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West Street is Quanzhou's earliest developed street and area. As early as the Song Dynasty, it symbolized Quanzhou's prosperity. It is also the most well-preserved ancient street in downtown Quanzhou, retaining a large number of historically original buildings. It stretches from Chengxi Road in the west to Zhongshan Road in the east.
Suitable for all seasons
1-2 hours
free
All day
West Street in Quanzhou is one of the city's most ancient streets, with a history dating back over 1,000 years. It was once a key part of the Maritime Silk Road, which connected China to the rest of the world. The street is a melting pot of different cultures and is home to numerous ancient temples, historic sites, and traditional shops.
West Street is located in the city center of Quanzhou, Fujian Province. It is easily accessible by taxi, bus, or on foot from the central area of the city. Public transport options such as buses are frequent, and it is a short walk from popular attractions like the Quanzhou Museum.
West Street is an open-air street and can be visited at any time of day. However, the best times to visit are in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler, and the street is less crowded. The area is especially vibrant in the evening when local vendors open their stalls.
There is no entrance fee to walk along West Street. However, some attractions or temples may charge an entry fee. Tickets for these attractions can be purchased on-site.
No booking is required for visiting West Street itself. However, if you plan to visit specific temples or attractions, it's a good idea to check ahead for any special events or tours that may require advance booking.
You can fully explore West Street in 1 to 2 hours. If you plan to visit nearby attractions or enjoy meals at local eateries, you might want to allocate a few more hours.
Guided tours are available and can be arranged at the local tourist information centers. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English and Chinese, are available for some of the historical sites along West Street.
The best photography spots are around the main square and the temples. The ancient architecture of the street combined with bustling local life provides great photo opportunities.
Start at the eastern entrance of West Street and stroll westward, stopping at the local shops and temples. Don’t miss the Kaiyuan Temple and the local food markets. Make sure to explore the side streets as well to get a feel for local life.
West Street comes alive at night with street vendors and local entertainment. While there are no specific light shows, the evening atmosphere makes for a great time to visit and experience the vibrant local culture.
West Street can get crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit in the early morning or on weekdays.
There are public restrooms along the street, and numerous food stalls and restaurants offering local snacks and meals. Several shops sell water and other necessities.
West Street is a pedestrian street, so it is generally accessible. However, the cobbled streets may be difficult for those with mobility issues. It is recommended to explore the street slowly if you are with children or elderly visitors.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely used in the area, making it convenient for most visitors.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially in the local vegetarian eateries along West Street. Halal food options may be limited, but there are a few halal restaurants in the city of Quanzhou.
Yes, there are plenty of souvenir shops along West Street, selling traditional Chinese handicrafts, pottery, silk, and local snacks. Popular souvenirs include locally-made ceramics and embroidered textiles.
