First trip to Quanzhou

Took an early flight from Hangzhou ✈ Quanzhou, landed just after 8 am. With plenty of time as a retiree and advocating eco-friendly travel, I ended up stuck at the airport bus stop for a full hour [Facepalm][Cry] mainly because I missed the shuttle. Actually, the bus ride to the destination - Quanzhou Confucian Temple only took about 35 minutes. Though there were many stops, the driver sped through smoothly on clear roads [Yeah][Congratulate]. Stayed at Lisu Quanzhou (Kaiyuan Temple West Street Branch) with its main entrance on Zhongshan Middle Road and back gate right by the Confucian Temple. Just around the corner was Citong Bieyuan·Confucian Temple (Licheng Branch) for local delicacies, though a bit pricey!

Visited Quanzhou Kaiyuan Temple, Guan Yue Temple, Quanzhou Tianhou Palace, Qingjing Temple, and Chengtian Temple all in one day. Walking to so many places was exhausting, but thanks to Quanzhou's "Xiaobai" electric carts - absolutely must give them a thumbs up 👍 Hail-and-ride service within the old city at just 2 yuan per ride, super convenient!!

Next day took a taxi to Qingyuan Mountain Scenic Area (70 yuan ticket). The driver suggested entering before 8 am for free access to the summit, or before 7 am at the main gate. Took photos at Lao Jun Rock with the "Number One Under Heaven" statue [Yeah], paid respects at Master Hongyi's Stupa. Didn't climb to the summit, instead took the shuttle to Nan Shaolin Temple (entered through back gate) - quite different from Songshan Shaolin Temple. Walked to the Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum to learn about Quanzhou's world-class and national-level heritage - very worthwhile! Afternoon leisure time, evening puppet show performance on West Street (booked via Ctrip).

Third day joined a tour to Wulin Traditional Village in Jinjiang, Luojia Temple, Shishi Golden Coast, and Shishi "Little Weihai" - all great photo spots. Friendly reminder for Luojia Temple visitors: be extremely careful walking on the reef rocks below - I took a nasty fall and scraped myself painfully, even tore my clothes [Cry][Cry]

Fourth morning visited Luoyang Bridge. Arrived too early before the museum opened, so just walked around outside. Local elders said the long stone slabs on the bridge have been preserved since ancient times - impressive! Truly deserves its title as "First Bridge Under Heaven"! Had lunch before heading home!!

Post by GRANT KELLEY | May 22, 2025