Five-Day Scenic Tour of Xiamen and Fuzhou

• Xiamen Arrival
• 4+stars Hotel
• None

• Gulangyu Island--Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street--Baishi Seafood Market
• 4+stars Hotel
• Breakfast

After breakfast, we'll start our exploration with the famous Gulangyu Island. It is a small island located just off the coast of Xiamen and is renowned for its well-preserved colonial-era architecture, beautiful beaches, and charming alleys. There are no vehicles allowed on the island, creating a peaceful and idyllic environment. As you wander along the narrow streets, you'll be greeted by various Western-style buildings that date back to the early 20th century, which were once the residences of foreign consulates and wealthy merchants. The island is also dotted with numerous historical sites such as the Shuzhuang Garden, which combines natural landscapes with delicate garden designs, and the Piano Museum that houses a remarkable collection of pianos from different eras and countries. Spend a few hours here, soaking up the unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. 

Connected to the ferry terminal that takes you to and from Gulangyu Island, Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street is a bustling commercial area filled with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and local vendors. The street features a unique blend of traditional and modern architecture, with its  arcaded buildings providing shade and a distinctive look. Here, you can shop for souvenirs, try on local handicrafts, or sample some delicious street food. It's a great place to experience the vibrant local life and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Xiamen.

Known as the "Eight Markets" among the locals, Baishi Seafood Market is a must-visit for seafood lovers. This bustling market is filled with fresh catches of the day, from various kinds of fish, shrimp, crabs to shellfish. You can see the fishermen unloading their hauls and the vendors busy arranging their stalls. Besides just looking at the colorful array of seafood, you can also choose some ingredients and have them cooked on the spot at the small restaurants nearby. It's a truly authentic experience to enjoy the freshest seafood while mingling with the locals in this lively market.

• Huangcuo Beach--Zengcuo'an--Shapowei
• 4+stars Hotel
• Breakfast

In the morning, we'll head to Huangcuo Beach. With its soft golden sand and clear blue water, it is one of the most popular beaches in Xiamen. You can take a leisurely walk along the shore, feel the gentle sea breeze on your face, and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery. There are also various water sports activities available here if you're feeling adventurous, like jet skiing or beach volleyball. Spend some time relaxing and having fun under the warm sun.

Just a short distance from Huangcuo Beach, Zengcuo'an is a vibrant and trendy neighborhood. It has transformed from a traditional fishing village into a popular tourist destination filled with cafes, boutique shops, and street food stalls. The narrow alleys are lined with colorful houses, and there's always a lively atmosphere with people chatting, laughing, and enjoying the local treats. You can explore the unique local culture here, taste some special snacks like the famous Zengcuo'an oyster omelet, and buy some interesting handicrafts as souvenirs. 

Shapowei is another charming area in Xiamen that has a rich history and a unique artistic vibe. It used to be a fishing port and now has evolved into a creative hub with art galleries, trendy bars, and cafes. The old warehouses have been repurposed into modern spaces, hosting various art exhibitions and cultural events. Walk along the waterfront, admire the old boats docked by the shore, and soak up the artistic atmosphere. It's a place that combines the old and the new in a fascinating way.

• Three Lanes and Seven Alley--Fuzhou Urban Forest Trail--Zuohai Park--Shangxiahang
• 4+stars Hotel
• Breakfast

Our first stop in Fuzhou is the renowned Three Lanes and Seven Alleys. This historical and cultural district is a living museum of ancient architecture and local traditions. It consists of three lanes and seven alleys lined with numerous well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty-style houses. These houses were once the residences of many famous scholars, officials, and noble families in history. Inside, you can find ancient courtyards, elaborate wood carvings, and traditional furniture. There are also many museums, art galleries, and small shops selling local handicrafts and cultural products within this area. Spend a few hours exploring this place to deeply understand the profound historical and cultural heritage of Fuzhou.

Next, we'll come to the Fuzhou Urban Forest Trail, also known as Fudao. It is a remarkable urban greenway that winds through the mountains and forests in the city. The trail is built with unique design concepts, combining modern architecture with natural landscapes. As you walk along the trail, you can enjoy the fresh air, the beautiful views of the surrounding forests and the cityscape in the distance. There are also many rest areas and lookout points along the way, allowing you to take a break and take in the scenery. It's a great place for both exercise and relaxation. As we continue our exploration, our next stop is just around the corner.

Zuohai Park is a large urban park with a beautiful lake at its center. The park is surrounded by lush greenery and has many scenic spots, such as pavilions, bridges, and gardens. You can rent a small boat and row on the lake, enjoying the peaceful and serene environment. There are also some historical sites within the park, like ancient inscriptions and monuments, which add to its cultural charm. It's a wonderful place for people to take a walk, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the outdoors.

Shangxiahang is an old commercial district in Fuzhou that has a long history. It was once a prosperous trading area along the Min River. The streets here are lined with traditional arcade buildings that now house various shops, restaurants, and cafes. You can explore the old shops selling traditional Fuzhou handicrafts, taste local snacks, and experience the unique charm of the old commercial culture. It's a place where you can feel the historical changes and the vitality of the city.

• Yantai Mountain--Fuzhou Departure
• Breakfast

On our final day in Fuzhou, we'll visit Yantai Mountain. This area has a unique blend of Western and Chinese architectural styles due to its historical background as a foreign settlement in the past. There are many historical buildings here, including consulates, churches, and old mansions. The streets are paved with cobblestones, and the houses are painted in different colors, creating a charming and romantic atmosphere. You can wander around, take pictures of the beautiful architecture, and learn about the historical stories behind each building. It's a perfect place to end our trip in Fuzhou.

After enjoying the last day in Fuzhou, we'll arrange for you to be taken to the airport for your departure. We hope this trip has been filled with wonderful memories and that you'll come back to explore these beautiful cities again in the future.