Things to do in Zhangzhou

Surrounded by green mountains, the Changjiao River flows through the village. The ancient earthen buildings and towering banyan trees are full of charm. Away from the hustle and bustle, stroll along the ancient paths and immerse yourself in the leisurely years of an ancient Minnan village.

The Dongshan Wind-Moving Stone Scenic Area is located on Dongshan Island in Zhangzhou, Fujian Province. It is a 4A-level scenic area, and its main attraction is the "Number One Wonder Stone in the World," which is listed in "China's Geographical Wonders."

Yunshuiyao Scenic Area was rather average, not as good as I had imagined. One rice paddy was quite beautiful, though. The village of Taxia where I stayed was a pleasant surprise—more rustic and pristine, with a wonderful environment.

Four dishes and one soup, truly living up to the name. From above, it looks like a standard four dishes and one soup; but on site, each dish is unique and wonderful, with round, square, and oval shapes, organically combining different styles, fully demonstrating the superb wisdom of people in the past.

An ancient city is a carrier of a place's history, culture, and customs. Zhangzhou Ancient City, bearing witness to the city's millennia-long history and culture, is a "living fossil" of Zhangzhou's ancient culture and a "living archive" witnessing the city's historical and cultural changes. An ancient city is a repository of memories, emotions, and nostalgia. In the ancient city, you can find the taste of your childhood, hear the everyday chatter of your neighbors, and feel the warmth of home. Here, you can see the historical accumulation of Zhangzhou, feel its cultural heritage, and find your spiritual home. An ancient city is an engine for a place's cultural tourism and economy. In the ancient city, you can taste authentic Minnan snacks, buy handicrafts and intangible cultural heritage products, and enjoy traditional operas and folk performances. Here, you can experience the city's cultural charm, enjoy its cultural benefits, and reap its cultural rewards. Zhangzhou Ancient City is one of Fujian Province's famous historical and cultural cities and an important part of Minnan culture. Founded during the Kaiyuan era of the Tang Dynasty, it has evolved over a thousand years and still retains many precious historical and cultural relics. The ancient city of Zhangzhou is characterized by a network of nine main streets and eighteen lanes, forming a complete and open spatial layout. The nine main streets are: Beijing Road, Xinhua Road, Zhongshan Road, Taiwan Road, Hong Kong Road, Macau Road, Shengli Road, Dananmen Road, and Buzheng Road; the eighteen lanes are: Shuqian Lane, Yuanwen Lane, Yuanwu Lane, Yuanheng Lane, Yuanli Lane, Yuanzhen Lane, Yuanchun Lane, Yuanzheng Lane, Yuancheng Lane, Yuanxiang Lane, Yuanrui Lane, Yuantai Lane, Yuanhua Lane, Yuanqing Lane, Yuanzhi Lane, Yuanren Lane, Yuansheng Lane, and Fuqian Heng Lane.

The Dongshan Wind-Moving Stone Scenic Area truly lives up to its reputation as a landmark of Dongshan Island. The "Number One Wonder Stone in the World" is truly awe-inspiring, with a 200-ton boulder hanging precariously on the cliff edge, swaying slightly in the wind yet remaining standing for millennia. The park also features historical sites such as the Tongshan Ancient City and the Guandi Temple. The coastal boardwalk offers expansive sea views, and the combination of natural wonders and Minnan (Southern Fujian) culture makes for a pleasant stroll with the sea breeze. It's definitely worth a visit when visiting Dongshan Island.

Nanmen Bay, a filming location for the movie "The Left Ear," boasts a colorful fishing village that contrasts beautifully with the azure bay, earning it the nickname "Fujian's Santorini." Online descriptions suggest experiencing authentic fishing village life in the morning, cycling along the embankment to chase the sunset in the evening, and possibly witnessing the "blue tears" phenomenon on the eve of the Lunar New Year.

Before coming, I saw many posts online warning against visiting this place, saying it was desolate and not good. But I actually really liked it. I guess beauty is in the eye of the beholder. My husband also said this was his favorite spot on this trip to Zhangzhou. If you like places with fewer people and the whole beach to yourself, don't miss it!

The scenic area is unique, located in the middle of the sea. You take a speedboat to get there, but you must pay attention to the high and low tide times. You must go during low tide to see the beach in the middle of the sea; during high tide, the beach will be submerged and you won't be able to see anything.