Quanzhou West Street: A Perfect Blend of Ancient Charm and Modern Flair

When visiting Quanzhou, West Street is a must-see destination. Especially the pedestrian section from the Clock Tower to Kaiyuan Temple, which is bustling with activity. Tourists flock here to experience the allure of the ancient street and enjoy a panoramic view of the famous Kaiyuan Temple Twin Pagodas (East and West Pagodas), creating unforgettable memories.

✨ Photo Spots for the Twin Pagodas ✨

✅ Top Recommendation: 7FUN Rooftop Complex Space
- Paid Option: For just 9.9 yuan, you can take high-quality photos of the Twin Pagodas from a comfortable rooftop, offering great value for money.
- Hidden Gem: Located on the third floor of the old market on West Street (search "No. 373, Building 12, West Street, Licheng District"), you’ll pass through bustling fish and vegetable stalls before ascending to a tranquil artistic space.
- Exclusive Tip: Arrive right at opening time in the morning to enjoy over an hour of uninterrupted panoramic views of the Twin Pagodas! Capture the perfect frame of red-brick ancient rooftops alongside the pagodas, and use a wide-angle lens to include the skyline of the ancient city.

✅ Second Recommendation: West Street Tourist Center
- Free Spot: Head to the rooftop of the West Street Tourist Center at 10 AM for soft lighting and fewer crowds, making it easy to capture a full view of the Twin Pagodas.

✅ Limited View at Xiangfeng Alley:
This alley is often recommended online for its unique composition contrasting low houses with tall pagodas. However, due to its narrowness and surrounding buildings blocking the view, it’s not ideal for capturing a full view of the Twin Pagodas.

Instead, this spot offers a glimpse into local life with its Five Dynasties iron smelting site "Iron Furnace Temple" hidden within the alley. The entrance is lively with snack stalls, tea shops, and the chatter of residents, providing an authentic window into Quanzhou’s daily life. For those interested in deeper exploration, the alley features several hairpin studios (offering traditional hairstyles with silk flowers) and travel photography shops where you can rent costumes for Min Nan-style photo shoots, perfect for leisurely browsing.

✨ Food Experience: Average ✨

During this visit to West Street, I didn’t specifically seek out local delicacies. Restaurants near the hotel were more affordable and offered similar flavors. The hot weather also dampened my appetite, so I didn’t delve deeply into West Street’s culinary offerings.

The charm of Quanzhou West Street lies not only in its ancient architecture and rich cultural atmosphere but also in the hidden gems scattered throughout its alleys. Whether you opt for free or paid photo spots, you’ll feel the unique allure of this city. If you’re passionate about photography, West Street is undoubtedly a must-visit destination. However, the food experience might be somewhat average.