Daimei: A Floating Red Brick Dream on Water

Daimei Village is a well-preserved ancient water village in southern Fujian, known for its unique red brick architecture and its resemblance to "Zhouzhuang of Minnan." With a rich history and tranquil environment, it is an ideal destination for a half-day or one-day trip. This guide will help you plan your visit effectively. 🏞️ Suggested Itinerary Daimei Village is small, and a half-day to a full day is sufficient for an in-depth experience. Here’s a suggested itinerary: Morning: Arrive at Daimei Village in the early morning when the light is soft and there are fewer tourists. Start at the viewing platform at the village entrance to get a panoramic view of the ancient village. Then, stroll through the alleys of the ancient houses, admire the red brick architecture, and soak in the morning tranquility. Noon: Enjoy authentic local dishes at a riverside ancient house in the village. Recommended dishes include Guobianhu (a local rice soup) and handmade Mochi (glutinous rice cakes). Afternoon: After lunch, take a boat ride to experience the village from the water, offering a unique perspective. Visit Jiafeng Hall to learn about the local family culture and history. Alternatively, explore the village’s artistic streets or relax at a riverside teahouse, sipping tea and enjoying a leisurely afternoon. For those looking to combine Daimei Village with nearby attractions, consider pairing it with Yuegang Ancient Town for a "Journey of Ancient Charm." 🚗 Transportation Guide Driving: Navigate to "Daimei Ancient Village" or "Daiwei Village." It’s about a 40-minute drive from Zhangzhou city center and less than an hour from Xiamen city center. There is a free parking lot at the village entrance. Public Transport: High-speed Rail: Take a train to Zhangzhou Station, then a taxi to Daimei Village (about 20 minutes). Bus: Some tour itineraries mention taking Longhai Bus Route 26 and getting off at "Yuegang Road Intersection." 💰 Cost Reference Item Reference Price Notes Admission Free Free entry to the village Parking Free Free parking at the village entrance Boat Ride Around 30 RMB per person Dining 30-80 RMB per person Local dishes and snacks 🏡 Main Attractions and Experiences Viewing Platform: Located on a small hill outside the village, the platform offers a must-visit photo spot. It takes about 10 minutes to climb up, and the panoramic view of the village is especially stunning at sunset. Red Brick Ancient Houses: Daimei Village is a prime example of "Minnan Red Brick Architecture." The village boasts hundreds of red brick buildings, characterized by their "red brick tiles, gray-white walls, and swallowtail ridges," a hallmark of Minnan architecture. Water Village and Boat Rides: Surrounded by water, with an inner river encircling the village, a boat ride is a great way to experience the "Zhouzhuang of Minnan" vibe. Jiafeng Hall: Learn about the Chen family’s values of "Filial piety comes first, harmony brings prosperity" and the village’s governance wisdom of "a plan for five hundred years." Ancient Bridges and Alleys: The stone arch bridges (like Shuiwei Bridge) and cobblestone alleys in the village are charming spots for photography and leisurely walks. Accommodation Recommendation: Zhangzhou Yongle Smart Hotel 🍜 Food Recommendations Guobianhu: A Minnan specialty, this rice soup is soft, glutinous, and flavorful. Handmade Mochi: Soft and chewy with a sweet sesame and peanut filling, this is a local snack not to be missed. Other Delicacies: Try salty rice, oyster omelets, or refreshing okra tea. 💡 Practical Tips Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting and fewer crowds. What to Wear: The village is small and best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes. For photography enthusiasts, consider wearing Hanfu or modern Chinese-style clothing for stunning photos against the ancient village backdrop. Nearby Attractions: If you have more time, consider combining your visit to Daimei Village with other Zhangzhou attractions like Volcano Island, Zhangzhou Ancient City, or Yundong Rock. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Daimei Village. With minimal commercial development, the village retains its rustic charm, making it a perfect place to slow down and savor the traces of time. Have a wonderful journey!