
Yijinfang, located in the "Three Lanes and Seven Alleys," was formerly known as Tongchao Lane because the area is a water network area, and the tides from West Lake and South Lake could flow into the ditches of this lane. Later, the name was changed because someone in the lane returned home with honors after serving as an official.
No. 16 in the alley was the residence of Zheng Pengcheng, a Jinshi (Jinshi) during the Jiaqing reign of the Qing Dynasty. Its most distinctive feature is its waterside stage. This single-story wooden platform, with four pillars and a single bay , features a clear water pond below, a central courtyard, and a mezzanine at the front. Watching performances here, one can experience the clear water, gentle breeze, and pure sound , reflecting both acoustic principles and aesthetic value.
Fuzhou's famous Three Lanes and Seven Alleys include the "Three Lanes " (Yijin Lane), "Wenru Lane," and "Guanglu Lane, " and the " Seven Alleys " (Yangqiao Lane), "Langguan Lane," "Anmin Lane," "Huang Lane," "Ta Lane," "Gong Lane," and "Jibi Lane." The Three Lanes and Seven Alleys largely retain the lane layout of the Tang and Song dynasties, with 159 well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings . The area is known as the " Museum of Ming and Qing Architecture " and a " living fossil of the city's lifang system . "
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
free
All day
Yijinfang is an ancient cultural and historical area in Fuzhou, famous for its well-preserved traditional architecture and deep cultural heritage. The area is known for its role in the development of Fuzhou’s craft and arts industries, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich past.
Yijinfang is located in the center of Fuzhou’s old town. It is easily accessible by taxi, bus, or walking from nearby central locations. The nearest metro station is Fuzhou’s Provincial Government Subway Station, which is about a 10-minute walk from the site.
Yijinfang is open every day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the morning, especially on weekdays, to avoid the crowds. Weekend afternoons tend to be busier with local visitors and tourists.
The entrance to Yijinfang is free; however, certain galleries or exhibitions within the area may charge an entrance fee. Tickets for specific events or exhibitions can be purchased at the venue or online through local tourism websites.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for general entry, but booking in advance is recommended if you wish to attend specific exhibitions or events, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Visitors typically spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring Yijinfang, depending on how much time they wish to spend in the galleries and shops. If you enjoy taking in the culture and history, consider allocating extra time to explore the area at a leisurely pace.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides are also available in both Mandarin and English. It’s advisable to book the audio guides in advance, especially if visiting during peak times.
Start by exploring the main street of Yijinfang, where you can admire the architecture. Then, visit the local art galleries and museums that showcase the cultural history of the area. Conclude your visit by shopping for unique souvenirs and local crafts.
Night visits are not available at Yijinfang, but the area is beautifully lit at night, and some galleries and cultural venues may host special evening events. It's worth checking in advance for any special tours or nighttime cultural shows.
Yijinfang can be quite crowded during weekends and holidays. The best times to visit are on weekdays, especially early in the morning when the area is quieter and less tourist-heavy.
The main walking paths are accessible to elderly visitors and children, though some of the older alleyways may have uneven surfaces. The area is not specifically designed for wheelchair accessibility, so it may be difficult for those with mobility impairments.
Cards and mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Cash is also accepted, but mobile payments are more commonly used in the area.
Vegetarian options are available in many local restaurants, especially in the larger ones. Vegan and halal food options may be more limited but are still available in certain eateries in the area.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops selling traditional Fuzhou crafts such as paper cuttings, wooden carvings, and local artwork. You can also find embroidered textiles and ceramics as popular keepsakes.