Starting Point of the Maritime Silk Road
Starting from the southeast coast of China and ending in East Africa and Europe, the Maritime Silk Road was a sea route enabling economic and cultural exchange between medieval China and the rest of the world.
It took its initial shape in the Qin and Han dynasties (221 BC – 220 AD), flourished in the Tang and Song dynasties (618–1279), and reached its heyday in the Yuan Dynasty (1279–1368).
Quanzhou was designated as the starting point of the Maritime Silk Road by UNESCO in 1991. It was the largest oriental port in the middle ages. Marco Polo called Quanzhou's port "one of the two greatest havens in the world for commerce" and "the Alexandria of the East".
Our 3-day trip to Quanzhou and Anxi will enable you to learn about the splendid history of the Maritime Silk Road and the adventurous spirit of mankind in conquering the sea, experience traditional Minnan (southern Fujian) culture, and enjoy the special Fujian flavors, which include the original and best oolong tea.
Tour 'Wow' Points
Witness an oceangoing vessel of the Song Dynasty (960-1279) unearthed in Quanzhou
Visit Quanzhou Overseas Communication Museum to see the medieval ocean vessel and learn about its unique Chinese watertight compartment technology. Appreciate technologies of shipbuilding and navigation that reached the most advanced level in the world in China in the Middle Ages.
Listen to the Stories of the Ancient Maritime Silk Road
Explore Quanzhou's historical and cultural relics, many over a thousand years old, to learn about a splendid oceanside civilization that witnessed huge cultural exchanges between countries and continents.
Experience the Unique Minnan (Southern Fujian) Folk Culture
Visit two different local fishing villages to learn about the stories of Xunpu women, who have amazing "garden" hairdos, and the industrious Hui'an women, who have eye-catching clothes, as well as their unique traditions.
Explore an Exclusive Tea Farm and Taste the Best Oolong Tea
Visit the hometown of oolong tea — Anxi, which boasts the cultivation of more than 60 superior varieties of oolong tea, with Tieguanyin tea top among them. Spring and fall are the best seasons to take this experience.
Have a Bite of Quanzhou — a True Taste of Minnan
Quanzhou has been selected as a 'famous Chinese gourmet city'. With fresh materials, a delicious and light taste, and rich nutrition, Quanzhou food is rated as the real taste of China by the "A Bite of China" TV series.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
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A Truly Memorable Adventure
We are so grateful to China Highlights for the perfect planning of our trip to Beijing! Our guide, Olivia Tian had deep knowledge of Chinese history and culture, she was adaptable to clients' needs and we really benefitted from her recommendations for restaurants and other activities. With her warm personality she helped us create many happy memories from Beijing. We hope to come back some day and we shall certainly rely on the services of China Highlights again. more
Apr 2024, Rossitza
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The best of Beijing
The Great Wall views were amazing. Shopping in Hutong and Quianmen Street were fantastic and the traditional Chinese restaurants were also fabulous. Thanks to Mark our tour guide who took care of everything we needed!!! more
Apr 2024, Jodie W
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Excellent private tour in Beijing with Ethan as our super guide
Ethan our guide has been super helpful and very resourceful to adapt to new situation like on the day to go to the Great Wall our daughter got sick and he was able when I asked him in the morning to change it to the day after (not easy with all pre booked tickets). His level of English was good and he also good adapt his speeches to our daughter. We really appreciated him and would definitely recommend him as a guide. more
Apr 2024, Christophe
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Tour Map
Itinerary Quick Look
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests.
We'll pick you up in downtown Xiamen and travel to Anxi County — China's 'tea capital' in about 2 hours.
Visit an exclusive tea farm, learn about the process of making Tieguanyin tea — the best oolong tea,make real Tieguanyin tea with your own hands in a hundred-year-old house, talk with local tea farmers, and have lunch in their home.
Then we travel to Quanzhou City in about one and a half hours, where we'll hunt for delicious Quanzhou food in West Street in the late afternoon, and stay overnight in Quanzhou.
Visit Quanzhou Overseas Transportation History Museum to learn about the glorious ocean culture of the city.
At Kaiyuan Temple and Qingjing Mosque witness the cultural exchange between China and other Asian countries.
Appreciate the exquisite art of oyster shell houses and Xunpu women's elaborate hairdos in Xunpu Fishing Village. Xunpu was part of the Maritime Silk Road in ancient times.
Visit Luoyang Bridge — China's earliest stone bridge built in the seaport. It's construction stimulated the flourishing of Maritime Silk Road trade in Quanzhou. Stay overnight in Quanzhou.
In the morning, visit Chongwu Ancient Town, which is "the most intact" seaside granite town still preserved in China.
Then explore Hui'an Dazha Fishing Village, which is the birthplace and home to the famous Hui'an women. 'Covered head, exposed belly; thrifty shirt, wasteful trousers' — this pithy saying sums up the special dress of Hui'an women and their hard-working and virtuous morality. You will have a chance to wear their traditional clothes and take pictures.
We can transfer you to a Quanzhou Railway Station or Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport for your departure, or even back to downtown Xiamen. The choice is yours.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.
Price includes:
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- English speaking local guide
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- 24/7 helpline for while you are traveling
Tour code: qz-1