
Liuao Town is located on the Liuao Peninsula in southern Zhangpu County, west of Da'ao Bay and east of Jiuzhen Harbor. Surrounded by the sea on three sides and boasting a 38-kilometer coastline, Liuao Town is a major fishing base in Fujian Province, a crucial window for Zhangzhou's trade with Taiwan, and a key coastal town in Zhangqing.
The city was built around a hillside, with a green hill in the middle, covered in huge rocks. The hill abruptly rises from the beach, surrounded by vast expanses of open space. From a distance, the city, hence its name "Lu'ao City" (today called Liu'ao City), resembles a vast rock bonsai surrounded by green trees.
Liuao is rich in tourism resources. The ancient city of Liuao, a provincial cultural relic protection site, was built in 1388 AD. Together with Chongwu and Tongshan, it is a historical witness of the anti-Japanese resistance against Japanese invaders in the southeastern coast of Fujian during the Ming and Qing dynasties, and is of great value for investigation and sightseeing. The unique thousand-year-old sea erosion landscape, known as "a scene on the west coast of the Taiwan Strait", has attracted many tourists from home and abroad.
The best months for camping in Liuao are July and August, as it rarely rains during these months. More importantly, you're more likely to see the sunrise from the seashore. If you're visiting during other months, it's best to bring a jacket and sleeping bag to protect against strong winds at night.
Liuao Ancient City
A living history textbook, entering the ancient city is like stepping into the history of the Ming Dynasty, centuries ago. One can subjectively experience the heroic spirit of the soldiers stationed in the ancient city who bravely resisted the invaders; the battles led by the renowned anti-Japanese general Yu Dayou, who slew the invading enemy; and the numerous inspections made by Zhou Dexing, Marquis of Jiangxia, before and after the city's founding. To this day, in the ancient training grounds north of the city, a stele commemorating Yu Dayou's achievements in resisting the Japanese invaders during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty still remains.
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Liuao, a small town located in Fujian Province, is known for its tranquil landscapes and historical significance. It has a long-standing cultural heritage, with its temples and buildings showcasing traditional Fujianese architecture. The area also has historical connections to local maritime trade and fishing industries.
Liuao is situated in the Fujian Province of China. You can reach Liuao by taking a bus or taxi from the nearby city of Zhangzhou. Public transportation is the most common way to travel to this town, as there is no metro system in the area.
The best time to visit Liuao is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild. The main attractions such as temples and parks are generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It’s recommended to visit during weekdays to avoid crowds.
Entry fees to temples and parks in Liuao are generally low, around ¥10-20. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and some attractions may allow advance online booking through local tourism websites.
Booking in advance is not usually required, but for peak seasons or special events, it’s a good idea to book at least a few days ahead.
A full day is generally sufficient to explore Liuao’s main attractions, including the temples, parks, and a boat ride along the river. If you plan to visit surrounding areas, you may need an additional day.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some attractions might offer basic information in English. Audio guides are not commonly provided in Liuao.
Start by visiting the temples in the morning, followed by a boat tour along the river. After lunch, head to the beaches to relax and take photos. End your day with a stroll through the town to enjoy its traditional architecture.
Night visits are not common in Liuao, and there are no light shows available. However, you can enjoy a peaceful evening walk in the town or visit local cafes for a relaxing experience.
Liuao is not typically crowded, especially compared to major tourist destinations. Weekdays and off-peak seasons (spring and autumn) are the best times to visit when the town is quieter.
Liuao has basic facilities such as public toilets, food vendors, and small shops in tourist areas. Water and snacks are commonly available in these areas, and rest areas are found in parks and temples.
Liuao’s main attractions, such as the temples and parks, are generally accessible to elderly visitors and children, although some areas may have uneven paths or stairs. Disabled access may be limited in certain spots.
Cash is still accepted, but cards and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely used in the area, especially in tourist spots.
While local restaurants focus on seafood and meat dishes, vegetarian and vegan options are available. Halal food options may be more limited but can be found in larger cities nearby.
Souvenir shops in Liuao offer local handicrafts, seafood products, and traditional Chinese goods like tea and silk. Popular items include locally made pottery and textiles.