MileHacker Logo
Longyan Travel Tips

Longyan Travel Tips

Longyan Fujian, China Travel Guide

Mobile & Internet Access

China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom are the major mobile carriers. Passport needed for purchasing and registering a local SIM card. Data plans are generally affordable.

Connectivity Tips

  • eSIMs from Airalo offer a digital plan before arrival.
  • Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, guesthouses, and major cafes.
  • A Portable Wi-Fi device is a solid option.

VPN & Postal Services

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is needed to access many international websites and apps (e.g., Google, Facebook, WhatsApp). Download and test your VPN before you arrive.

Essential Tools

  • China Post (中国邮政) offices are available for mailing services.
  • Download and test your VPN prior to your trip for internet access.
  • Free public Wi-Fi may require a local phone number for login.

Language Barriers

Official language is Mandarin Chinese. Hakka dialect is also spoken locally. English not widely spoken outside of major international hotels.

Translation Resources

  • Use apps like Google Translate (download the offline Chinese language pack).
  • Pleco is an excellent offline Chinese dictionary.
  • Consider Rosetta Stone for language learning.

Important Phrases

Learning basic Mandarin phrases is highly recommended for daily interactions and a richer cultural experience.

Expressions

  • 你好 (Nǐ hǎo) - Hello
  • 谢谢 (Xièxie) - Thank you
  • 多少钱? (Duōshǎo qián?) - How much?

More Important Phrases

Basic Needs

  • 我听不懂 (Wǒ tīng bù dǒng) - I don't understand
  • 你会说英语吗? (Nǐ huì shuō Yīngyǔ ma?) - Can you speak English?
  • 对不起 (Duìbuqǐ) - Excuse me / Sorry
  • 是 / 不是 (Shì / Bù shì) - Yes / No

Directions & Food

  • 请问 (Qǐng wèn) - Excuse me (to ask a question)
  • 水 (Shuǐ) - Water
  • 厕所 (Cèsuǒ) - Toilet
  • 米饭 (Mǐfàn) - Rice

VPN Advisory

Download a VPN before you arrive in China. Many common apps and websites are blocked, and a VPN is needed to access them. Test it thoroughly before your trip.

Business Hours & Schedules

Understand local operating times to plan your activities effectively.

Shops & Malls

Generally open from 9:00 AM/10:00 AM to 9:00 PM/10:00 PM. Shopping malls usually open later and close later.

Banks

Typically operate Monday-Friday, from 9:12:00 AM to 5:00 am:00 PM. Some branches may have shorter hours on weekends.

Restaurants & Attractions

Lunch 11:30 AM-2:00 PM. Dinner 5:30 PM-9:00 PM. Street food stalls vary. Most attractions 8:30 AM/9:00 AM to 5:00 PM/5:30 PM.

Banking & ATMs

ATMs are widely available 24/7 in Longyan city and major towns. Many accept international cards (Visa, MasterCard, Plus, Cirrus).

ATM Locations

  • Look for bank locations.
  • Inside large supermarkets.
  • Within shopping malls.

Public Holiday Impact

Major Chinese public holidays lead to increased congestion and inflated prices for journeys and accommodation.

Considerations

  • Some businesses may close or have reduced hours.
  • Flights, trains, and buses become heavily booked.
  • Plan holiday travel well in advance.

Holiday Periods

Major Holidays

  • Chinese New Year (dates vary).
  • Republic Day Golden Week (Oct 1-7).
  • May Day (May 1-3).

Other Holidays

  • Qingming Festival (early April).
  • Dragon Boat Festival (June).
  • Mid-Autumn Festival (Sept/Oct).

Seasonal Closures Reminder

Smaller attractions or rural guesthouses might have limited schedules or temporary closures during low season or Chinese New Year. Always confirm opening hours beforehand.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Observe local customs for respectful interactions.

Greeting & Attire

A simple nod or a "Nǐ hǎo" (hello) is appropriate. Handshakes are widespread in formal or business settings. Dress is generally casual to wear every day.

Cultural Sites

  • Modesty appreciated when visiting religious sites.
  • Cover your shoulders and knees.
  • Observe area customs in traditional villages.

Dining Practices

Use chopsticks. Slurping noodles or soup is acceptable and indicates enjoyment. Share dishes. Hosts often fill your bowl or glass.

Chopstick Customs

  • Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice.
  • Do not use chopsticks to point at people.
  • Tap the table lightly to say thank you when your drink is poured.

Photography & Privacy

Photography is generally allowed in public areas and at attractions. Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, children in particular, or the elderly.

Restrictions

  • Respect requests not to be photographed.
  • Look for "no photography" signs in museums or religious areas.
  • Be mindful of people's privacy.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Avoid discussing sensitive political topics (e.g., Taiwan, Tibet). Do not point with your index finger; use an open hand to gesture.

Hakka Customs

  • Be mindful of local customs when visiting traditional Hakka villages.
  • Observe and follow local practices.
  • Maintain a respectful demeanor.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Gender Norms

  • China is generally a conservative society.
  • Public displays of affection are rare.
  • Discretion is advised in public settings.

LGBTQ+ Considerations

  • LGBTQ+ rights are not recognized in mainland China.
  • Public displays of same-sex affection are uncommon.
  • Discretion is advised for personal safety and local norms.

Cultural Awareness

A smile and a few basic Mandarin phrases are appreciated. Engage with locals in a friendly manner to enrich your experience.

Accessibility Information

Accessibility accessibility for travelers with disabilities remains limited in Longyan.

Mobility Infrastructure

Accessibility is a factor limited, especially outside of major modern constructions. Older buildings, rural areas, and many Tulou are not wheelchair-accessible.

Challenges

  • Often involves stairs, uneven terrain, or narrow passages.
  • Full accessibility cannot be assumed at major tourist attractions.
  • Research specific sites meticulously before visiting.

Accessible Transport & Hotels

High-speed rail stations are typically accessible with ramps and elevators. Some newer hotels may offer accessible rooms.

Transport Limitations

  • Municipal buses and older taxis are generally not accessible.
  • Pre-arrange specialized transport if needed.
  • Check hotel accessibility when booking.

Visual & Hearing Impairments

Specific services for visually or hearing-impaired travelers are limited. Signage is mainly in Chinese.

Resources

  • Some major tourist attractions may offer audio guides.
  • Consider bringing personal assistive devices.
  • Planning with a local expert is advisable.

Accessibility Resources

Information for travel with accessibility needs in China is limited, especially when it comes to smaller cities like Longyan.

Support

  • Specialized travel agencies might assist.
  • Seek area experts for tailored advice and set upments.
  • Comprehensive pre-trip research is important.

Plan Thoroughly

Accessibility infrastructure is still developing. Contact specific venues or a specialized travel agent to confirm arrangements before your trip.

Longyan Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture - MileHacker