Dual Charms of Fujian: A 4-Day Photographic Journey

Day 1: Old Town Charms & Ancient Alleys Arriving in Fuzhou at dawn, head straight to the "Ming-Qing Architecture Museum" – Three Lanes and Seven Alleys. Cobblestone paths connect the Lin Zexu Memorial Hall and Bingxin's Former Residence, while Yanfu Academy offers snippets of Min Opera performances. The heart-shaped tree at the alley's end is a favorite photo spot. For lunch, try the "Three-in-One" at Tongli Rouyan Old Shop, savoring the springy texture of this intangible cultural heritage dish. Stroll through Shangxiang in the afternoon, where repurposed dock cafes mingle with red-brick ancient houses. At dusk, ascend Liberation Bridge for a panoramic view of Zhongzhou Island's European-style nightscape, with lights painting the Min River. Day 2: Mountain Vistas & Cultural Treasures Hike up Mount Gu early to see the Min River ribboning below via cable car. Yongquan Temple's vegetarian meal (¥15) is hearty, and cliff carvings hide Zhu Xi's calligraphy. At Fujian Museum, admire Dehua white porcelain Guanyin statues, then boat on West Lake Park – though spring cherry blossoms fade, summer lotus breezes enchant. Stay in a Taijiang homestay, then explore Daming Night Market: oyster grilled with shrimp oil paired with icy sweet rice delivers authentic local flavors. Day 3: Pingtan North Route – Windmills & Sea A 30-minute high-speed train to Pingtan begins your North Loop drive. Fairy's black reefs clash with waves for apocalyptic shots, while Beigang Village's stone-house craft stores offer unique souvenirs. Speed along the scenic coastal road to Changjiang'ao's spinning sunset wind turbines. During bioluminescent season, head to Northern Bay Ecological Corridor at night – "blue tears" glow like fallen stars. Day 4: South Route Secrets – Reefs & Sands Await sunrise at Longfengtou Beach, then visit Monkey Yan Island – mainland China's closest point to Taiwan, with alien-like rock formations. Lounge on Tanmen Bay's beanbag chairs with guava smoothies and live music. Detour to Dalian Island before departure: Yueju Mountain's terraces and untouched fishing villages feel like a private Mediterranean escape. Mei Xiyue Su – Governor's Mansion (Dongjiekou Metro Station Branch)