Quanzhou: Where Maritime Legend Meets Modern Grace. Once the eastern gateway of the Maritime Silk Road, Quanzhou is a coastal city where ancient temples, spice-scented alleys, and sleek design boutiques coexist in poetic harmony. From the haunting chants at Kaiyuan Temple to the avant-garde charm of KAIPUU · ON THE REEF, this Fujian gem seduces cultured travelers with a blend of heritage and haute sensibility. Whether you’re wandering through centuries-old streets or sipping artisan tea by the sea, Quanzhou offers a quietly confident kind of cool.
Day One: Temples, Traditions & The Clock Tower
Morning – Ancient Elegance
Start your day at Kaiyuan Temple, one of China’s largest and most venerable Buddhist complexes, dating back to the Tang dynasty. Marvel at its twin stone pagodas, intricate woodwork, and the echoes of chanting monks.
Stroll over to West Street, a winding alleyway of Ming and Qing-era architecture, boutique tea houses, and concept stores housed in traditional red-brick “minnan” buildings
Afternoon – The Quanzhou Clock Tower
Venture into the heart of the city to discover the Quanzhou Clock Tower, a stunning architectural fusion of Eastern tradition and minimalist futurism. This cultural hub often hosts rotating art installations and design pop-ups.
Nearby, you’ll find curated concept stores and artisan tea lounges-ideal for a stylish recharge.
Evening – Night Market Indulgence
No trip to Quanzhou is complete without tasting the city’s iconic street food. Head to Zhongshan Road Night Market, where you can graze through:
– Runbing (spring rolls)
– Wu Xiang (five-spice fritters)
– Sticky rice dumplings (Rou Zong)
– Peanut soup and sea worm jelly (Tusan Jelly)
Try A-Ming Tusan Jelly or Chen Sanwu Sticky Rice for the best bites.
Stay – Elegant Escapes
– Quanzhou C&D Hotel – A five-star retreat with serene Chinese gardens and attentive service in the city center.
– Quanzhou Marriott Hotel – A modern luxury choice with panoramic skyline views and sleek interiors.
– Pullman Quanzhou – A chic and airy hotel ideal for business-luxe travelers.
– KAIPUU · ON THE REEF – A poetic collision of sea, stone, and sculptural design.
Day Two: Coastlines, KAIPUU · ON THE REEF & Cultural Curiosities
Morning – KAIPUU · ON THE REEF（Hotel）
A coastal installation where natural stone formations meet avant-garde design. This emerging landmark is a favourite among local creatives and influencers, with ever-changing exhibitions and seafront tranquility perfect for photos and reflection.
Afternoon – Culture or Craft
Opt for an off-the-beaten-path visit to Cao’an Temple, the last surviving Manichaean temple in the world.
Alternatively, book a private Minnan lantern or porcelain workshop for a hands-on experience of the region’s artisanal legacy.
Evening – Coastal Romance or Opera Night
If time allows, explore the atmospheric Xunpu Fishing Village, famous for its floral headdress-wearing women and salt-scented alleys. For a cultural finale, attend a Nanyin music or marionette opera performance-ancient art forms that still captivate.
