Check out these hidden gems in Quanzhou!

When people think of Quanzhou, they often picture the bustling West Street, the ancient Kaiyuan Temple, and the majestic Luoyang Bridge. However, this historical and cultural city holds many lesser-known treasures waiting to be discovered. Follow this guide to experience a different side of Quanzhou. Ancient Charm: Anping Bridge and Cao'an Anping Bridge, the world's longest beam-type stone bridge during the Middle Ages, spans the Jinjiang River and Nan'an, resembling a giant dragon lying on the waves. As the sun sets, the afterglow casts a shimmering light on the stone slabs, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene. Stroll along the bridge, and you'll feel the weight of history wash over you. Here, there are no crowds of tourists, only the sight of local residents going about their daily lives. The picturesque scenery along the way evokes the city's past prosperity. When visiting Anping Bridge, don't miss Cao'an. Nestled halfway up a mountain, surrounded by lush greenery, Cao'an exudes tranquility. Built against natural boulders, it blends seamlessly with nature. Inside, the exquisitely carved statue of Mani, the only one of its kind in the world, stands as a testament to religious solemnity and mystery, transporting you back in time. Intangible Cultural Heritage: Quanzhou Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum Stepping into the Quanzhou Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum is like opening the door to Quanzhou's traditional culture. The museum houses a collection of intangible cultural heritage items, including puppet shows, Liyuan Opera, puppet head carving, and Quanzhou lanterns. Each exhibit and performance embodies the wisdom of the Quanzhou people. Here, you can admire exquisite artifacts, watch captivating performances, and even try your hand at making lanterns or manipulating puppets under the guidance of inheritors of intangible cultural heritage. Park Strolls: Diverse Parks with Unique Charms Quanzhou's parks, each with its own distinct character, offer excellent leisure options. The long-established Donghu Park and Xihu Park are full of local life. At Donghu Park, you can admire the ruins of "Xinghu Lotus Fragrance" and relax in a cafe, while the Ferris wheel exudes pure joy. In Xihu Park, the ancient-style architecture of Peach Blossom Island complements the peach blossoms, creating a scene reminiscent of a Jiangnan water town, perfect for capturing photos with an ancient charm. Parks for families are equally impressive. The Binhai Park fitness and recreation area offers a wealth of facilities, making it a top choice for families with children. The Jinjiang South Bank Ecological Park Children's Park features 10 themed areas where children can play to their hearts' content. Beach parks are ideal for enjoying the sun and sand. Shishi Hongta Bay Coastal Park attracts numerous visitors with its beautiful bay and lush hinterland. Quanzhou Taiwan Investment Zone Yusha Bay Park integrates various functions, allowing you to relax in a cafe or enjoy surfing. Exploring the Ancient City: Surprises in the Alleys of West Street Off the bustling West Street lie many alleys with unique charm. Hat Alley, with its ordinary name, once housed mills during the Qing Dynasty, earning its name from a Minnan dialect homonym. The Tingtong Villa in the alley, built in 1933 by overseas Chinese from Vietnam, is steeped in history. Across from New Street, Little Xicheng is a creative park favored by literary and artistic youth. It features a check-in wall inscribed by Bai Yansong, quiet during the day and lively at night. Pei Alley boasts a red wall perfect for photos, while the Dingxin Pagoda in Jingting Alley is a landmark of the ancient city. Jinchai Alley, Quanzhou's narrowest alley, less than a meter wide, derives its name from its shape. The walls of the ancient houses showcase distinctive Minnan features. Tai Kui Alley is covered in murals, and the Zhan's ancient residence has been transformed into a cultural exhibition hall and cafe, offering views of the East and West Pagodas. The Old Guanyi boasts a rich cultural heritage, with the unique Dongyang Grand Ancestral Hall, a popular spot for young people. Xiangfeng Alley, opposite Kaiyuan Temple, exudes tranquility. The Jiezi Bookstore and Zhaoxu Building within the alley are also full of stories. These hidden corners, though lacking the hustle and bustle of popular attractions, possess a rich cultural heritage and authentic local atmosphere. On your next visit to Quanzhou, escape the crowds and explore these places for an unforgettable travel experience.