I've been to Quanzhou 11 times! Here's my carefully curated, super detailed travel guide.

Quanzhou, a city brimming with historical charm and vibrant street life, offers new surprises with every visit. Here's my meticulously compiled guide to help you navigate Quanzhou with ease! 🚗【Transportation Guide】 - High-Speed Rail: Take the high-speed rail or train to Quanzhou Station or Quanzhou East Station. From the station, you can take a taxi or bus to your hotel. - By Air: Fly to Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport (JJN). The airport is 12 km from the city center. From the airport, you can take the airport bus, a public bus, or a taxi for a more comfortable journey. - Driving/Car Rental: Driving is convenient for those living near Quanzhou. If you prefer not to drive your own car, renting a car is also a good option. Attractions like Shishi, Jinjiang Wulinshan Historical and Cultural Village, and Windmill Island are further from the city center, making driving or renting a car more convenient. 💛Suggested Itinerary - Day 1: Embark on a cultural journey. Stroll through Kaiyuan Temple, immersing yourself in its solemn atmosphere and rich history. Then, step onto West Street, experiencing the bustling old street under the gaze of the East and West Pagodas. Check in at Xiaoxicheng to find Bai Yansong's famous quote. Visit the iconic Clock Tower and explore the unique charm of Zhongshan Street. - Day 2: Delve deeper into Minnan culture. Visit Guandi Temple, admiring the distinctive Minnan temple architecture. Then, head to Tianhou Temple, the oldest and largest existing Mazu temple. In the afternoon, visit Xunpu Village and experience the unique customs of the flower-wearing Xunpu women, adorning your hair with the romance of spring. - Day 3: Explore history and nature. Visit Wulinshan Historical and Cultural Village in Jinjiang and relive the nostalgia of the old Nanyang days. Afterward, spend half a day at Luojia Temple, enjoying the temple, the sea, and the sunset. 💛In-Depth Guide to Attractions - West Street: One of the liveliest streets in Quanzhou, with the East and West Pagodas standing at either end. Ascend to the rooftop for a panoramic view of the street scene and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Quanzhou. - Xiaoxicheng: Home to the famous landmark featuring Bai Yansong's quote, "Quanzhou, a city you must visit at least once in your lifetime." Don't miss the photo opportunity! - Xunpu Village: Dress in traditional attire, adorn your hair with vibrant flowers, and experience the unique customs of the Xunpu women, capturing the romance of spring in your hair. - Kaiyuan Temple: The two Song Dynasty stone pagodas (commonly known as the East and West Pagodas) are symbols of Quanzhou. With their rich history and exquisite architecture, they are a must-see. - Clock Tower: Located at the end of West Street, this landmark building has witnessed the city's transformation and is a popular spot for photos. - Wulinshan Historical and Cultural Village in Jinjiang: This 600-year-old village showcases a blend of Nanyang-style architecture and Minnan culture. Strolling through the village feels like stepping back in time. - Guandi Temple: A representative of Minnan temple architecture, its rich religious atmosphere and unique architectural style will captivate you. - Tianhou Temple: The oldest and largest existing Mazu temple, where you can learn about Mazu culture and experience its unique charm. - Luojia Temple: Nestled between mountains and facing the sea, this temple offers stunning scenery. At sunset, the golden glow bathes the temple in breathtaking beauty. - Windmill Island: White windmills, azure seas, golden beaches, and rugged rocks create a picturesque island landscape, perfect for photography. - Quanzhou Big Character Walls: Quanzhou boasts many unique and internet-famous big character walls. Don't forget to take photos and create lasting travel memories. - Shishi Golden Coast: This romantic and beautiful coastline, along with the nearby Luojia Temple, offers opportunities to enjoy the sun, sand, and the charm of the sea. 💛Best Photo Spots - Quanzhou Poster: Located in Lane 711 near the Clock Tower, this spot offers a perfect photo opportunity with a strong Quanzhou vibe. - Quanzhou Clock Tower: Situated at the intersection of West Street, this Quanzhou landmark makes a great backdrop for stunning photos. - East and West Pagodas: Capture the perfect shot of the twin pagodas from the Meichao Feng rooftop for a unique perspective. 💛Must-Try Food - Sidan Ginger Duck: Tender duck meat infused with rich ginger flavor, each bite is pure bliss. - Misua: This smooth and flavorful soup, often served with youtiao (fried dough sticks), is a local favorite. - Wu's Handmade Machi: Soft, glutinous, and sweet, with a variety of fillings, this treat is a burst of sweetness in every bite. - Auntie's Chicken Frames: Crispy and delicious, the tender chicken and crispy skin create a perfect combination. - Tong'an Fragrant Bone Chicken Leg: Tender and juicy meat with a crispy skin and an irresistible aroma. - Auntie Zhuang's Taro Cake: Crispy on the outside, sweet and soft on the inside, this taro cake is a dessert lover's dream. 💛Accommodation Recommendations - Holidays: Choose hotels near Wanda Plaza for relatively affordable prices and a quiet environment, perfect for resting after a day of exploring. - Non-Holidays: Stay in West Street for a lively and convenient experience, close to shops, restaurants, and attractions. 💛Travel Tips - Convenient Transportation: Getting around Quanzhou is easy with public buses, shared e-bikes, and scenic shuttle buses. - Driving Caution: The old town has narrow and congested roads. Driving is not recommended, as it may delay your itinerary. - Book Accommodation in Advance: During holidays, book your accommodation in advance to avoid price surges and budget issues. - Xunpu Village Flower Arrangement: The standard price in Xunpu Village is CNY 40 for flower arrangement and two outfits. For a more stunning effect, consider pairing it with a mamian skirt for elegant and sophisticated photos.