A panoramic guide to Wenzhou tourism. After reading this, you will know how to spend your time in Wenzhou!
Preface
Wenzhou, a beautiful city on the south bank of the lower reaches of Oujiang River in the southeast of Zhejiang Province, was called Oudi, also known as Dongou in ancient times. It was called Wenzhou during the Tang Dynasty and has a history of more than 2,000 years.
The city has jurisdiction over four urban districts: Lucheng District, Longwan District, Ouhai District, and Dongtou District; five counties: Yongjia County, Wencheng County, Pingyang County, Taishun County, and Cangnan County; and two county-level cities: Yueqing City and Ruian City. These places are full of scenic spots.
Wenzhoucheck the details
Wenzhou, abbreviated as "Ou," is a prefecture-level city in Zhejiang Province and one of its regional centers. A National Historic and Cultural City, Wenzhou boasts a reputation as "the most beautiful mountains and waters in the southeast." It boasts a wealth of tourism resources, including Yandang Mountain, known as "a famous mountain on the sea and the most beautiful in the world," the Nanxi River, known as "the world's first river," the Nanjishan Islands, known as the "Hawaii of the East," and the breathtakingly beautiful Dongtou. Wenzhou is also known as the cradle of Chinese mathematicians, the birthplace of Chinese Nanxi opera, and the hometown of seafood and eggs. Wenzhou residents are often referred to as the Jews of the East.
Recommended month: All seasons
5353 recommendations, 5719 visits
Small places worth visiting in Wenzhou
Jiangxin Island
Jiangxin Island is a national AAAA-level tourist area, lying in the Oujiang River north of Lucheng District, Wenzhou City. It has a history of more than 1,570 years since the Southern and Northern Dynasties and is one of the four most famous isolated islands in China.
Jiangxin Island has beautiful natural scenery, with lush ancient trees and famous trees, pavilions and terraces dotted around, and bridges and terraces complementing each other. It has always been known as the "Penglai of Oujiang River".
The ten sceneries in the middle of the river that have been passed down for hundreds of years, such as the snow shadow of Luofu, the moonlight of Oujiang River, the misty rain of Spring City, the morning glow of Haidian, the tidal rhyme of Menglou, the setting sun of Cuiwei, the returning sails of distant harbor, the fishing lights of Sandbank, the fragrance of Haiyan Spring, and the bamboo breeze in Pagoda Courtyard, have attracted countless scholars and writers to come and write poems, leaving behind thousands of works of calligraphy, so it is also known as the "Island of Chinese Poetry" and the "Ancient Navigation Beacon of the World".
Jiangxin Islandcheck the details
Jiangxin Island, located in the middle reaches of the Oujiang River north of Wenzhou city, covers an area of approximately 70,000 square meters. Long from east to west and narrow from north to south, it is one of China's four famous islands. Rich in historical sites and cultural attractions, Jiangxin Island is a shining pearl on the Oujiang River, known as the "Penglai of the Oujiang River." Famous poets throughout history, including Li Bai, Du Fu, Meng Haoran, Han Yu, Xie Lingyun, Lu You, and Wen Tianxiang, have all left their mark on Jiangxin Island. The ten scenic spots of Jiangxin Island, preserved for centuries, such as the misty rain over the spring city, the moonlit Oujiang River, the rhythm of the tide at Menglou Tower, the returning sails from a distant harbor, the fishing lights on the sandbank, the bamboo breeze in the pagoda courtyard, the fragrance of the Haiyan Spring, the setting sun over Cuiwei, the morning glow over Haidian, and the snow-capped shadows of Luofu, linger in the captivating memories of visitors.
Recommended month: All seasons
4561 recommendations, 2653 visits
The main attractions include Jiangxin Temple, East and West Twin Pagodas, Song Wenxin Temple, Chengxian Pavilion, Haoran Tower, etc.
(Pictures from the Internet)
Jiangxin Temple
The existing Jiangxin Temple was rebuilt in the 54th year of Emperor Qianlong's reign in the Qing Dynasty. It covers an area of about 2,870 square meters and is divided into three halls: front, middle and back.
The front hall is the Heavenly King Hall, with long corridors in the east and west, and bell and drum towers at both ends. The ancient bells from the Song Dynasty still exist today.
The central hall is the Yuantong Hall, which is the most spectacular and is dedicated to Guanyin Bodhisattva. Jiangxin Temple is one of the 32 Guanyin temples in the country.
The couplet on the main pillar was written by Wang Anshi of the Song Dynasty. In the rear hall, the Three Saints Hall, both the plaque and the couplet were written by Master Hongyi. On either side of the temple's main gate are double-character couplets attributed to Wang Shipeng of the Song Dynasty: Yun Zhaochao, Zhao Zhaochao, Zhao Chaozhao, San; Chao Changzhang, Chang Changzhang, Chang Zhang Changxiao.
