
Youxi County is located in the eastern part of Sanming City, in central Fujian and north of the Daiyun Mountains. It is adjacent to Minqing, Yongtai, Shaxian, Datian, Nanping and Dehua. It is the largest and most populous county in Sanming City.
Youxi has long been known as the "Pearl of Central Fujian" and is also known as the "Hometown of Chinese Kumquats", "Hometown of Chinese Green Bamboos", "Hometown of Chinese Bamboos", "Hometown of Chinese Oil Tea", "Famous Leather Cloth City of China", and "Famous City of Zhu Xi's Neo-Confucianism Culture". In 2010, it was awarded the title of "Millennium Ancient County".
Youxi County has a mid-subtropical monsoon humid climate with warm summers, cool winters, and heavy rain in spring and summer.
Recommended play time: 1-2 days
Youxi is a historical county in Fujian Province, known for its ancient towns, tea culture, and scenic landscapes. It has deep roots in Chinese history, particularly as a center for tea production and trade. The region is also home to several ancient temples and cultural relics.
Youxi is located in Sanming, Fujian Province, about 250 kilometers from Fuzhou. You can get there by bus or taxi from Sanming city or use a car rental for a more flexible journey. Public transport options are available, but a taxi or private car is more convenient for tourists.
Youxi is an open destination throughout the year. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild. Attractions such as the Ancient Town and lakes are typically accessible from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Many attractions in Youxi, like the Ancient Town and lakes, are free to visit. However, certain scenic spots may charge a small entrance fee, typically between 20-50 RMB. Tickets can be bought at the entrance of these sites.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for most attractions. However, during peak seasons or festivals, it's recommended to book at least a few days in advance to avoid long waiting times.
A full day is typically enough to explore Youxi's major attractions, including the Ancient Town, tea plantations, and scenic spots. If you plan to hike or explore more remote areas, you may want to extend your visit to 2 days.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available at some attractions, but most are offered in Chinese. It's recommended to book a guide in advance if you require a tour in English.
Start your day with a visit to Youxi Ancient Town to explore its history. Then head to one of the local tea plantations for a tour. In the afternoon, take a hike in the nearby hills or enjoy a peaceful walk around one of Youxi's lakes. End your day with a visit to a local temple or cultural site.
There are no specific night tours or light shows in Youxi. However, the peaceful ambiance of the town and surrounding nature makes for a pleasant evening walk.
Youxi is generally not very crowded, except during public holidays or the Chinese New Year. The least crowded times are on weekdays outside of the peak tourist seasons like summer or holidays.
Youxi offers basic facilities such as public toilets, food stalls, and rest areas at popular attractions. There are local shops where you can buy snacks, water, and souvenirs. Larger shops are available in the town center.
Many of Youxi's attractions, like the Ancient Town and lakes, are accessible to elderly and children. However, some hiking trails and remote areas may have uneven paths, which could be challenging for disabled visitors.
Cash is still commonly used in Youxi, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in restaurants, shops, and most attractions.
Vegetarian options are available in most local restaurants, especially in vegetarian-friendly temples. Halal food options are limited but can be found in larger cities nearby.
Youxi has a variety of souvenir shops selling local tea, handmade crafts, and traditional Chinese goods. Popular souvenirs include tea, bamboo items, and pottery.