Quanzhou（泉州）: The Harbor of a Thousand Faiths
Quanzhou, located in Fujian Province on China’s southeastern coast, is a historic port city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and maritime history. During the Song and Yuan Dynasties (10th–14th centuries), Quanzhou was one of the busiest seaports in the world, serving as a major hub on the Maritime Silk Road. Traders from Arabia, Persia, India, and Southeast Asia once gathered here, bringing goods, religions, and ideas that shaped the city’s diverse culture.
Today, Quanzhou is home to a unique blend of Han Chinese traditions, ancient temples, mosques, and Christian churches, reflecting its multicultural past. Landmarks like the Kaiyuan Temple, Luoyang Bridge, Qingjing Mosque, and Guanyue Temple illustrate this diversity. The city is also known for its traditional arts, including puppet theater, Nanyin music, and delicate Minnan architecture.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021 under the title “Quanzhou: Emporium of the World in Song-Yuan China,” the city is a living museum of global trade and cultural exchange. With its warm hospitality, historical depth, and spiritual charm, Quanzhou offers a fascinating window into China’s global connections and peaceful coexistence through centuries of history.
The Places You Absolutely Must Visit：
Kaiyuan Temple (开元寺)
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Kaiyuan Temple, located in Quanzhou, Fujian, is the largest Buddhist temple in the city and one of the most important in southeast China. Originally built in 686 AD during the Tang Dynasty, it has undergone numerous restorations over the centuries. The temple complex features grand halls, serene courtyards, and two impressive five-story stone pagodas—East and West Pagodas—constructed in the Song Dynasty. The architectural style blends traditional Chinese and South Asian elements, reflecting Quanzhou’s history as a major port on the Maritime Silk Road. The temple is still active today, hosting religious ceremonies and attracting visitors and pilgrims. Kaiyuan Temple is not only a spiritual center but also a symbol of Quanzhou’s historical openness and cultural fusion. It was recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing of Quanzhou: Emporium of the World in Song-Yuan China in 2021.
Bell Tower (钟楼)
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The Bell Tower of Quanzhou stands at the intersection of Zhongshan Road and other key streets, acting as a symbolic center of the ancient city. Originally constructed in the Ming Dynasty, it served as a timekeeping structure and a civic symbol. While the current structure is a modern reconstruction, it retains traditional Chinese architectural aesthetics with layered eaves and red wooden detailing. The tower once housed a large bronze bell used to signal the time and alert the population in emergencies. Today, it serves as a popular landmark and photo spot, surrounded by bustling shops and local street food vendors. The Bell Tower area embodies the fusion of ancient charm and modern vitality. As night falls, the structure is beautifully illuminated, making it a vibrant focal point of the city. It is a must-visit for anyone exploring the cultural heritage of Quanzhou.
Chaotian Gate (朝天门)
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Chaotian Gate, literally “Gate Facing Heaven,” is one of Quanzhou’s historic city gates and a relic from the Ming Dynasty. Located on the eastern side of the old city, it once served as a major entrance for imperial envoys and important guests arriving by sea. The gate faces the sea and once symbolized the connection between Quanzhou and the outside world during its peak as a port on the Maritime Silk Road. Though much of the original wall has disappeared, the gate structure and adjacent remnants have been preserved and restored. Its stonework and archway design showcase traditional Ming military architecture. Visitors often walk through it to imagine the bustling scenes of ancient maritime trade. Nearby plaques and displays provide historical context. Chaotian Gate stands as a solemn reminder of Quanzhou’s open-door legacy and its role as a world emporium in ancient China.
Luojia Temple (洛伽寺)
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Luojia Temple, also known as Luojia Monastery, is a tranquil Buddhist sanctuary nestled near the mountains of Quanzhou. Named after Mount Luojia in Buddhist tradition, it is associated with Avalokiteshvara (Guanyin), the bodhisattva of compassion. Though not as famous as Kaiyuan Temple, Luojia Temple offers a more intimate spiritual experience. Surrounded by ancient trees and rock formations, the temple complex includes prayer halls, meditation rooms, and traditional pavilions. Its peaceful setting attracts monks, devotees, and travelers seeking solitude. The temple’s architecture reflects Ming and Qing styles, and its well-preserved carvings and incense rituals highlight the depth of Chinese Buddhist culture. With fewer crowds and a calm atmosphere, it is ideal for quiet reflection. Many locals come to the temple to pray for blessings and good fortune. Luojia Temple embodies the meditative beauty of Quanzhou’s lesser-known spiritual sites.
