Xiapu, a Hidden Gem in Fujian—My Perfect Trend-Following Trip!

**Xiapu, Fujian** is located in the northeastern part of Fujian Province and is a county under the jurisdiction of Ningde City. Situated on the coast of eastern Fujian, it is known as the "Hometown of Kelp in China" and the "Hometown of Laver." It is famous for its unique tidal flat scenery, fishing village culture, and status as a photography mecca, attracting a large number of tourists and photography enthusiasts. Here's a detailed introduction to Xiapu: --- ### **1. Geography and Features** - **Tidal Flat Landscape**: Xiapu has a coastline of 480 km. The changing tides and seawater erosion have formed magnificent tidal flat landforms, which are particularly charming when light and shadow intertwine (especially at sunrise and sunset). - **Marine Resources**: Rich in seafood such as kelp, laver, and large yellow croaker, it is an important aquaculture base in China. --- ### **2. Travel Highlights** **(1) Photography Mecca** - **Beiqi Tidal Flat**: Known as the "Most Beautiful Tidal Flat in China," the scene of fishermen working at sunrise intertwined with light and shadow is a classic photography scene. - **Xiaohao Beach**: The colorful tidal flats change with the tides and light, presenting different colors. - **Shajiang S-Bay**: The "S"-shaped waterway formed by bamboo poles inserted into the tidal flats, together with fishing boats and reflections, is extremely picturesque. - **Dongbi Village**: A small fishing village nestled against the mountains and the sea, the golden tidal flats and returning fishing boats at sunset are particularly touching. **(2) Natural and Cultural Scenery** - **Yangjia Creek**: Famous for its ancient banyan trees and morning mist, it is known as "Little Wuyi of Eastern Fujian." - **Yushan Island** (requires a boat trip from Sansha Town, Xiapu): One of the ten most beautiful islands in China, the island has vast grasslands and Tianhu Lake. - **Dongan Fishing Rafts**: A fishing village on the sea, thousands of fishing rafts are connected to form a "Venice on the Sea," where you can experience the life of fishermen. - **Banyueli She Ethnic Village**: A well-preserved ancient She ethnic village with Qing Dynasty ancient dwellings and traditional folk culture. --- ### **3. Specialty Cuisine** - **Jian Razor Clam**: A razor clam unique to Xiapu, with plump meat, common cooking methods include salt baking and steaming. - **Kelp Sprout Soup**: Fresh kelp sprouts paired with local fish balls, refreshing and delicious. - **Laver Cake**: Made with Xiapu's first-harvest laver, crispy, salty, and fragrant. - **Dried Shrimp**: Excellent quality, a local specialty dried seafood. --- ### **4. Travel Tips** - **Best Season**: - **April–June**: Kelp harvest season, the scene of kelp drying on the tidal flats is spectacular. - **September–November**: Crisp autumn air, the beginning of laver farming, rich in labor scenes. - Avoid the typhoon season from July to August. - **Transportation**: - High-speed Rail: Direct access to "Xiapu Station," then charter a car or rent a car to travel to the scenic spots (the scenic spots are scattered, self-driving/chartered cars are more convenient). - Self-driving: About 2.5 hrs from Fuzhou to Xiapu, about 3 hrs from Wenzhou. - **Accommodation**: There are many seaside guesthouses in Dongbi Village and Sansha Town, suitable for photography enthusiasts to get up early for shooting. --- ### **5. Cultural Experiences** - **She Ethnic Culture**: Xiapu is a settlement of the She ethnic group. You can visit She ethnic villages and experience traditional costumes, songs and dances, and customs such as Wumifan (black rice). - **Fishing Culture**: Participate in fishing activities such as fishing for small seafood and digging for razor clams, and experience coastal life. --- Xiapu is a treasure land that blends natural scenery and cultural heritage. Whether it's photography, seafood cuisine, or the slow-paced fishing village life, it will make you linger. When planning your itinerary, it is recommended to pay attention to the tide times and weather in advance for the best experience!