The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Quanzhou

Located in the southeastern part of Fujian Province, Quanzhou (泉州) is a coastal city in China with a rich history, diverse culture, and abundant tourist attractions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Quanzhou that will help you gain a better understanding of this fascinating city.

1. What are the top tourist attractions in Quanzhou?

Quanzhou is home to numerous tourist attractions that showcase its unique history, culture, and natural beauty. Some of the must-visit places include:

• Qingjing Mosque: one of the oldest and largest Islamic places of worship in China
• Kaiyuan Temple: a famous Buddhist temple with a history of over 1,300 years
• Quanzhou Maritime Museum: a museum that showcases the city’s rich maritime history and culture
• West Lake Park: a beautiful park with a lake, pagodas, and scenic views of the city
• Guandi Temple: a Taoist temple dedicated to Guan Yu, a famous general in Chinese history

2. What is the best time to visit Quanzhou?

The best time to visit Quanzhou is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is mild and comfortable. During these months, you can enjoy the beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities without being too hot or too cold. However, if you enjoy festivals and cultural events, you may want to visit during the Chinese New Year (usually in January or February) or the Mid-Autumn Festival (usually in September or October).

3. What are the local specialties in Quanzhou?

Quanzhou is well-known for its delicious food, especially its seafood and snacks. Some of the local specialties that you should try include:

• Seafood hotpot: a hot and spicy soup with a variety of fresh seafood
• Oyster omelette: a crispy omelette with fresh oysters and vegetables
• Shrimp dumplings: steamed dumplings with juicy shrimp filling
• Beef noodle soup: a hearty soup with tender beef and chewy noodles
• Li refined cakes: crispy and sweet cakes with a unique flavor

4. What is the transportation system like in Quanzhou?

Quanzhou has a well-developed transportation system that includes buses, taxis, and trains. The city has two railway stations, Quanzhou Station and Quanzhou East Station, which provide convenient access to other cities in China. The local buses are frequent and affordable, and you can buy a rechargeable smart card to use on all buses. Taxis are also readily available, and you can use ride-hailing apps like Didi to book them.

5. What are some cultural etiquettes to keep in mind when visiting Quanzhou?

When visiting Quanzhou, it’s important to keep in mind some cultural etiquettes to show respect to the local customs and traditions. Here are some tips:

• Take off your shoes when entering someone’s home or a temple
• Address people by their formal titles, such as “Sir” or “Madam”
• Always use both hands to receive or give something, especially when it’s a gift
• Don’t touch people’s heads, as it is considered disrespectful
• Avoid pointing with your finger, as it is considered impolite

Conclusion

Quanzhou is a city full of surprises and delights, with a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring its famous temples, enjoying its delicious food, or experiencing its local customs, there’s something for everyone in Quanzhou. We hope this article has answered some of your questions about this fascinating city and has inspired you to visit it soon.

The Insider’s Guide to Quanzhou, China

Quanzhou is a vibrant city in southeast China, located in the province of Fujian. Known as the “Maritime Silk Road” in ancient times, this historical city is famous for its rich cultural heritage, bustling port, and delicious seafood. If you’re planning a trip to Quanzhou and have some questions, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions and some insider tips to help you get the most out of your visit.

Attractions

There are plenty of things to see and do in Quanzhou. Here are some of the most popular attractions:

• Kaiyuan Temple: This ancient Buddhist temple was built in 686 AD and is considered one of the top three temple complexes in Fujian.
• Qingjing Mosque: This mosque is the oldest and one of the most important Islamic sites in China, with a history dating back over 1,000 years.
• Quanzhou Maritime Museum: Learn about the city’s rich maritime history and see a huge collection of artifacts, ships, and ancient navigation equipment.
• Zhongshan Park: This beautiful park has numerous walking trails, gardens, and lakes, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
• Turtle Garden: This small park is home to hundreds of turtles of all shapes and sizes, and it’s a popular spot for families and tourists to take photos.

Dining

Quanzhou is famous for its seafood and snacks, so be sure to try as many local dishes as possible during your trip. Here are a few must-try dining spots:

• Taiwanese Night Market: This colorful night market has a wide variety of street foods and snacks, including fried squid, fruit smoothies, and stinky tofu.
• Xiaoyang Fried Rice: This humble eatery is famous for its fried rice, which is cooked in front of you on a large wok and topped with fresh ingredients like shrimp, pork, and egg.
• Caijiawan Seafood Restaurant: This popular seafood restaurant is known for its fresh catch and offers excellent views of the harbor.
• Kaishen Ramen: This ramen restaurant is a favorite among locals and is known for its hearty bowls of noodles in rich broth.

Cultural Experiences

Quanzhou has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many historical buildings and traditional arts. Here are some cultural experiences you won’t want to miss:

• Folk Customs Museum: This museum showcases the city’s folk traditions and culture, including traditional dress, festivals, and crafts.
• Zuita Shrine: This small shrine is dedicated to the patron goddess of Quanzhou, Mazu, and is a popular spot for locals to pray and make offerings.
• Puppet show: Watch an entertaining and colorful puppet show at the Quanzhou Puppet Theatre, where skilled artists perform traditional stories using puppets made of wood and linen.
• Pingtan Opera: This traditional opera is unique to Fujian and is known for its distinctive dialect, musical style, and storytelling.

Local History

Quanzhou has a long and fascinating history that is worth exploring. Here are some historical sites and landmarks to visit:

• Guandi Temple: This temple was built in the 11th century and is dedicated to the god of war and literature. It’s one of the most popular temples in Quanzhou and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
• Stele Forest: This forest of stone tablets is one of the most important collections of ancient Chinese inscriptions in the world and also has a collection of Buddhist statues.
• Tomb of Chengji: Explore the tomb of the famous Chinese navigator, Cheng Ji, who lived during the Qing dynasty and who made several voyages to Southeast Asia, India, and the Middle East.

Off-the-beaten-path

If you’re looking for something a little different, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

• Baidi City Wall: This ancient city wall was built during the Song dynasty and offers great views of the city’s skyline and harbor.
• Zhongde Gong: This temple is hidden away in a quiet alley and is often missed by tourists. It’s a peaceful and tranquil place to explore.
• Xunpu oyster village: This small fishing village is known for its delicious oysters and offers a glimpse into the traditional life of the local fishermen.
• Mount Qingyuan: This mountain is located just outside the city and is a popular spot for hiking and enjoying the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

Quanzhou is a city with a rich cultural heritage, bustling markets, and delicious seafood. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to explore the local cuisine, Quanzhou has something for everyone. Use this insider’s guide to plan your trip and make the most of your visit.