "One More Bowl" is highly recommended for a hearty, satisfying meal. • Frosted Taro: Made with Fuding’s specialty betel nut taro, deep-fried and coated in sugar frost—crispy outside, soft inside, sweet but not cloying. The stalls at North Market serve the best. • Seafood Stalls: Don’t miss Shihu Community’s seafood street, where live seafood is cooked to order. Fresh razor clams, oysters, and crabs are served in their purest, most delicious form. • Fuding White Tea: Take a break at a teahouse and sip Fuding white tea. The fresh and brisk Baihao Yinzhen or the mellow and rich White Peony will relax both body and mind with their fragrant aroma. Accommodation Recommendations 🛏 • New Century Grand Hotel (Ningde Fuding Binjiang Times City Branch): Comfortable environment, attentive service, and a prime location for easy travel. • Fuding Taimu Hotel: Budget-friendly with warm hospitality and convenient parking, ideal for cost-conscious travelers. • Nomi Aman Island Homestay (Yushan Island): A great choice if staying on Yushan Island. Its Instagram-worthy white design features private pools and stunning sea views. Travel Tips 🚗 • Transportation: Fuding is easily accessible via Fuding Railway Station. For attractions, take a direct shuttle to Taimu Mountain, a boat from Yujing Pier to Yushan Island, or a taxi/bus to Niulanggang Beach. • Essentials: Bring your ID, sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat), swimwear, comfortable sneakers, and basic medications. • Notes: Check weather and ferry schedules in advance for Yushan Island. Follow safety signs at the beach and avoid hazardous areas.