Haven't tasted the 'Sea Pasture' of Xiapu? You might be missing half of the East China Sea!

## Xiapu Travel Guide: China's Most Beautiful Tidal Flats, a Photographer's Paradise and Seafood Haven **Xiapu**, located in northeastern Fujian Province under Ningde City, is the oldest county in eastern Fujian. Boasting China's most stunning tidal flats, it's hailed as a "photographer's paradise" and a pilgrimage site for seafood lovers. The ever-changing tides, interplay of light and clouds, and the daily lives of local fishermen create breathtaking scenery throughout the year. **I. Best Time to Visit** * **Year-round appeal**, with seasonal highlights: * **April-June**: Seaweed harvest season, showcasing spectacular labor scenes ideal for cultural photography. * **July-September**: Typhoon season, but offers brilliant blue waters on clear days perfect for landscape shots. * **October-December**: Laver farming season transforms tidal flats with artistic bamboo pole patterns - the golden period for photography. * **Avoid** July-August typhoons and public holidays due to crowds and inflated accommodation prices. **II. Transportation** * **By Air**: Fuzhou Changle International Airport is the nearest, with high-speed rail or buses connecting to Xiapu. * **By High-Speed Rail**: Xiapu Station has direct routes from Shanghai, Hangzhou, Fuzhou, and Xiamen. * **By Car**: Well-connected roads make self-driving rewarding, with scenic coastal views along the way. **III. Must-Visit Attractions** **1. Beqi Tidal Flats (Free)** * **Highlights**: Xiapu's iconic tidal flats with magical light shows during sunrise/sunset. * **Best Shot**: Hills behind Beqi Village overlooking the entire flats. * **Tip**: Check tide tables - receding tides reveal more dramatic landscapes. **2. Xiaohao Beach (Free)** * **Highlights**: Famous for rainbow-colored tidal patterns left by retreating waves. * **Best Shot**: Hillside behind Xiaohao Village capturing boats amid textured flats. * **Tip**: Afternoon light accentuates the colors beautifully. **3. Dongbi Village (Free)** * **Highlights**: Cliffside fishing village turning into living oil paintings at sunset. * **Best Shot**: Viewing platform showcasing fishing boats returning home. * **Tip**: Stay overnight in village homestays for authentic experiences. **4. Yangjiaxi (¥50 ticket)** * **Highlights**: "Mini Wuyi of East Fujian" featuring ancient banyans and maple forests. * **Best Shot**: Morning light through banyan leaves creating Tyndall effects. * **Tip**: Autumn foliage peaks attract crowds - visit early. **5. Shajiang S-Curve (Free)** * **Highlights**: Signature bamboo pole formations creating elegant S-shapes on water. * **Best Shot**: Rooftop of Shajiang Village school (¥5 cleaning fee required). * **Tip**: Early morning avoids harsh shadows on the patterns. **IV. Photography Tips** * **Gear**: Wide-angle (landscapes), telephoto (details), tripod (long exposures). * **Timing**: Golden hours around sunrise/sunset for soft, colorful light. * **Tides**: Schedule shoots during low tide for maximum tidal flat exposure. * **Techniques**: Use boats/nets as foregrounds; slow shutter for misty water effects. **V. Food Recommendations** * **Seafood**: Must-tries include yellow croaker, razor clams (try scallion oil style), salt-baked prawns, and seaweed soup. * **Local Snacks**: Minnan paste, sweet potato cups, rice dumplings - unique flavors worth exploring. * **Restaurants**: Tip of the Tongue Seafood, New Delicious Garden, Ah Zhong Seafood - affordable and authentic. **VI. Accommodation** * **Xiapu Town**: Budget-friendly options like Putian International Hotel or Chenxi Hotel with good transport links. * **Photo Sites**: Homestays near Beqi, Xiaohao, or Dongbi (book ahead) offer sunrise convenience at premium prices. **VII. Itinerary Suggestions** * **2D1N**: * **Day1**: Beqi sunrise → Xiaohao → Dongbi sunset (overnight). * **Day2**: Shajiang S-Curve → Yangjiaxi → Depart. * **3D2N**: * **Day1**: As above. * **Day2**: Shajiang → Yangjiaxi → Nanwan Oracle Bones (overnight in town). * **Day3**: Huazhu Village sunrise → Depart. **VIII. Important Notes** * **Safety**: Slippery tidal flats require caution - avoid solo exploration. * **Eco-Friendly**: Preserve marine environments - no littering. * **Respect**: Observe local fishermen's work without disruption. * **Weather**: Pack rain gear and sun protection for changeable conditions. **IX. Final Thoughts** Xiapu's magic captivates both photographers and casual travelers alike. May this guide help craft your perfect journey to this coastal wonderland!