Haven't tasted the 'Sea Pasture' of Xiapu? You might be missing half of the East China Sea!

## Xiapu Travel Guide: China's Most Beautiful Tidal Flats, a Photographer's Paradise and Seafood Haven

**Xiapu**, located in northeastern Fujian Province under Ningde City, is the oldest county in eastern Fujian. Boasting China's most stunning tidal flats, it's hailed as a "photographer's paradise" and a pilgrimage site for seafood lovers. The ever-changing tides, interplay of light and clouds, and the daily lives of local fishermen create breathtaking scenery throughout the year.

**I. Best Time to Visit**

* **Year-round appeal**, with seasonal highlights:
* **April-June**: Seaweed harvest season, showcasing spectacular labor scenes ideal for cultural photography.
* **July-September**: Typhoon season, but offers brilliant blue waters on clear days perfect for landscape shots.
* **October-December**: Laver farming season transforms tidal flats with artistic bamboo pole patterns - the golden period for photography.
* **Avoid** July-August typhoons and public holidays due to crowds and inflated accommodation prices.

**II. Transportation**

* **By Air**: Fuzhou Changle International Airport is the nearest, with high-speed rail or buses connecting to Xiapu.
* **By High-Speed Rail**: Xiapu Station has direct routes from Shanghai, Hangzhou, Fuzhou, and Xiamen.
* **By Car**: Well-connected roads make self-driving rewarding, with scenic coastal views along the way.

**III. Must-Visit Attractions**

**1. Beqi Tidal Flats (Free)**

* **Highlights**: Xiapu's iconic tidal flats with magical light shows during sunrise/sunset.
* **Best Shot**: Hills behind Beqi Village overlooking the entire flats.
* **Tip**: Check tide tables - receding tides reveal more dramatic landscapes.

**2. Xiaohao Beach (Free)**

* **Highlights**: Famous for rainbow-colored tidal patterns left by retreating waves.
* **Best Shot**: Hillside behind Xiaohao Village capturing boats amid textured flats.
* **Tip**: Afternoon light accentuates the colors beautifully.

**3. Dongbi Village (Free)**

* **Highlights**: Cliffside fishing village turning into living oil paintings at sunset.
* **Best Shot**: Viewing platform showcasing fishing boats returning home.
* **Tip**: Stay overnight in village homestays for authentic experiences.

**4. Yangjiaxi (¥50 ticket)**

* **Highlights**: "Mini Wuyi of East Fujian" featuring ancient banyans and maple forests.
* **Best Shot**: Morning light through banyan leaves creating Tyndall effects.
* **Tip**: Autumn foliage peaks attract crowds - visit early.

**5. Shajiang S-Curve (Free)**

* **Highlights**: Signature bamboo pole formations creating elegant S-shapes on water.
* **Best Shot**: Rooftop of Shajiang Village school (¥5 cleaning fee required).
* **Tip**: Early morning avoids harsh shadows on the patterns.

**IV. Photography Tips**

* **Gear**: Wide-angle (landscapes), telephoto (details), tripod (long exposures).
* **Timing**: Golden hours around sunrise/sunset for soft, colorful light.
* **Tides**: Schedule shoots during low tide for maximum tidal flat exposure.
* **Techniques**: Use boats/nets as foregrounds; slow shutter for misty water effects.

**V. Food Recommendations**

* **Seafood**: Must-tries include yellow croaker, razor clams (try scallion oil style), salt-baked prawns, and seaweed soup.
* **Local Snacks**: Minnan paste, sweet potato cups, rice dumplings - unique flavors worth exploring.
* **Restaurants**: Tip of the Tongue Seafood, New Delicious Garden, Ah Zhong Seafood - affordable and authentic.

**VI. Accommodation**

* **Xiapu Town**: Budget-friendly options like Putian International Hotel or Chenxi Hotel with good transport links.
* **Photo Sites**: Homestays near Beqi, Xiaohao, or Dongbi (book ahead) offer sunrise convenience at premium prices.

**VII. Itinerary Suggestions**

* **2D1N**:
* **Day1**: Beqi sunrise → Xiaohao → Dongbi sunset (overnight).
* **Day2**: Shajiang S-Curve → Yangjiaxi → Depart.
* **3D2N**:
* **Day1**: As above.
* **Day2**: Shajiang → Yangjiaxi → Nanwan Oracle Bones (overnight in town).
* **Day3**: Huazhu Village sunrise → Depart.

**VIII. Important Notes**

* **Safety**: Slippery tidal flats require caution - avoid solo exploration.
* **Eco-Friendly**: Preserve marine environments - no littering.
* **Respect**: Observe local fishermen's work without disruption.
* **Weather**: Pack rain gear and sun protection for changeable conditions.

**IX. Final Thoughts**

Xiapu's magic captivates both photographers and casual travelers alike. May this guide help craft your perfect journey to this coastal wonderland!