(Pictures from the Internet)
(Pictures from the Internet)
Former British Consulate
In 1876, the Sino-British Yantai Treaty added Wenzhou as a trading port. In April of the following year, the British consul entered Wenzhou. The first consul, Albast, came to Wenzhou to select a site and temporarily lived in the "Haoran Building" on Jiangxin Island, supervising the expatriates and trade affairs of Germany, Austro-Hungary, Sweden and other countries in Wenzhou.
In 1894, the consulate was built at the foot of the East Tower on Jiangxin Island and completed the following year. In 1896, the "Police Station" was built on the east side. In 1997, it was rated as a cultural relic protection unit in Zhejiang Province.
(Pictures from the Internet)
Wenzhou Revolutionary Martyrs Memorial Hall
The temple was originally Longxiang Temple, located at the foot of East Peak. It was built in the tenth year of Emperor Yizong's Xiantong reign in the Tang Dynasty and was named Puji Zen Temple. In the fourth year of Emperor Gaozong's Jianyan reign in the Song Dynasty, he stayed at the temple during his migration south and renamed it Longxiang. It was rebuilt by monk Tongzhen during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty.
(Pictures from the Internet)
Haoran Building
Located on the east side of the Wenxin Guogong Temple, the building is a three-bay wooden structure with a double-eaved hip roof. It has a unique shape and its name is inspired by the word "Haoran" in Wen Tianxiang's "Song of Righteousness".
Climbing up the tower and looking out into the distance, you can have a panoramic view of the large and small ships sailing on the Oujiang River, as well as the densely packed houses in the city and the Haitan and Cuiwei Mountains.
(Pictures from the Internet)
Song Wenxin Temple
Located east of Jiangxin Temple, this shrine was built to commemorate the national hero Wen Tianxiang. The shrine originally housed a stone statue of Wen Tianxiang and inscribed steles with poems by famous figures, but these were later destroyed, leaving only the stele "Inscription on the Statue of Duke Wenxin of Song" by Qin Ying of the Qing Dynasty. Renovated in 1981, the corridor is inlaid with the "Song of Righteousness" and 20 steles inscribed with poems and lyrics by later generations. The couplet reads: "A solitary island rises from the middle of a river; the passing waters cannot erase the hatred of a fallen nation; his verses are revered for eternity, his heroic spirit still roars with the raging waves."
(Pictures from the Internet)
The best time to view Jiangxin Islet is at night, when the dazzling "light show" and the thousand-year-old isolated islet complement each other.
(Pictures from the Internet)
Wuma Street
Wuma Street is the most famous commercial street in Wenzhou. It retains the original architectural style that combines Chinese and Western styles. It has a number of time-honored stores such as the First Department Store, Wuweihe Grocery Store, Jinsanyi Silk Shop, and Laoxiangshan Pharmacy. It is a comprehensive pedestrian street with a simple style that integrates accommodation and food.
(Pictures from the Internet)
Oujiang River
It is named after Wenzhou's ancient name Ou. It originates from Baishan Zuguomaojian at the junction of Qingyuan and Longquan counties in Zhejiang Province. It is known as the mother river of Wenzhou. It is 388 kilometers long, with a total drop of 1,080 meters and a basin area of 17,900 square kilometers.
The night cruise on the Oujiang River covers a distance of about 20 kilometers, and the light and shadow show lasts about 90 minutes. As you travel east along the Oujiang River, you can cross four rainbow bridges: Dongou Bridge, Oubei Bridge, Ouyue Bridge and Qidu Bridge.
(Pictures from the Internet)
(Pictures from the Internet)
Dongtou
Dongtoucheck the details
Dongtou District, under the jurisdiction of Wenzhou City, Zhejiang Province, is one of the city's four main urban districts. Anciently known as Zhongjie, it lies on the southern Zhejiang coast. Composed of 103 islands and 259 reefs, it is known as the "County of a Hundred Islands" and the "Pearl of the East China Sea." Dongtou boasts a rich and diverse landscape, characterized by its unique rock formations, stunning beaches, beautiful reefs, secluded caves, abundant fish, and abundant birdlife. Experience the ethereal aura of Wanghai Tower, the magical rocks of Xiandieyan, the coastal fishing village of Dongao, the windmills of Baidie Village, the ancient houses cascading through 72 stone steps, and the stone houses of mountaintop villages. Other scenic spots include Xiandieyan, Banping Mountain, Daqu Island, Niyu Island, and Damen Island, as well as breathtaking marine scenery of clouds, sea, seabirds, boats, and sunrises.
