Quanzhou 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Ancient City (Quanzhou City) **Keywords: Religious culture, ancient streets, Minnan cuisine** **Transportation:** Taxi from Quanzhou Jinjiang Airport to downtown (approx. 30 mins, approx. CNY 50). Walk or take a "Xiaobai" (small white car, hail and ride, CNY 2/person) within the city. 1. 12:00–13:00 Arrive downtown, check in to your hotel, and take a short break. 2. 13:00–14:30 Lunch on West Street + Kaiyuan Temple - West Street Food: Kebilong Tong'an Chicken Drumsticks, Hou Apo Sticky Rice Dumplings, and Misua (Zeng's or Shuimen Guozai), paired with Four Fruit Soup to beat the heat. - Kaiyuan Temple: A Quanzhou landmark. Visit the East and West Pagodas, the red walls, and the Song Dynasty stone carvings (approx. 1.5 hrs). 3. 14:30–15:30 Clock Tower + West Street rooftop photos - Clock Tower: Located at the intersection of West Street and Zhongshan Road. Take photos of the streets during the day and the dazzling lights at night. - West Street Tourist Service Center Rooftop: Free access to the rooftop for panoramic views of the city (with the twin towers of Kaiyuan Temple as a backdrop). 4. 15:30–17:00 Stroll along Zhongshan Road + Fuwen Temple - Zhongshan Road: Nanyang-style arcade buildings, perfect for retro street photography. Cultural and creative shops and cafes line the street (e.g., Youli Rooftop Cafe overlooking West Street). - Fuwen Temple: The largest Confucian temple complex in Southeast China, showcasing a blend of architectural styles from the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Free admission. 5. 17:00–18:30 Pray at Guandi Temple + Qingjing Mosque - Guandi Temple: The most popular temple in Quanzhou, known for its fortune-telling. The lights and incense smoke create a special atmosphere at night. - Qingjing Mosque (optional): The oldest existing mosque in China (CNY 3). Dress respectfully (no shorts, skirts, or tank tops). 6. 19:00–20:30 Dinner + Explore West Street at night - Recommended Minnan dishes: Ginger Duck, Beef Soup, and Oyster Omelette (Dongxing Beef Restaurant or West Street Night Market). - Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the ancient city or attend a free concert at Fuli Minnan Cultural Space. Day 2: Coastal Scenery Tour (Shishi City) **Keywords: Coastal scenery, hidden gems, sunset views** **Transportation:** Chartered car/rental car (downtown to Shishi, approx. 1 hr, approx. CNY 150), or taxi to Quanzhou Passenger Transport Center Station and transfer to a Shishi bus (allow extra time). 1. 08:00 Check out and depart for Shishi. 2. 09:00–11:00 Golden Coast + Luojia Temple - Golden Coast: Stroll along the beach, enjoy the seaside, or try water sports (e.g., jet skis). - Luojia Temple: A temple built on a reef, appearing like a "Buddhist kingdom on the sea" during high tide. Capture stunning photos of the cliffs and the sea. 3. 11:00–13:30 Hongta Bay - A popular beach in Quanzhou with clear water, perfect for swimming or a beach picnic. Nearby seafood stalls offer lunch options. 4. 13:40 Return to Quanzhou City/Go directly to Quanzhou East Railway Station - Chartered car directly to Quanzhou East Railway Station (approx. 1 hr). Catch up on sleep or organize photos during the ride. - If time permits, visit the Maritime History Museum (reservations required). Important Notes 1. Transportation: A chartered car is recommended for Day 2 to ensure efficient time management. Shishi's attractions are close to each other, making self-driving more flexible. 2. Dining: Shishi seafood is fresh but prices vary; inquire beforehand. Quanzhou snacks are small portions, so try multiple places. 3. Attire: Bring a jacket for the windy seaside. Wear long pants/skirts to temples. Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential. 4. Time Management: Strictly manage your return time on Day 2. Depart for Quanzhou East Railway Station before 14:00.