Lost in a Cloud-Hidden Paradise: Unlocking the Many Charms of Fuzhou's Guling

In Fuzhou, there exists a place that feels both close to civilization and far from the hustle and bustle—Guling. While the city swelters in summer heat, Guling hides the coolest retreat. Follow this guide to discover the unique romance and beauty of Guling!

🚗【Transportation Guide】
Self-drive: Depart from downtown Fuzhou and wind up the scenic mountain roads—a picturesque journey that feels like a date with nature. The drive takes about 30-40 minutes.
Public transport: Take Metro Line 2 to Gushan Station, then transfer to Guling Special Line 3 (fare: ¥15). In about 30 minutes, you'll arrive at Liushanwang Park Station. Nearby service centers offer free maps and travel guides.

🌳【Must-Visit Attractions】
Zhuli Scenic Area: The crown jewel of Guling, featuring vast lawns, dense forests, and uniquely shaped boulders. The Sunrise Viewing Platform offers panoramic mountain vistas, leaving urban noise far behind. At dawn, golden sunlight bathes the landscape; at dusk, the warm hues of sunset turn the area into a photographer's paradise.
Guling Old Street: Once a hub for expats, this nostalgic street is lined with Western-style buildings. Stroll the cobblestone paths to discover stories behind landmarks like the International Welfare Club, Guling Post Office, and Kodak Photo Studio. Pause at a café to soak in the tranquility.
Liushanwang Park: Home to a thousand-year-old Chinese fir so massive it takes multiple people to encircle its trunk. Walk the wooden trails through the fir forest, breathing in fresh, oxygen-rich air. Nearby streams and waterfalls offer refreshing summer retreats.
Changtianxi Trail (Terraced Flower Sea): From late May to June, this valley transforms into a hydrangea wonderland with 110,000 blooms. Varieties like 'Endless Summer' and 'Miss Saori' create a painter's palette of blues, pinks, and purples—a fairytale setting perfect for Instagram.

🍱【Local Delights】
Guling's food streets offer authentic snacks: slippery yet flavorful banmian noodles, crispy fried oil cakes, and guobian rice soup. At the farmers' market, find Guling's "Four Treasures"—specialty vegetables including unique Guling chives. Zhuli Campground serves signature dishes like pork trotters braised in red yeast wine and chicken/duck cooked with fermented rice.

🏡【Accommodation Recommendations】
Choose from charming lodgings:
- Modern: LUX* Guling Mountain Retreat near Liushanwang Park, featuring starlit bars and BBQ.
- Rustic: Lingli Muli Holiday Home with cozy rooms and garden courtyards.
- Budget-friendly: Youth Plus Nostalgia Inn, perfect for young travelers.

🎈【Itinerary Suggestions】
Day Trip: Morning at Zhuli Scenic Area → Lunch at campground → Afternoon exploring Old Street → Sunset at Jiahui Scenic Area.
Weekend Getaway:
Day 1: Yixia Villa & Gardner Museum → Lunch → Liushanwang Park → Evening at Old Street.
Day 2: Changtianxi Flower Trail → Lunch → Afternoon hike at Keping Reservoir.

Guling—Fuzhou's hidden gem—enchants visitors with its pristine nature, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Come start your own summer romance in this mountain paradise!