Luoyang Bridge (洛阳桥)
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Luoyang Bridge, also known as Wan’an Bridge, is one of China’s earliest stone beam bridges built over tidal waters. Constructed during the Northern Song Dynasty in the 11th century, it spans the Luoyang River and is considered an engineering marvel of its time. The bridge is nearly 800 meters long and was built using innovative techniques, including oyster cultivation to reinforce the underwater foundation. This unique method made the structure incredibly durable. Decorated with stone lions and pagoda-shaped columns, the bridge is not just functional but also artistic. It served as a key route for transportation and trade, linking Quanzhou to other regions. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the city’s ingenuity. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021, Luoyang Bridge stands as a testament to the scientific and cultural achievements of ancient China.
Guanyue Temple (关岳庙)
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Guanyue Temple in Quanzhou is dedicated to two important Chinese historical figures: Guan Yu, the god of war and loyalty, and Yue Fei, a patriotic general of the Southern Song Dynasty. The temple honors values like bravery, righteousness, and loyalty, making it a spiritual site with strong Confucian undertones. It is one of the few temples in China dedicated jointly to both figures. Built during the Ming Dynasty, it features classic Chinese architecture with red pillars, sweeping roofs, and intricately carved wooden beams. Statues of Guan Yu and Yue Fei stand in the main hall, surrounded by incense offerings and prayer plaques. The temple attracts locals and tourists alike who come to pay respects and pray for justice, strength, and protection. It also serves as a cultural venue during festivals and memorial events. Guanyue Temple reflects the deep historical consciousness and moral values of Chinese society.
Quanzhou Cuisine
Quanzhou cuisine, part of Fujian’s famous Min cuisine, is known for its light yet flavorful taste, skillful use of seafood, and emphasis on freshness. The food reflects both coastal influences and centuries of cultural exchange along the Maritime Silk Road. Local dishes often balance sweet and savory flavors, using ingredients like ginger, garlic, and local herbs. Popular street snacks and traditional delicacies show the region’s creativity and love for unique textures. Quanzhou’s food culture also values slow cooking and broths. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of foods—from hearty soups to refreshing cold dishes—each telling a story of heritage.
Ginger Duck (姜母鸭)
Ginger Duck, or Jiangmu Ya, is a warm, nourishing dish especially popular in cooler months. Made by simmering duck meat with mature ginger, sesame oil, rice wine, and Chinese herbs, it has a bold, spicy aroma that comforts the body and boosts circulation. In Quanzhou, it’s often enjoyed as a medicinal meal, believed to ward off cold and fatigue. The duck becomes tender while absorbing the rich, fragrant broth. Served in clay pots, it’s both a delicious and therapeutic dish, often eaten during seasonal changes. Locals consider it a winter must-have and a symbol of Fujian’s medicinal food traditions.
Sea Worm Jelly (土笋冻)
Sea Worm Jelly, known as Tusun Dong, is one of Quanzhou’s most unusual and beloved snacks. It’s made from boiling a type of marine peanut worm until the liquid sets into a clear, jelly-like texture upon cooling. Often served cold with vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and chili, this dish is prized for its refreshing taste and unique mouthfeel. While it may surprise first-time visitors, locals see it as a nostalgic comfort food and a symbol of coastal ingenuity. Despite its unusual ingredients, Sea Worm Jelly is cherished for its light flavor, cooling properties, and cultural significance in Quanzhou.
Mianxian (面线 / Vermicelli)
Mianxian, or thin wheat vermicelli, is a staple in Quanzhou’s daily life and rituals. Long and silky, it symbolizes longevity and is often served during birthdays and festivals. The noodles are typically handmade and used in various ways—boiled in soups, stir-fried, or paired with pork, seafood, and vegetables. A classic version, Mianxian Hu, is a flavorful soup with minced meat, mushrooms, and a light, savory broth. In Quanzhou, eating mianxian is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition that connects families and carries deep cultural meaning. Its versatility and smooth texture make it a local favorite across generations.
Roast Meat Zongzi (烧肉粽)
Roast Meat Zongzi, or Shaorou Zong, is a savory rice dumpling wrapped in bamboo leaves, filled with flavorful roasted pork belly, chestnuts, and sometimes mushrooms or salted egg yolk. Unlike the sweet northern versions, Quanzhou’s zongzi highlight umami and richness. The glutinous rice absorbs the savory juices during hours of steaming, creating a sticky, aromatic treat. These zongzi are especially popular during the Dragon Boat Festival but can be found year-round in local markets. For many locals, eating shaorou zong is tied to childhood memories and festival traditions, representing a perfect blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and mouthwatering taste.
