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Day Trips from Putian

Day Trips from Putian

Putian Fujian, China Travel Guide

Planning Your Excursions

This section outlines excursions that complement your Putian itinerary, adding depth and variety to your trip.

From bustling cityscapes to serene national parks, the region surrounding Putian has compelling options. This information steers your choices about where to venture next, whether for a day or a multi-day extension.

Considerations

  • High-speed rail is the most efficient transport.
  • Allow a full day for each city; overnight for Xiamen/Fuzhou is ideal.
  • Jiulonggu National Wooded Park for hiking.
  • Meizhou Island for Mazu culture and beaches.

Nearby Destinations

Several accessible locations within day-trip distance from Putian present distinct experiences.

Xiamen 厦门

Easily accessible by high-speed rail, the journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

Highlights

  • Gulangyu Island.
  • Colonial architecture.
  • Beautiful gardens.

Fuzhou 福州

The provincial capital, about 30-45 minutes away from Putian by high-speed rail.

Highlights

  • Sanfang Qixiang (Three Lanes and Seven Alleys).
  • Drum Mountain.
  • Hot springs.

Quanzhou 泉州 - UNESCO World Heritage

Historic Port City

  • Rich maritime history.
  • Historic shrines and mosques.
  • Unique blend of cultures.
  • Closest city by high-speed rail, about 15-20 minutes.

Transport & Timing

  • High-speed rail (G-series or D-series trains).
  • Local buses or taxis from train stations.
  • Each city warrants a full day; Xiamen and Fuzhou ideally require an overnight stay.
  • Organized tours are less common for individual international tourists.

Natural Escapes Around Putian

  • Jiulonggu National Wooded ParkXianyou County
  • Features:Waterfalls, dense forests, clear streams
  • Activities:Hiking, nature enjoyment
  • Travel time:1-1.5 hour's drive from Putian
  • Meizhou IslandPutian Coastline
  • Features:Beaches, Mazu cultural sites
  • Seasonal Appeal:Lush greenery and active waterfalls in spring/summer for Jiulonggu.
  • Landscape:Diverse mountain landscapes; coastal environment on Meizhou Island.

Affiliate Link Opportunity

Consider scheduling day trips and local experiences through GetYourGuide for convenient planning.

Cultural Excursions

Expand your cultural exploration with excursions beyond Putian city.

Xianyou County

Known for its traditional wood carving crafts in hamlets like Xiantou. Combine a visit here with Jiulonggu National Forest Park.

Rural Villages

Explore smaller villages to witness classic Fujianese rural life and agricultural practices. An authentic cultural experience.

Pilgrimage Sites

Meizhou Island, with its Mazu Ancestral Temple, a major pilgrimage site demonstrating centuries of devotion and maritime heritage.

Multi-Day Extensions

Consider adding 1-3 days to your Putian itinerary to explore more of Fujian Province.

Extended Itinerary Examples

  • Combine Putian with a 2-3 day trip to Xiamen, including Gulangyu Island.
  • Add a 1-2 day trip to Quanzhou for its rich historical and seafaring history.
  • Explore Fuzhou for its urban culture and natural surroundings (1-2 days).

Seamless Regional Travel

High-speed rail connects all these locations efficiently, making multi-day extensions simple to organize.

Travel Tips

  • Book train tickets in advance, especially during peak travel.
  • A logical route for more travel time involves exploring coastal Fujian in sequence: Fuzhou -> Putian -> Quanzhou -> Xiamen (or vice versa).
  • This path minimizes travel time and provides a smooth progression through the region's diverse attractions.

Regional Travel Overview

Main Transport:High-speed rail
Recommended stay Xiamen:1-2 days
Recommended stay Fuzhou:1-2 days
Recommended stay Quanzhou:1 day
Cultural Focus:Maritime Silk Road heritage
Natural Focus:Jiulonggu, Meizhou Island

Additional Planning

  • Consider self-guided exploration for flexibility.
  • Local tour operators mainly cater to Chinese-speaking groups.
  • Peak season travel requires early bookings due to busier conditions and increased prices.
  • Enjoy the blend of urban and natural beauty around Putian.

Organized Tours & Experiences

Local Tour Operators

Local tour operators cater mainly to Chinese-speaking groups. Direct bookings often occur in person.

Considerations

  • Language barriers may occur for non-Mandarin speakers.
  • Booking in advance is always wise.
  • Group tours offer a social way to experience the region.

Tailored Experiences

For specific interests like local crafts or culinary journeys, bespoke tours can be arranged.

Options

  • Gastronomic tours focusing on Putian specialties.
  • Workshops for Xiantou wood carving.
  • Guided hikes in Jiulonggu National Forest Park.

Online Booking Platforms

International platforms offer a range of experiences and day trips with English support.

Advantages

  • Easy comparison of prices and reviews.
  • Customer support often available in multiple languages.
  • Mobile booking and e-tickets.

GetYourGuide

A popular platform for booking tours, activities, plus outings worldwide, including China.

Explore Options

  • Find tours and activities for Putian and Fujian Province on GetYourGuide.
  • Read reviews from other travelers.
  • Secure booking and cancellation policies.

Custom Travel Planning

For a highly personalized itinerary, consider engaging a travel agent specializing in China travel.

Expert Knowledge

Access to in-depth local knowledge and special encounters.

Time Savings

Let professionals handle logistics, bookings, and local arrangements.

Peace of Mind

Enjoy a stress-free trip with tailored support.

Recommendation

Whether opting for structured tours or independent exploration, Putian and its surroundings offer a rich array of experiences waiting to be discovered.

Thematic Excursions

Beyond general sightseeing, specific interests can guide your day trips from Putian.

Historical & Spiritual Journeys

1

Mazu Culture

A day on Meizhou Island dedicated to the Mazu Ancestral Temple.

2

Buddhist Heritage

Visit Guanghua Temple and South Shaolin Temple for old Buddhist practices.

3

Maritime History

Explore Quanzhou's UNESCO sites and naval museums.

Nature & Adventure

  • Jiulonggu National Forest Park for hiking and waterfalls.
  • Coastal exploration and beaches on Meizhou Island.
  • Opportunities for cycling and outdoor activities in rural areas.
  • Birdwatching and local flora discovery.
  • Photography excursions in beautiful viewpoints.
  • Escape urban areas for tranquility.

Local Crafts & Culture

  • Visit Xiantou Wood Carving Village in Xianyou County.
  • Explore local markets for artisanal products.
  • Discover traditional Fujianese folk arts.
  • Engage with local artisans and observe their craft.
  • Attend local cultural performances if available.
  • Learn about traditional customs and practices.

Culinary Explorations

Putian Specialties

Sample Putian Braised Loach noodles and Oyster Omelets.

Meizhou Island Seafood

Enjoy fresh seafood directly from the coast.

Tea Culture

Visit traditional tea houses for Fujianese tea ceremonies.