7 Days China Spring Festival Tour in Fujian - Authentic Chinese NEW YEAR

Nihao! Warm Welcome to Minnan New Year!

Welcome to Xiamen, the beautiful seaside city of Fujian Province. Upon your arrival at the airport/train station in Xiamen, AOT tour guide and driver will meet and greet you at the exit, and then escort you to the well-selected hotel in downtown Xiamen for check-in.

After a short rest, you can enjoy a Xiamen City Tour according to your interests (free time on your own). There are two routes for you to choose.

Xiamen City Tour (Route A): Xiamen City Walk

• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Feature: Savor the old Xiamen flavor
• Route details: Zhongshan Park – Baijia Village – Xi’an Road Flower and Bird Market – Huaxin Road

This immersive walking route begins at Zhongshan Park (中山公园), a century-old sanctuary featuring traditional Minnan landscaping and banyan-shaded paths that offer a tranquil escape from the urban hustle. Then venture into Baijia Village (百家村), a living time capsule of Xiamen’s past. Here, you’ll wander through vintage alleyways decorated with creative murals and discover hidden gem dessert shops serving authentic local treats like peanut soup and grass jelly.

The sensory journey continues at the Xi’an Road Flower and Bird Market (溪岸路花鸟市场), the city’s largest and most vibrant wet market for flora, where the air is filled with the scent of fresh blooms and the lively chatter of local life—a perfect spot for candid photography. Finally, reach Huaxin Road (华新路), an elegant cluster of red-brick heritage villas and boutique coffee houses.

Xiamen City Tour (Route B): Xiamen Costal Walk

• Duration: 3 hours around
• Feature: Costal beauty and seafood market adventure
• Route details: Zhongshan Road – Eighth Seafood Market – Huandao Road

Zhongshan Pedestrian Street is the only walking street in China that leads directly to the sea and is also one of the earliest developed commercial areas in Xiamen. A major highlight of Zhongshan Road is the array of historic Qilou buildings (or arcade-houses) lining the street, constructed by returning overseas Chinese in the 1920s. These Qilou buildings featuring a South-East Asian style, are adorned with delicate Western-style carvings, Chinese engravings are seamlessly integrated with Greek column heads, showcasing a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western architectural elements.

Alternatively, you can turn into the small alleys near Zhongshan Road to explore the local life of Xiamen. These alleyways are filled with the ancient charm of the Southern Fujian, offering a plethora of colorful Minnan snacks and authentic old-brand restaurants. We recommend trying the Shacha Noodles (沙茶面) and Oyster Omelette (蚵仔煎).

Seafood is also a major highlight of Xiamen’s cuisine. You can visit the nearby Eighth Market. There, you can explore a wide variety of fresh seafood and perhaps even try some local seafood dishes.

Tips: If you decide to dine at the Eighth Seafood Market, be sure to negotiate the price before you purchase any seafood to avoid any misunderstandings.

Lastly, indulge in a tranquil drive along Huandao Road (Islet-Ring Road). Along this road, you can enjoy unparalleled glimpses of the stunning coastline and expansive sea. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, allowing the soft grains of sand to caress your feet. Immerse yourself in the soothing sea breeze and palm grove, and savor the pleasant seascape that surrounds you.

This morning, head to Nanjing Hakka Tulou (南靖土楼) from Xiamen City (150km, 2.5 hours drive).

You will embark on a full-day exploration of the Nanjing Tulou Cluster, a UNESCO World Heritage site so unique it was once mistaken for a missile base by satellite intelligence.

Your journey into Hakka culture begins at Tianluokeng, famous for the Four Dishes and One Soup (四菜一汤) layout. From the upper observation deck, you’ll see five iconic buildings—one square and four round—arranged according to the Five Elements (Feng Shui). This layout reflects the ancient Chinese philosophy of Heaven is Round, Earth is Square, symbolizing a harmonious balance between Yin and Yang. After descending to the lower deck, the cluster reveals a different face, resembling a Fujianese Potala Palace perched atop lush rice terraces.

