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Explore the traditional architecture of Shangxiahang, stroll through its charming streets lined with historical shops, and enjoy local snacks and crafts. It’s a great place for cultural immersion and photography.
Shanghang Road and Xiahang Road in Taijiang, along with the surrounding neighborhoods, are collectively known as "Shangxiahang," or "Double Hang." This refers to the two parallel streets running from Xiaoqiaotou to Damiao Road. This area was Fuzhou's early commercial center and shipping port. "Hang" is a phonetic derivative of "hang," meaning "hang," reflecting a historical shift in geography. In ancient times, the Minjiang River flowed around Damiao Mountain, and Shangxiahang served as the port for shipping. Once renowned for its bustling commercial life, this ancient neighborhood has long been a key location for folklore and history experts studying the development of Fuzhou's commerce. With its many historic buildings and renowned snacks, it's a popular tourist destination.
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Gutian Guild Hall
Built in 1915 by merchants from Gutian in Fuzhou, the Guild Hall served as a place for accommodation, storage, transportation, and socializing. The hall is divided into two wings, the east and west. The main wing houses a stage, a watchtower (including a bell and drum tower), a courtyard, a central hall, and a main hall. The hall is resplendent with 20 square and round stone pillars, and boasts soaring eaves, carved beams, and painted buildings. The wooden components, stone pillars, and stone railings are all well-preserved. The three caisson ceilings, in particular, are intricately carved and exquisitely crafted, a unique sight in Fuzhou.
Yongde Hall
Located diagonally across from the Zhang Zhenjun Ancestral Temple on Xiahang Road in Fuzhou, the Yongde Guild Hall boasts a long history, a fusion of Chinese and Western elements, and rich cultural heritage, making it a highly valuable building for preservation. It is an outstanding example of modern architecture, blending traditional Chinese and Western architectural styles. For a long time, the Yongde Guild Hall served as a venue for gatherings, chambers of commerce, and hometown associations of the Yongde business community in Fuzhou. After the liberation of Fuzhou, the Yongde Guild Hall became public property.
Jianning Guild Hall
Located at No. 63 Shanghang Road, it was built during the Jiaqing reign of the Qing Dynasty. Facing Shanghang Street in front and Caiqi Mountain in the back, it is built in accordance with the mountain's contours. The front features a red brick, plain gate wall. Entering the gate, one will find the stage, the courtyard (with restaurants flanking it), and the main hall. Behind the hall lies a garden with a fish pond, rockery, flower beds, and stone chairs and tables, creating a tranquil and elegant environment.
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Shangxiahang is a well-preserved ancient street in Fuzhou, offering a glimpse into traditional Fujianese commerce and culture. It was once a bustling market hub and is now an important cultural landmark, preserving the architecture and spirit of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Shangxiahang is located in the heart of Fuzhou's historic district. It can be easily accessed by metro, bus, or taxi. The nearest metro station is Fuzhou Metro Line 1, which stops near the area. It's also within walking distance from Wuyi Square.
Shangxiahang is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the morning for a quieter experience or in the evening when the street lights add to the historic ambiance.
There is no entrance fee to walk around Shangxiahang. However, individual shops or attractions may charge for their goods or services. It’s free to explore the area on your own.
No booking is required to visit Shangxiahang, as it is an open street. However, booking in advance might be necessary if you plan to join special tours or events held in the area.
To fully explore Shangxiahang, including shopping and eating, you will need about 1 to 2 hours. If you plan to take in all the sights and enjoy the atmosphere, it may take longer.
The must-see highlights include the traditional architecture of the street, the various historical shops, and local food vendors offering authentic Fujianese snacks. Don’t miss the handcrafted souvenirs available from local artisans.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in English may be available through local tourism apps or services upon request.
The best photography spots are along the narrow alleys and in front of the traditional wooden buildings. The street comes alive in the evening with lanterns and lights, creating excellent photo opportunities.
Start at the entrance of Shangxiahang and stroll down the street to experience the local shops. Stop for some traditional snacks, explore the side streets for hidden gems, and visit historical buildings along the way.
Shangxiahang is beautifully lit at night, and although there aren’t specific light shows, the street itself is illuminated, creating a pleasant atmosphere for evening walks. Special tours may be available during festivals or local events.
Shangxiahang can be crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, especially in the early morning or later in the evening when it is less busy.
There are public toilets available, and numerous food stalls offering local snacks. Rest areas are sparse, but there are many cafes and small shops where visitors can take a break. You will find many souvenir shops along the street.
Shangxiahang’s cobblestone streets may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors, though children and families can comfortably explore the area. There are a few steps and uneven surfaces in some parts of the street.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are the most commonly used payment methods in the area. Credit cards are not widely accepted.
There are many local restaurants and cafes in the area offering Fujianese cuisine, including traditional dishes like "Bian Rou" (noodle soup) and "Fuzhou fish balls." For a more western-style meal, several cafes and bakeries are nearby as well.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some local restaurants. Halal food is also available at select restaurants catering to Muslim tourists.
Several hotels are nearby, including budget and mid-range options like the Fuzhou Hotel or the InterContinental Fuzhou. For a more traditional experience, you can find guesthouses and boutique hotels in the historic district.
Nearby attractions include Wuyi Square, Fuzhou National Forest Park, and the Fuzhou Museum. These can be easily combined with your visit to Shangxiahang in a day trip.
Yes, there are plenty of souvenir shops selling traditional crafts, including ceramics, calligraphy, and handmade tea sets. Local snacks and Fujianese tea are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting Shangxiahang, you can easily continue your trip by taxi or public transport. The Fuzhou Metro is convenient for traveling to other areas, including Fuzhou’s parks and other historic sites.