Recommended month: All seasons
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Dongtou is one of the 14 island regions in the country. It is located southeast of the mouth of the Oujiang River, 68 kilometers away from Wenzhou. The entire region consists of 168 islands and is known as the "County of a Hundred Islands" and the "Pearl of the East China Sea".
(Pictures from the Internet)
(Photo from China-TravelNote author @Shadowemerge)
Colorful Fishing Village
The Colorful Fish Village is like a fairy-tale town, with beautiful shops, kittens on stone walls, graffiti roadblocks, and surprises at every corner of the alley.
The small fishing village is located next to the International Release Platform. It is also very enjoyable to watch the sea at the release platform. There is a Banpingshan Bridge above it, and you can go up the bridge and overlook the entire coast.
In recent years, many families in the small fishing village have started to go out to sea fishing. If you want to experience going out to sea, it is easy to find a boatman. The price is usually around a few hundred yuan. After negotiation, you can follow the boatman to go out to sea to fish. Sometimes the boat will go to the open sea, and the water in the middle of the sea is really blue~
(Pictures from the Internet)
(Pictures from the Internet)
Tips:
Ticket information: Free (experience bungee jumping at the International Release Platform 150 yuan/person)
Scenic spot address: International Release Platform, Dongtou District, Wenzhou City
Recommendation index: ★★★
Huagang Fishing Village-Wenzhou Xiaoerhai Lake
Known as the Little Erhai Lake in Wenzhou, bloggers on Xiaohongshu believe that it is an island comparable to Greece and the Maldives. It is a must-visit photo-taking spot for internet celebrities when visiting Wenzhou. It is super suitable for posing for photos. When the weather is good, every photo is a big postcard.
(Photo from: China-TravelNote author @老朱)
(Photo from: China-TravelNote author @老朱)
(Photo from: China-TravelNote author @老朱)
Tips:
Ticket information: Free
Scenic spot address: Huagang Bridge, Dongtou District, Wenzhou City
Recommendation index: ★★★★★★
It is worth noting that this place is relatively hidden, so you need to be careful when looking for it. Locate and navigate to the Granite Bridge, and go down the path on one side of the bridge to reach the photo spot, as shown in the picture below!
(Pictures from the Internet)
(Pictures from the Internet)
Huagang Fishing Village
Coming out of Xiao'erhai Lake, drive across the Huagang Bridge and you will arrive at Huagang Fishing Village. There are marked parking lots on the roadside and many fishing boats. Follow the fishing boats and you will see a small hole with many red wishing boards hanging inside. This is where "love turns the corner"!
Keep walking forward and you will reach the village. There are many homestays there and the prices of meals are relatively reasonable. You can choose whatever you like.
(Photographer: Bao Bao)
(Photographer: Bao Bao)
Tips:
Ticket information: Free
Scenic spot address: Huagang Fishing Village, Dongtou District, Wenzhou City
Recommendation index: ★★★
Baidie Village
This is a small village hidden on Dongtou Island, surrounded by mountains on three sides. The mountains are full of windmill riders, turning slowly in the wind. At the foot of the mountain are fruit trees and stone houses. The small village is very quiet, suitable for bringing the whole family, looking for the grandpa’s homestay, and strolling on the ancient windmill trail!
(Pictures from the Internet)
(Pictures from the Internet)
(Photographer: The picture comes from the Internet)
Tips:
Ticket information: Free
Scenic spot address: Baidie Village, Dongtou District, Wenzhou City
Recommendation index: ★★★★★
Banping Mountain
Banping Mountain Scenic Area is located 3 kilometers south of Dongtou and 500 meters away from Dongtou Wharf. A folk song says: "Banping Mountain, Banping Mountain, half is in Taiwan and half is in the mainland." The mainland Banping refers to this mountain.
The steep cliffs along the eastern coast of the scenic area are as if they were cut by a knife or an axe, standing upright for thousands of feet. The natural rock sculpture corridor on the sea that stretches for thousands of meters is unique in the country and is known as "the first screen of the sea in China."
The Dashalong Beach in the west of the scenic area is long and wide with fine and pure sand, where you can pick snails and shellfish and catch seafood.
(Pictures from the Internet)
(Pictures from the Internet)
Tips:
Ticket information: 30 yuan/person (ticket), 50 yuan/person (boat ticket)
Scenic spot address: Songbaiyuan Village, Dongping, Dongtou District, Wenzhou City
Recommendation index: ★★★★
Wanghai Tower
Wanghai Tower is located on Yandun Mountain, 227 meters above sea level, on the main island of Dongtou. The main building is 35.4 meters high, making it the tallest building on the southeast coast. It is a landmark tourist building in Dongtou. It was built in 434 AD and has a history of more than 1,500 years.
There are many scenic spots including the Wanghai Tower, the Yan Yanzhi statue, the Poetry and Verse Gallery, the Tonghui Pavilion, the Hongcheng Pavilion, and the Xinshang Pavilion.
