1. A Little Ming Miracle
The heart of old Fuzhou, Sānfāng Qīxian is relatively tiny, but of huge importance for the city. In its network of lanes, you'll find 200 beautifully preserved common houses which date back to the Ming Dynasty in many cases. Stores sell books and Chinese lanterns, and there are quirky attractions like the Fuzhou Ship Cultural Hall. Gardens on Guanglu Lane and the Shuangpao Bridge are other unforgettably picturesque sights.
2. There's No Buddha Way To Spend The Day
Fuzhou's most important Buddhist temple, Xichan is well over 1,000 years old and can be found at the foot of Mount Yi in the northwestern part of the city. Set in a gorgeous 7.7 hectare park, it has been churning out monks to spread the good word since the Tang Dynasty, and shows no signs of stopping. See the groves of Litchi trees, which inspired countless Buddhist poets to versify, spend some time on the "zig-zag" bridge, and see the 36 halls, with their artworks and ornate decorations. And don't miss the bronze thousand hand Bodhisattva as well.
3. China's Pioneering Port
One for naval buffs, Mawei was once the heart of Chinese naval power, sending ships all over the Pacific coast, and sometimes far beyond. You can visit the Foochow Arsenal, which was China's first modern shipyard, constructed as an effort to catch up with the Imperial powers. The site of the first yard is accessible, as is a memorial to the Battle of Fuzhou in 1884, when the whole place was razed by French invaders - and next door Mawei's current ship builders buzz on, creating craft to propel China's trade. Also, don't miss the Luoxing Pagoda, just south of the shipyards - and once a symbol of home for Chinese seafarers.
4. Pure Riverside Pleasure
Located on the south bank of the North Port river, Minjiang is a gorgeous little waterfront park. It stretches for almost eight miles along the river, and has been artfully landscaped to represent various aspects of Fujian's scenery. Along with the gardens, there's a 2,500 capacity auditorium, where music performances occur regularly during the summer. There's even a swimmable beach on lovely little Mingyue Island, and you'll encounter all sorts of sculptures as you explore the trails.
5. An Introduction To Fascinating Fujian
Situated in West Lake Park, the Fujian Museum offers a professional, absorbing tour through the province's past and present; a great way to get acquainted with Fuzhou itself. Covering 36,000 square meters, the museum includes plenty to see, including centuries-old costumes, models of medieval ships (which could have sailed to Africa), and there are some engaging exhibits about the province's fauna and flora. It's all housed in a formidable concrete hall, which is complemented by acre upon acre of parkland nearby. So it's ideal for an afternoon trip.
