Sanming

What are the most recommended things to do in Sanming?

Visit the beautiful Wuyi Mountain, explore the ancient temples and historical sites, and take a scenic tour of the Nanping area. Don’t miss out on the local tea plantations where you can experience the tea culture, and try some of the region's famous Fujian tea.


Introducing Sanming

Sanming City is located in the north-central part of Fujian Province, bordering Fuzhou to the east and Quanzhou to the south. It belongs to the Hakka ethnic group and is an emerging industrial city. It is also a national health city, a garden city and an excellent tourist city in China.

Sanming has beautiful mountains and rivers and unique scenery. It is home to Taining Ancient City, the world's first reclining Buddha, Shaxian snacks, Ninghua Swan Cave, Youxi Jiufu Mountain, Jianning Jinluo Mountain, the source of the Minjiang River, etc. Walking along the local roads and eating local food, you will enjoy the delicious food after the tour, which will make you like this ecological city even more.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical maritime monsoon climate;

Best in Spring and Autumn

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended 2-day tour


Sanming Shangqingxi

Shangqing Creek, nestled deep within a secluded valley, is a deep, meandering canyon formed by 65 million years of geological activity. Its banks are domineering with grotesque rocks, and the stream winds its way through countless paths, creating a secluded paradise on earth. Ever since Mei Fu, the prefect of Nanchang, resigned from his official post in the late Western Han Dynasty and settled in seclusion at Qizhenyan on the banks of Shangqing Creek to cultivate elixirs, a constant stream of seekers has flocked to the mountains, making Shangqing Creek a Taoist destination renowned for its supernatural stories and legends of the gods. "Shangqing," one of the three realms of Taoism, means "immortal realm."


Zhaixia Grand Canyon

The Zhaixia Grand Canyon in Taining, Fujian, was discovered in June 2004. Located in Zhaixia Village, 15 kilometers northwest of Taining County, it is formed by three linked canyons, forming a circular triangle. Resembling a golden dragon crouching amidst the mountains, it is also known as the Golden Dragon Valley. It is also the first geological expedition route established in Taining and has been hailed by United Nations experts as a "model scenic area for World Geoparks."


Fujian Dajin Lake Danxia Landform National Geopark

The Dajin Lake Tourist Area, known as "the world's most spiritual lake and mountain," boasts five scenic areas: Jinhu, Shangqingxi, Zhuangyuan Rock, Luohan Mountain, and Shangshu Mountain. Covering a total area of ​​over 230 square kilometers, it concentrates the key geological landscapes of the Taining Global Geopark. The Dajin Lake Water Danxia landform is the world's most complete, diverse, and scenically diverse Danxia landform, covering the largest area and the highest altitude.  


Most Popular FAQs for Sanming

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Sanming is a historic city in Fujian province, known for its natural beauty, ancient culture, and tea production. The city has historical significance due to its location along key trade routes in ancient China and its importance in local agriculture and tea production.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Sanming is located in the northwestern part of Fujian province. It is accessible by train, bus, or taxi from nearby cities like Fuzhou and Xiamen. The best way to get around is by taxi or rental car, as the metro system is not available.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The best time to visit Sanming is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild. Most attractions are open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but it's advisable to check specific sites for exact hours.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees to attractions in Sanming vary but typically range from ¥30 to ¥100. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and some attractions may also offer online booking options through their official websites or third-party platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary unless visiting during peak seasons or special events. A few days before your visit should suffice for most attractions.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Sanming and its main attractions, a 2-3 day visit is recommended. This will allow you to experience the natural landscapes, visit historical sites, and explore local tea culture.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Wuyi Mountain is a must-visit for its stunning landscapes and ancient temples. The Nanping area, famous for its traditional architecture and tea plantations, is another highlight. The local historical sites, including ancient pagodas and cultural relics, are also worth visiting.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides may be offered at certain sites. It’s advisable to check availability in advance for English-speaking tours.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Wuyi Mountain offers the best viewpoints, particularly at the top of the mountain, where you can capture panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Other great photography spots include the ancient temples and tea plantations.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with Wuyi Mountain for hiking and exploration. Then visit local tea plantations to learn about the tea-making process. End your visit with a tour of the ancient temples and local markets in the Nanping area.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

While most attractions in Sanming are daytime activities, some cultural sites and temples may offer evening events or festivals, especially during Chinese holidays or special occasions.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Sanming is not typically crowded, except during Chinese New Year or other major public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays during the off-season, such as in the winter months.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Sanming has basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, rest areas, and shops at most tourist sites. Larger attractions like Wuyi Mountain have restaurants and souvenir shops for visitors.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Many of Sanming's attractions, especially Wuyi Mountain, may involve some challenging hikes. However, there are accessible paths and viewing areas. It’s advisable to check with individual sites for specific accessibility options for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted in Sanming, especially in tourist areas. Cash is also commonly used, but it's best to carry mobile payment options for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are local restaurants offering Fujian cuisine, including seafood and tea-based dishes. You can also find small cafes serving traditional Chinese tea and snacks near Wuyi Mountain and other tourist areas.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Fujian cuisine offers vegetarian and vegan options, especially in larger cities. While halal food options are not widespread, you can find them in some places with a Hui Muslim community.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are various hotels near Wuyi Mountain, ranging from budget to mid-range options. For more luxurious accommodations, you may need to stay in the nearby city of Sanming or in larger hotels in Fuzhou.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the city of Sanming itself, with its historical sites, as well as the Nanping tea plantations and the famous Yongtai Hot Springs.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Sanming sell traditional Fujian tea, tea-related products, local crafts, and ancient cultural items. Tea is the most popular souvenir from the region.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From Sanming, you can continue your trip to Fuzhou or Xiamen by bus or train. For more remote areas, hiring a car or taking a local taxi is a good option.