Quanzhou – Most Underrated City

Once the busiest port in the world during the Song and Yuan dynasties, Quanzhou was where East met West in a bustling exchange of goods, ideas, and beliefs. Today, it remains a living museum of that golden age, with ancient mosques, Buddhist temples, Christian churches, and traditional Chinese pagodas standing side by side. Walking its streets is like flipping through the pages of a well-worn travel diary, filled with stories of traders, explorers, and monks who once called it home. Yet despite its incredible history, Quanzhou remains off the beaten path for most travelers, quietly preserving its treasures for those curious enough to seek them out.

The people of Quanzhou are as proud of their heritage as they are welcoming to newcomers. Families have lived here for generations, carrying forward traditions in craftsmanship, cuisine, and faith that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. Local dishes — rich in seafood, spices, and coastal flavors — tell their own stories of seafaring and trade. Community festivals bring the city’s colorful history to life with parades, temple fairs, and performances that celebrate both local legends and international influences. Quanzhou is a place where past and present blend seamlessly into a living, breathing culture.

Beyond its historical allure, Quanzhou’s coastal beauty is another quiet marvel. Sandy beaches stretch along the warm South China Sea, and tranquil rivers weave through green hills. Old fishing villages and bustling harbors pulse with the rhythms of the tides and the lives of the people who depend on them. Whether you’re exploring an ancient temple, watching fishermen haul in the day’s catch, or simply sipping tea by the waterfront, Quanzhou offers an experience that is rich, layered, and profoundly human. It’s a hidden gem that rewards those who take the time to discover it.