Wulin Aihailan Homestay｜Stay in a Century-Old Overseas Chinese Hometown, Encounter Minnan Old Dreams and Nanyang Style

On this trip to Quanzhou, the most delightful place I stayed was the "Aihailan Homestay" hidden in the traditional village of Wulin, Jinjiang. About the Homestay | Living in History Aihailan Homestay is transformed from a century-old overseas Chinese ancestral house in the ancient village, perfectly preserving the red brick walls and swallowtail ridges of Minnan mansions, cleverly blending with the Nanyang-style interior decorations. The room I stayed in had a window facing an ancient pagoda. In the evening, sitting by the window watching the sunset bathe the entire village in golden light, it felt as if time slowed down. Immersive Experience | The Homestay as a Scenic Spot Morning Walk: Early in the morning, before tourists arrive, take a stroll around Wulin led by the homestay’s caretaker. The bluestone paths, mottled wall shadows, Chaodong Tower, Dewei Residence... every building tells a story of going to Nanyang. Afternoon Tea Break: Enjoy a pot of Tieguanyin tea in the homestay’s tea room, or head to the café in the Five-Story House, sitting on traditional bamboo chairs to savor a lazy afternoon. Costume Travel Photography: There are many costume rental shops in the scenic area offering various Nanyang-style Peranakan outfits. Change into these costumes and take photos casually in the ancient village—each shot is full of story and charm. 【Recommended Travel Routes Around the Homestay】 Wulin’s location is excellent, serving as a center to easily connect a wonderful route combining history, culture, natural scenery, and food exploration. 🚶‍♀️ Route 1: In-depth Wulin Tour · Overseas Chinese Culture Experience (1 day) Morning: After enjoying a Minnan-style breakfast at the homestay, deeply explore the traditional village of Wulin, focusing on Chaodong Tower, Five-Story House, and Gun Tower to learn about the rise and fall of overseas Chinese families. Lunch: Dine at the "Old Flavor" restaurant in the village, tasting authentic Minnan dishes like sweet and sour pork and oyster omelet. Afternoon: Shed modern attire and wear historically rich Peranakan costumes, stepping into a Nanyang dream from a century ago, letting your skirt swirl among the carved flower windows and ancient red bricks. Dinner: Choose a specialty restaurant in the village, such as "Nanjia Jihao," to enjoy exquisite Minnan cuisine. Night: Admire the night view of Wulin ancient village, completely different from the daytime—quiet and dreamy. 🚗 Route 2: Maritime Silk Road Famous City · Quanzhou Ancient City Exploration (1-2 days) Morning: Drive about 40 minutes from the homestay to Licheng District, Quanzhou. Stroll along West Street, taste snacks like Yafu spring roll wrappers and Wu’s handmade mochi, and climb the bell tower to overlook the old street. Noon: Near Tumen Street, find a time-honored eatery for a bowl of hot misua soup, paired with fried dough sticks and sweet and sour pork. Afternoon: Visit Kaiyuan Temple (the East and West Pagodas are Quanzhou landmarks), then explore Qingjing Mosque (the oldest existing Islamic mosque in China) and Guanyue Temple to experience Quanzhou’s multicultural "World Religious Museum." Evening: Head to Xunpu Village to experience the "wearing flower wreaths and ivory chopsticks" headdress of Xunpu women and take photos in front of oyster shell houses. 🚗 Route 3: Mountain and Sea Scenery · Shishi Coastal Leisure (1 day) Morning: Depart from the homestay and drive about 30 minutes to Shishi Golden Coast. Walk along the beach and visit Luojia Temple by the sea to feel the grandeur of the "Buddhist Kingdom of Sea and Sky." Noon: Enjoy a fresh and delicious seafood feast at Shishi seafood stalls. Afternoon: Visit Yongning Ancient Walled City, a well-preserved Ming Dynasty anti-pirate fortress. Walking on the ancient city walls, the sense of history is overwhelming. During my days at Aihailan, it felt like I was dreaming about Minnan and Nanyang. This place is not just accommodation but the starting point of a unique cultural journey. If you are tired of the same old hotels, come here and turn your trip into an immersive "life" experience.