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Ouye Pond is located at the northern foot of Yeshan Mountain in Gulou District, Fuzhou City, east of the northern end of present-day Guping Road. Legend has it that this was the place where Ou Yezi forged and tempered his swords, with a history spanning over 2,000 years. During the Song Dynasty, Cheng Shimeng built the Ouye Pavilion here. Containing a pond, a pavilion, a corridor, and a stone structure, the courtyard is small, making it of limited interest. However, its main value lies in its cultural value.
In 1828, the pond was dredged again, expanding several times its surface area. In 1892, a monument commemorating the Ou Yezi sword-casting site was erected. In 1932, the Minhou County Scenic Spots and Historic Sites Preservation Association dredged the pond again, restoring the Ou Yezi Pavilion, Lingyun Terrace, Xiyu Hall, and Jianchi Courtyard. In 1982, the Fujian Provincial Department of Finance allocated funds for further dredging, paving the pond's banks with stone, and creating a gushing spring within. Furthermore, imitations of ancient structures such as the Jianguang Pavilion, Shifang, and Chixin Pavilion were constructed to the north of the pond.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for 20 minutes
free
All day
Ouyechi is a historic area in Fuzhou known for its traditional Fujian-style architecture and its role in ancient trade and culture. It reflects the area's rich history and heritage, serving as a cultural hub over centuries.
Ouyechi is located in Fuzhou, easily accessible by metro, bus, or taxi. The site is a short walk from public transportation stations, making it convenient to visit.
Ouyechi is open daily, with the best time to visit being early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Entry to Ouyechi is generally free, though some special exhibitions or areas may have a small fee. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online for special events or exhibitions.
Booking tickets in advance is usually not necessary, but it is recommended for special exhibitions or festivals. Tickets can be booked online a few days in advance.
It typically takes about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore Ouyechi, including walking around the historical sites and enjoying the local atmosphere.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with occasional tours in English during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages for self-guided exploration.
Best spots for photography include the traditional streets, gardens, and the surrounding landscape, which provides scenic views of the city and historical buildings.
Start by exploring the historical streets and landmarks, then walk through the scenic gardens, and finish with a visit to any ongoing exhibitions or local food markets.
Night visits are not typically available, but special cultural events or light shows may be hosted during festivals or holidays. Check local schedules for such events.
It can be crowded on weekends and during public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, especially early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Ouyechi has basic facilities, including public restrooms, small food vendors, and shops selling local goods and souvenirs. There are also rest areas to relax after exploring.
The area is relatively accessible, with some paved paths and rest areas. However, parts of the site may have uneven terrain, which might be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.
Cash is accepted, but cards and mobile payment methods such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used in the area.
There are several local restaurants and street food vendors near Ouyechi, offering traditional Fujian cuisine and snacks like dumplings, noodles, and seafood.
Some restaurants nearby offer vegetarian and vegan options, and halal food can be found in the surrounding area.
There are various hotels near Ouyechi, ranging from budget options to more luxurious accommodations such as the Fuzhou Shangri-La Hotel and nearby guesthouses.
Nearby attractions include the Fuzhou National Forest Park, West Lake Park, and the Three Lanes and Seven Alleys, which can all be visited in a day trip from Ouyechi.
Yes, there are souvenir shops offering local Fujian crafts, traditional ceramics, and snacks unique to the area, such as tea and dried fruits.
After visiting Ouyechi, you can take taxis, buses, or the metro to continue your journey to other attractions in Fuzhou.
