I've been to Ningde five times, and here's the perfect itinerary! Inspired by a song to visit a city
Hey friends😎, has a song ever made you yearn for a place where mountains meet the sea, a place full of mystery and charm, so much so that you wanted to experience its unique magic immediately? That's exactly what happened to me with the song "Light of Ningde." The lyrics, "Ningde's mountains and seas, how many wonders are hidden? Taimu Mountain stands tall, Sandu'ao vast and boundless, the morning mist of Yangjia Creek, dreamlike and illusory, the clear stream of Huotong Creek, flowing gently," along with the melodious tune, transported me to Ningde's fantastic peaks, strange rocks, and blue seas. It inspired me to embark on a journey to explore eastern Fujian. So, in March, I set foot on this vibrant land. Check out my travel guide!
Ningde, located in the northeastern part of Fujian Province, is a city🎉 with beautiful natural scenery and a rich cultural heritage. In March, the chill of winter fades away in Ningde, replaced by a gentle warmth. Spring flowers bloom in the mountains, a soft sea breeze blows along the coast, and ancient villages stand against the backdrop of magnificent mountains and seas. Every corner exudes a captivating charm.
✈️【Transportation Guide】
If you're flying, you can arrive at Fuzhou Changle International Airport or Wenzhou Longwan International Airport and then take a high-speed train to Ningde. Trains are frequent and very convenient. Ningde Railway Station and Ningde South Bus Station offer convenient access to public transportation. Buses and taxis can easily take you to various parts of the city and major attractions. Within the city, buses cover most areas. If you want to visit coastal attractions like Sandu'ao and Xiapu, rent an e-bike and ride along the coastline, enjoying the sea breeze and stopping to admire the seascape whenever you like. If you're heading to mountain attractions like Taimu Mountain and Baiyun Mountain, take a special tourist bus or a long-distance bus from the bus station to explore the hidden beauty of the mountains.
🗺【Itinerary】
Day 1: Sandu'ao - Doumu Island - Seafood Stalls
After arriving in Ningde in the morning, head straight to Sandu'ao. Take a boat trip out to sea, and you'll be amazed by the sight of numerous fishing rafts floating on the water, resembling a "floating city on the sea"😍. Visit Doumu Island to explore the magical shell rocks and admire the wonders of the sea-eroded landscape. Have a delicious seafood lunch at the seafood stalls, savoring fresh seafood like steamed large yellow croaker and boiled shrimp. The ingredients are sourced directly from the ocean, guaranteeing authentic flavors.
Day 2: Xiapu - Beiqi Mudflats - Xiaohao Beach - Dongbi
Head to Xiapu early in the morning. This place is known as "China's most beautiful mudflats." First, go to the Beiqi Mudflats to watch the sunrise. As the golden sunlight spills onto the mudflats, the interplay of light and shadow creates a dreamlike scene. After lunch nearby, head to Xiaohao Beach, where the colorful sands and waves create a paradise for photographers. In the evening, visit Dongbi to admire the sunset over the sea. The orange-red sky merges with the ocean, creating stunning photo opportunities📷.
Day 3: Taimu Mountain - Fuding White Tea Cultural Experience Center (optional)
In the morning, visit Taimu Mountain, a national geopark with numerous grotesque peaks and bizarre rocks. Stroll along the mountain trails, wander through caves and stone forests, and marvel at the wonders of nature. After lunch near the scenic area, if you're interested in tea culture, visit the Fuding White Tea Cultural Experience Center to learn about the history and production process of white tea and savor its mellow flavor.
Day 4: Yangjia Creek - Return Trip
Visit Yangjia Creek, where ancient banyan trees, Chinese wingnuts, and a babbling stream create a picturesque rural landscape. In the early morning, shrouded in mist, it resembles a fairyland. If you're lucky, you might even see farmers leading their oxen to work, adding to the rustic charm. After your visit, prepare for your return trip, leaving with wonderful memories.
🌟【Must-See Attractions】
1. Sandu'ao: Explore the "floating city on the sea" and experience the unique marine fishing landscape.
2. Xiapu: Capture the interplay of light and shadow on the mudflats, admire the beautiful coastal scenery, and freeze those breathtaking moments.
3. Taimu Mountain: Climb the geological wonders and experience the magnificence and magic of nature.
4. Yangjia Creek: Immerse yourself in the morning mist of the countryside and experience the rustic charm of the village.
📝【Practical Tips】
Book tickets for popular attractions like Sandu'ao boat trips and Taimu Mountain in advance. There's a large temperature difference between day and night in Ningde in March, so remember to bring warm clothes🧥. Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
🍲【Local Food Recommendations】
1. Ningde Large Yellow Croaker: Tender and nutritious, steaming is the best way to bring out its delicious flavor.
2. Fuding Meat Slices: Sour, spicy, and chewy, this is a local specialty snack.
3. Pingnan Mandarin Duck Noodles: Made from the starch of a local wild plant, these noodles have a unique and distinctive flavor.
🏨【Hotel Accommodation】
1. Ningde City Center: Wanda Realm Ningde. Excellent location, convenient transportation, comfortable rooms, and attentive service.
2. Xiapu: Xiapu Di Jing International Hotel. Close to the mudflat attractions, convenient for watching sunrise and sunset, and offers a great stay experience.
❗【Tips】
1. When dining at seafood stalls, pay attention to the freshness of the seafood and be wary of being shortchanged.
2. When photographing the mudflats in Xiapu, check the tide times in advance and choose the best shooting spot.
3. Pay attention to safety when visiting Taimu Mountain and follow the signs in the scenic area.
Ningde is truly amazing, with tons of delicious food and beautiful scenery. Follow this guide, and you're guaranteed a fun and fulfilling trip. Let's go🚀!