"The Living Fossil of China's Urban Neighborhood System" and "Museum of Ming and Qing Architecture"

Sanfang Qixiang Scenic Area Travel Guide 1. Scenic Area Introduction Sanfang Qixiang is located in Gulou District, Fuzhou City, Fujian Province. It is a national 5A-level tourist attraction, known as "the living fossil of China's urban neighborhood system" and "the museum of Ming and Qing architecture." It preserves more than 200 ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties and was once home to many historical figures such as Lin Zexu, Yan Fu, and Bing Xin. Three Lanes: Yijin Lane, Wenru Lane, Guanglu Lane Seven Alleys: Yangqiao Alley, Langguan Alley, Ta Alley, Huang Alley, Anmin Alley, Gong Alley, Jibi Alley 2. Transportation Guide By Air: Fuzhou Changle International Airport, take the airport shuttle bus or Metro Line 6 transfer to Line 1 to "Dongjiekou" Station. By High-speed Rail/Bullet Train: Fuzhou Station/Fuzhou South Station, take Metro Line 1 to "Dongjiekou" Station, then a 5-minute walk. By Bus: Take routes 1, 8, 20, 101, etc., to "Sanfang Qixiang" Station. By Car: There are parking lots around the scenic area, but parking spaces are tight during holidays. Public transportation is recommended. 3. Recommended Tour Routes Half-day Tour (about 3-4 hours): 1. Nan Hou Street (main street, experience the blend of commerce and culture) 2. Lin Zexu Memorial Hall (free, learn about the life of the national hero) 3. Bing Xin Former Residence (feel the traces of the literary figure’s life) 4. Yan Fu Former Residence (understand the story of the modern enlightenment thinker) 5. Xiao Huang Lou (typical Fuzhou garden architecture) 6. Waterside Stage (private stage of ancient wealthy merchants) Full-day Tour (in-depth): Morning: Nan Hou Street + Lin Zexu Memorial Hall + Bing Xin Former Residence Noon: Taste Fuzhou specialty snacks (such as fish balls, meat swallow, guobianhu) Afternoon: Yan Fu Former Residence + Xiao Huang Lou + Waterside Stage + Wenru Lane (rich in Confucian culture) Evening: Visit cultural and creative shops, check in at popular cafes or tea houses 4. Must-visit Attractions 1. Nan Hou Street: Main commercial street with various Fuzhou specialties, cultural shops, and snack stalls. 2. Lin Zexu Memorial Hall: Free admission, showcasing the life of the anti-opium hero. 3. Bing Xin Former Residence: Childhood home of the famous writer Bing Xin, full of literary atmosphere. 4. Xiao Huang Lou: Representative private garden of Fuzhou, perfect for photos. 5. Waterside Stage: Stage of ancient wealthy merchants, exquisitely built. 6. Wenru Lane: Rich cultural atmosphere, once home to many scholars and literati. 5. Food Recommendations 1. Tongli Rouyan (Nan Hou Street branch): Fuzhou specialty snack with thin skin and fresh filling. 2. Yonghe Fish Balls (Nan Hou Street branch): Old Fuzhou brand, fish balls are springy and delicious. 3. Dingbianhu: Traditional Fuzhou breakfast made from rice slurry, served with dried shrimp, clams, etc. 4. Peanut Soup: Sweet but not greasy, one of Fuzhou people’s favorite desserts. 5. Jasmine Tea: Fuzhou specialty, can be purchased as a souvenir. 6. Accommodation Recommendations Luxury Hotels: Fuzhou Yuehua Hotel, Sanfang Qixiang Atour Hotel Specialty Inns: Fangxiang Academy, Wenru No.9 (antique style, great for photos) Budget: Chains like Home Inn, Hanting, etc. (near Dongjiekou) 7. Notes 1. Tickets: The street area is free to enter; some former residences require tickets (e.g., Xiao Huang Lou 20 RMB, Waterside Stage 15 RMB). 2. Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn (March-May, September-November), avoid the summer heat. 3. Dress: Comfortable shoes are recommended as the stone pavements can be slippery. 4. Cultural Protection: Do not touch ancient buildings casually; littering is prohibited. 5. Tips to Avoid Pitfalls: Bargaining is acceptable when shopping; compare prices for specialties. 8. Nearby Recommendations Wushan: Climb to overlook the panoramic view of Fuzhou, about 1 km from Sanfang Qixiang. West Lake Park: Classic Fuzhou garden, suitable for strolling. Shangxiahang: Another historical and cultural street area in Fuzhou with old commercial port charm. Summary: Sanfang Qixiang is a microcosm of Fuzhou culture, ideal for visitors who love history, architecture, and food. It is recommended to spend half a day to a full day to slowly savor the charm of this thousand-year-old ancient street! 📌 Tips: Volunteer guide services are available in the scenic area and can be booked in advance for a deeper understanding of cultural stories.