Next, enter the Buyun Building to see the interior of a living Tulou. Each vertical section belongs to one family: the ground floor serves as the kitchen, the second as a granary, and the third as bedrooms. To truly connect with the "Heart of the Castle," you will enjoy a Hakka family visit, sipping local Oolong tea while hearing stories of communal life from the elders who still call these fortresses home.

After lunch, move to Xiaban Village to visit Yuchang Building (裕昌楼), the oldest existing Tulou (built in 1308). Known as the Leaning Tower of China, its second and third-floor pillars tilt at a staggering 15-degree angle. Despite its "East Leaning, West Tilted" appearance, it has withstood earthquakes and storms for over 700 years. This architectural marvel is also a "Well House," boasting a record 22 private wells—one in every kitchen—and a central courtyard paved with a Yin-Yang Bagua pattern.

Later, discover the Hometown of Disney Mulan at the Hekeng Tulou Cluster. This dense concentration of 14 massive buildings served as the visual inspiration for Disney’s Mulan. From the Lion Hill lookout, the cluster forms a spectacular Big Dipper constellation on the ground, showcasing the evolution of Tulou design across four centuries.

Finally, unwind at Taxia Village, the Water Town of Southern Fujian. Meandering along an S-shaped stream, this "Taiji Village" features 11 stone bridges and 42 earthen buildings tucked into a misty gorge. Don't miss the Deyuan Tang Ancestral Hall, where 24 stone dragon flagpoles stand tall—each a monument to the clan's scholars and centenarians. If visiting in autumn, the village air is perfumed with drying persimmons, offering a sweet conclusion to your day before the drive back to Xiamen.

Today after breakfast, head to Quanzhou from Xiamen City (91km, a 2-hour drive).

Quanzhou, China’s 56th UNESCO World Heritage site, was once the starting point of the Maritime Silk Road. Known as Zayton in ancient times, it was hailed by Marco Polo as the most prosperous city in the world. Today, it remains a Museum of World Religions, where diverse faiths and Hokkien (Minnan) traditions coexist peacefully.

Your Quanzhou exploration begins at the majestic Kaiyuan Temple, the largest Buddhist complex in Fujian. As you walk past 1,300-year-old banyan trees, you’ll encounter the iconic East and West Pagodas, China’s tallest ancient stone towers. Be sure to look for the Hindu carvings on the pillars of the Mahavira Hall, a rare architectural fingerprint left by medieval Indian traders that highlights Quanzhou’s inclusive Museum of World Religions status.

Don’t forget to visit the Quanzhou Bay Ancient Ship Museum (泉州湾古船陈列馆Closed on Mondays), which is a branch of Quanzhou Maritime Museum (泉州海外交通史博物馆) and houses a shipwreck from the Song Dynasty.

Next, a short walk leads you into the vibrant atmosphere of West Street. This is the heart of Quanzhou’s bustle and soul, where you can admire the red-brick Minnan architecture and the fiery Erythrina flowers that gave the city its nickname, Zayton. Take this opportunity to dive into the local food scene. The alleys here are hidden gems for authentic Hokkien cuisine, offering everything from savory Oyster Omelets to aromatic Ginger Duck. Before leaving the area, pause at the Clock Tower, a 1934 landmark that serves as a nostalgic bridge between the ancient dynasties and the Republican-era arcade streets.

After the visit, you will follow Zhongshan Road to reach the Quanzhou Confucian Temple, the highest seat of learning in the region for centuries. The temple is a masterpiece of Minnan craftsmanship, featuring the distinctive Swallowtail (Yanwei) ridges and yellow-glazed tiles usually reserved for imperial structures. Walking across the Panqiao bridge, paved with 72 stone slabs representing the 72 sages, you’ll feel the deep scholarly atmosphere that produced thousands of successful imperial candidates.

Later, a 400-meter stroll brings you to the Qingjing Mosque, China’s oldest Arabic-style mosque built in 1009. Its weathered granite walls stand as a testament to the Arab merchants who brought Islam to China via the sea. Remarkably, just 200 meters away stands the incense-filled Guandi Temple, where locals seek divination from Taoist deities. This close proximity of a Mosque, a Confucian Temple, and a Taoist shrine perfectly encapsulates the open-minded spirit of Quanzhou.