The best time to visit
The best time to visit Quanzhou is during autumn, from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, dry, and comfortable—perfect for exploring the city’s historic streets, temples, and coastal scenery. Temperatures usually range between 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), with low humidity and clear skies. It’s an ideal season for outdoor activities like walking around the ancient port, visiting the famous Kaiyuan Temple, or enjoying local snacks in open-air markets. Spring (March to May) is also pleasant, with blooming flowers and fresh greenery, though it can be more humid. Summer tends to be hot and rainy, while winter is cool but rarely freezing. Autumn not only offers great weather but also a vibrant atmosphere with local festivals and seasonal foods like roasted chestnuts and ginger duck. For the most comfortable and scenic experience, plan your Quanzhou trip in the fall.
Transportation in Quanzhou
Transportation in Quanzhou is convenient and well-developed, offering visitors multiple options to explore the city and its surroundings. The city is connected by Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport, with flights to major cities in China and some international destinations. High-speed rail is also available, with Quanzhou Railway Station linking to nearby cities like Xiamen, Fuzhou, and beyond.
Within the city, buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable, frequent, and cover almost all major tourist spots, including Kaiyuan Temple, Luoyang Bridge, and Qingjing Mosque. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Didi are also widely used, offering a fast and flexible way to get around. For short distances, e-bikes and shared bicycles are popular, especially in the old town areas.
Though Quanzhou doesn’t have a metro system yet, it’s easy to navigate thanks to clear road signs and organized traffic. Most tourist attractions are relatively close to each other, so walking is also a good option in historic neighborhoods.
If you plan to travel beyond Quanzhou, there are long-distance buses and train services to many cities across Fujian Province and southern China. Overall, transportation in Quanzhou is smooth, efficient, and tourist-friendly.
A 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: History, Religion & City Landmarks
Start your journey at Kaiyuan Temple（开元寺）, the largest and most famous Buddhist temple in Quanzhou. Admire its twin stone pagodas and intricate carvings dating back to the Tang Dynasty.
Next, stroll through West Street, a historic pedestrian area full of local snacks, tea shops, and ancient architecture. In the late morning, visit the Qingjing Mosque（清净寺）, one of the oldest Islamic mosques in China, showcasing Quanzhou’s multicultural past. Have lunch at a local restaurant and try some ginger duck.
In the afternoon, explore the Quanzhou Maritime Museum to learn about the city’s role in the Maritime Silk Road.
End your day at the Bell Tower（钟楼）, beautifully lit at night, and enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant serving Fujian-style dishes.
Day 2: Ancient Bridges, Temples & Local Culture
Start your day early with a visit to Luoyang Bridge（洛阳桥）, one of China’s earliest stone beam bridges, famous for its oyster-based construction technique.
Next, head to Chaotianmen（朝天门）, the ancient harbor gate, which once welcomed ships from across Asia. Around midday, visit Luojia Temple（洛伽寺）, a quiet and spiritual site with beautiful coastal views.
Enjoy lunch with local snacks like peanut soup or sweet potato balls. In the afternoon, stroll through the lanes near Guandi Temple and Guanyue Temple（关岳庙）, a unique dual shrine honoring both Guan Yu and Yue Fei.
Wrap up your day exploring a bustling night market, tasting specialties like tǔsǔn dòng (sea worm jelly) and roast meat zongzi.
Day 3: Old Town Charm & Minnan Traditions
Begin your final day with a slow morning in one of Quanzhou’s traditional neighborhoods, taking in the red-brick Minnan architecture and peaceful alleyways.
Visit a tea house to experience local tea culture. Later, head to a folk craft workshop to see how hand-pulled noodles or incense are made. For lunch, try miànxiàn (rice vermicelli) with local broth.
In the afternoon, visit Qingyuan Mountain if you want nature and panoramic city views, or return to Kaiyuan Temple for a second look.
Before leaving, stop at a local souvenir shop to pick up teas, snacks, or handmade items. Have a farewell dinner featuring your favorite Quanzhou dishes before heading to the train station or airport.
A journey to Quanzhou is a walk through centuries of maritime glory, religious harmony, and vibrant southern Fujian culture.