The main building houses a marine folk culture exhibition hall that recreates the customs of Dongtou's fishing village. The fifth floor has a viewing gallery that offers a panoramic view of Dongtou's islands.
(Pictures from the Internet)
Tips:
Ticket price: 30 yuan
Ticket information: Children under 120cm, seniors over 70 years old and active military personnel are free of charge; children under 150cm in height and seniors over 60 years old are half price.
Scenic spot address: Dongjiao Village, Beiao, Dongtou District, Wenzhou City
Recommendation index: ★★★★
Xiandieyan
Located 2.7 kilometers southeast of Dongtou District, the scenic area features towering boulders and a variety of steep and beautiful scenery, making it an ideal place to listen to the waves, watch the sea, and admire the rocks. Standing atop Xiandie Rock, you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of Banping Mountain across the way.
The scenes such as Guanyin training the lion, the unique path between sea and sky, the stone pig for sea sacrifice, the golden eagle welcoming guests, the toad wanting to become an immortal, the fairy boy wearing a hat, and the twelve zodiac animals are lifelike and varied.
The rocks of Pearl Reef are arranged in an orderly manner, and the Eighteen Fishing Terraces rise up with steps, where you can go fishing, sketching, and picking snails and shells.
Professor Hong Shiqing of the China Academy of Art, known as the "No. 1 rock sculptor in China", created more than 30 rock carvings here - the Sixteen Arhats, the Guanyin relief, the Heart Sutra, as well as the inscriptions and poems of Master Hongyi and Qian Junli, adding cultural taste.
(Pictures from the Internet)
(Photo from China-TravelNote author @Shadowemerge)
(Photo from China-TravelNote author @Shadowemerge)
Dashaao Bathing Beach
The entire bathing beach is semi-circular in shape, facing east and south, with an excellent direction. The total length of the bathing beach is 450 meters and the width is 400 meters at low tide, and it is flat and open.
The sand is iron plate sand, which is fine and soft but not loose, and it is comfortable and pleasant to walk on.
The bathing beach is also a great place for swimming and surfing, as well as for beach sports such as volleyball, football, and cycling races; bonfire parties can be held in the evening.
Note that if there are many people during the peak season, you can also choose to go to the beach near Baidie Village.
(Pictures from the Internet)
Tips:
Ticket price: 50 yuan
Ticket information: Children under 120cm, seniors over 70 years old and active military personnel are free of charge; children under 150cm in height and seniors over 60 years old are half price.
Scenic spot address: Dongpingdong Aoding Village, Dongtou District, Wenzhou City
Recommendation index: ★★
Dongtou cuisine
sashimi
When you come to Dongtou, you must try the seafood here. As the second largest fishing ground in Zhejiang, there are more than 300 kinds of fish, shrimp and seafood. The freshly killed sea bream sashimi is so delicious that it is beyond words.
(Photographer: Bao Bao)
Pressure Cooker Oysters
They are big and fresh, even better than French oysters!
(Photographer: Bao Bao)
(Photographer: Bao Bao)
Yellow Croaker Feast
Yellow croaker is delicious when it is fresh. Steam it in a pot for three to five minutes, pour seasoning sauce on it, sprinkle with green onions, and then pour some hot oil on it. It is a simple method, but it retains the most original taste.
(Photographer: Bao Bao)
Cat ears
This noodle dish gets its name from its resemblance to cat ears. It would be a shame to visit Dongtou and not try some of theirs. The reason it's a Dongtou specialty is precisely because of its earthy, earthy texture.
Sweet potato starch is used as the main ingredient for the "skin", peanuts, sesame seeds, sugar, etc. are used as the "filling", and shredded ginger and brown sugar are added for blending.
(Photographer: Bao Bao)
duck tongue
A traditional Wenzhou specialty, it can be enjoyed as a cold dish at banquets or as a snack. First braised and then steamed, it's a complex process. When you chew it, it's slightly chewy and leaves a lingering fragrance.
Because the word "tongue" in Wenzhou dialect sounds similar to "折" (fold) which means losing money in business, businessmen believe it is unlucky. Therefore, Wenzhou people generally call "duck tongue" "鸭赚" in their dialect to bring good luck.
(Photographer: The picture comes from the Internet)
In addition, there are special foods such as lantern cake, water chestnut cake, Wenzhou pot stickers, soy sauce meat, etc. Don’t forget to order them when you come to Wenzhou!
Conclusion
Wenzhou is a city of poetic and picturesque landscapes and a gentle environment. It has more than just the beautiful scenery mentioned above. There are also Yanshan and Nanshui, ecological Wencheng, ancient Taishun, Pingyang and Nancang... If you experience it yourself, just once, it will leave you with a permanent mark that can never be erased.