Then, be driven to Luoyang Bridge, the earliest surviving stone sea-crossing bridge in China and a masterpiece of Northern Song Dynasty engineering. Known as the First Bridge of the Sea, it remains famous for the ancient oyster-breeding method used to reinforce its foundations against the tides. It has remained sturdy and operational for over 900 years.

After a full day exploration, be escorted back to your hotel in Quanzhou downtown.

This morning after breakfast, be driven to Xunpu Village (half an hour or so).

Known as a living fossil of the Maritime Silk Road, Xunpu Village is famous for its Zan Hua flower crowns—an intangible cultural heritage featuring vibrant floral headwear worn by local women, believed to be descendants of ancient Arab traders. After wandering through the narrow alleys, you will discover the unique Oyster Shell Houses, constructed from shells once used as ballast on ancient merchant ships. These shimmering, textured walls offer a glimpse into the village’s enduring connection to the sea and provide a stunning backdrop for photography.

After lunch, be driven to Donghai Town in Putian (1-1.5 hours by car).

Your destination is Donghai Town, where you will witness one of the most spectacular Spring Festival celebrations in Fujian: the Wooden Bench Lantern Dragon Show. Starting around 4:00 PM, an ancient ritual unfolds as every household carries out their wooden benches—each adorned with 6 to 8 delicate lanterns—to connect them in front of local temples. This assembly process transforms individual benches into magnificent Lantern Dragons, symbolizing the unity and strength of the clans here.

As night falls, these glowing dragons embark on a spirited 5-kilometer parade through the region. Witnessing hundreds of villagers shoulder these heavy, illuminated benches as they wind through the landscape is a breathtaking sight, with the flickering candlelight creating a river of fire in the darkness. The synchronized movement of the dragon is a testament to the community's coordination and their shared prayer for a prosperous year ahead.

After the show, you will be transfered to your hotel for a restful night in Putian.

Today after breakfast, you will continue your cultural tour in Putian, which is anciently known as Xinghua.

First, head to the Xinhuafu Historical and Cultural District, a venerable area established in 983 AD during the Song Dynasty. This district is a living testament to Putian’s scholarly legacy, having produced over 260 successful imperial examination candidates. As you wander through the streets, you will find a rare architectural tapestry spanning the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Your guide will introduce their interesting stories to you.

Then, try an immersive oil-paper lantern making at a workshop there, where you will learn and experience the traditional craft of lantern making—a symbol of light and hope in Minnan culture.

After lunch, a 1.5-hour drive will take you north to Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian Province. Your Fuzhou City Tour today centers on the iconic Three Lanes and Seven Alleys (Sanfang Qixiang), which is composed of Three Lanes (Yijin, Wenru, and Guanglu) and Seven Alleys (Yangqiao, Langguan, Ta, Huang, Anmin, Gong, and Jibi), hence the name. In 2013, Three Lanes and Seven Alleys was placed on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.

Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by a massive, ancient banyan tree, which has grown into a perfect heart shape over the centuries. Capture a moment at this famous heart-shaped banyan tree. While strolling around the alleys, do not forget to look up to see the majestic, high-sweeping Saddle-shaped Walls that curve against the sky. These distinctive firewalls are the backbone of Min-style architecture—both a practical defense and a stunning visual statement of elegance and status.

Later, step into No. 17 Wenru Lane to visit the Fuzhou Maritime Silk Road Exhibition Hall. Inside this exquisite Ming-style courtyard, the highlight is a massive, meticulously crafted model of a Fuchuan (Fuzhou Junk), complete with the ancient watertight-bulkhead technology that once allowed Fuzhou’s fleet to dominate the waves. You will also see rare maritime artifacts, from weathered stone anchors to intricate trade ceramics, which illustrate Fuzhou’s pivotal role as a major hub where shipbuilders and merchants connected China to the world.

Your guide will lead you deep into the quiet enclaves of Gong Lane, Anmin Lane, and Wenru Lane, etc. These were the prestigious addresses of imperial China, once home to high-ranking officials and celebrated scholars. Explore the prestigious Gong Lane, often called the Avenue of Ministers. Here, you will find the Former Residence of Shen Baozhen (No. 26), the son-in-law of Lin Zexu and a pioneer of China’s modern navy. Just a few doors down at No. 24 is the Former Residence of Lin Congyi, the second son of Lin Zexu, showcasing the enduring influence of this powerful family tree.

After that, be driven to your hotel in Fuzhou to stay overnight. Your guide will explain the rituals and taboos for the next day's Youshen festival.

Today after breakfast, you will drive to Houfu Village in Tantou Town from Fuzhou downtown (1 hour driving). The most anticipated highlight of your journey comes. Each year on the 10th and 26th day of the Chinese lunar calendar, Houfu hosts the grandest and most authentic Youshen (Folk Deity Parades) in Fujian.

Upon arrival, you will witness the solemn Qi-jia Ceremony (starting ceremony) at the Yingwu Temple. This is a breathtaking spectacle where dozens of colossal Ta-gu (tower-like deity figures) are activated through sacred rituals. Watching these towering figures, some over three meters tall, come to life amidst the incense smoke and the rhythmic thunder of gongs is an unforgettable immersion into local spiritual life.

Next, you will join the spirited procession as it winds through the village. Unlike a mere spectator, you will walk alongside the deity team, experiencing the infectious energy of the crowd and the vibrant moving museum of traditional costumes.

During the breaks, your guide will lead you on a private home visit to local master artisans. Here, you will see firsthand how the exquisite deity heads are hand-carved from wood and how the ceremonial robes are meticulously embroidered with gold thread—crafts that have been passed down through generations.

As night falls, the atmosphere in Houfu reaches a fever pitch with the Night Parade. The deities continue their journey under the glow of lanterns, accompanied by a spectacular firework display that illuminates the ancient village skyline.

Later in the evening, after fully immersing yourself in this sea of fire and faith, you will be driven back to your hotel in Fuzhou downtown to rest after this high-energy cultural feast.

Your immersive China Spring Festival Tour in Fujian concludes today. You will have a few hours of leisure to enjoy the morning atmosphere of Fuzhou at your own pace. Later, your guide will escort you to the airport or train station for your onward journey, carrying with you the vibrant memories of Fujian’s ancient gods and living traditions.

If you wish to extend your stay to witness more peak of Fujian lunar celebrations, we highly recommend these two legendary events.

Optional Gutian Dragon Fire Dance (Held on the 15th Day of the First Lunar Month)

Held in Gutian, Liancheng, this event features the World’s Largest Dragon, a Guinness World Record holder that can extend over 700 meters in length. Constructed from hundreds of hand-painted paper segments, each lit from within by candles, this colossal glowing beast requires over 1,000 villagers to carry. As it winds through the ancient villages and riverside trails under the full moon, the Dragon of Fire creates a breathtaking, almost mythical scene that represents the pinnacle of Chinese dragon culture and communal strength.

Optional Putian Fire-Walking Ceremony (Held on the 16th Day of the First Lunar Month)

Known locally as Bai Zong Jiao, this is one of the most adrenaline-pumping folk rituals in China. Devout villagers carry ornate "Brown Palm Sedans" (Zong Jiao) on their shoulders, running at full speed and leaping barefoot across beds of glowing, red-hot charcoal. This spectacular display of courage and religious fervor is believed to purify the community and ward off evil for the coming year. The combination of flying sparks, the rhythmic chanting of the crowd, and the intense heat makes it an unparalleled spectacle of raw faith and cultural endurance.

If you would like to include either of these extraordinary events in your journey, please contact us to customize your travel plan. Since these festivals are held on specific lunar dates, we will adjust the itinerary and route according to the annual event schedule and your personal preferences to ensure you have a front-row seat to these rare cultural treasures.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) for your China Spring Festival Tour in Fujian. We are always dedicated to serving you and look forward to welcoming you again for your future trips to China/Asia.