Things To Do
in Longwan
Longwan is a coastal district of Wenzhou in Zhejiang province, known for its working ports, seafood culture, and a mix of industrial zones and seaside neighborhoods. The area combines modern development with traditional fishing villages and busy wet markets along the shoreline. Visitors will find a practical, entrepreneurial local character, plenty of fresh seafood, and convenient access to nearby scenic areas like Yandang Mountain.
Longwan is a good base for exploring Wenzhou’s coastline, sampling regional cuisine, and day trips into nearby natural attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in Longwan with a visit to the historic center, where you can admire the traditional architecture and vibrant local culture. Stroll through the ancient streets, taking in the sights of well-preserved buildings that tell the story of the region's rich past. Don't forget to stop by a local tea house to savor a cup of freshly brewed Chinese tea.
After lunch at a nearby dumpling restaurant, continue your exploration by visiting the Longwan Museum, which showcases the area's history and heritage. Engage with interactive displays and learn about the unique customs of the local people. As the afternoon sun sets, take time to wander through the local markets, where you can find handmade crafts and delicious snacks.
As evening approaches, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the bustling streets below. Sample regional specialties, perhaps a spicy fish dish or fragrant stir-fried vegetables, while enjoying the panoramic views of the city. Conclude your day with a serene walk along the riverbank, where you can appreciate the illuminated skyline.
Kick off your day with a visit to Longwan's beautiful coastline, where the golden sands invite you for a refreshing morning swim. Engage in some beach volleyball or simply relax by the shore soaking up the sun. As the morning progresses, consider renting a kayak to explore the nearby coves and hidden beaches.
After an active morning, indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at a beachside shack, enjoying the catch of the day. Spend the afternoon trying your hand at windsurfing, paddle boarding, or even jet skiing, with the help of local instructors. Take breaks between activities to relax on the beach and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean.
As the sun begins to set, gather around a beach bonfire with fellow travelers and locals, sharing stories and enjoying the warm ambiance. Treat yourself to a beach barbecue, where you can savor grilled seafood and local delicacies. End your evening with a stroll along the shore, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| ☕Coffee (cafe) | $2-4 |
| 🚌Local bus ride | $0.30-0.80 |
| 🚕Taxi (short ride) | $2-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (night) | $35-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fresh seafood and distinctive coastal cuisine
- Coastal scenery with access to notable nearby natural attractions like Yandang Mountain
- Authentic local life and markets
- Convenient transport links to Wenzhou and regional rail/air connections
- Hot, humid summers with typhoon risk
- Limited English signage and fewer tourist services than major cities
- Industrial areas mixed with scenic spots—some parts can feel utilitarian
- Seafood-heavy cuisine may be challenging for some dietary restrictions
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
- "请问...在哪里? (Qǐngwèn... zài nǎlǐ?)" - Excuse me, where is...?
- "多少钱? (Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much is this?
- "我对贝类过敏 (Wǒ duì bèilèi guòmǐn)" - I am allergic to shellfish
- "厕所在哪里? (Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Where is the restroom?
- "好吃 (Hǎochī)" - Delicious
Places to Visit in Longwan
Visit one of these nice places.
Early-morning and golden-hour scenes of fishing boats, cranes, nets and fishermen—great for candid waterfront photography and maritime details.
Seaside walks with views of bays, rocky outcrops and local life; good spots for sunset shots and long-exposure ocean photography.
Dramatic peaks, cliffs, waterfalls and carved paths—one of the most photogenic mountain areas in the region, especially in misty or autumn conditions.
Vibrant night scenes with colorful lights, busy vendors and steaming food—excellent for street and food photography.
Food in Longwan
Longwan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Springy fish balls made from minced local white fish, served in a clear broth or stir-fried; available at seafood stalls and small family restaurants.
Must-Try!
Freshly steamed clams, often with garlic and scallion, commonly found at coastal eateries and night markets.
Pan-fried rice cakes with vegetables, sometimes seafood or pork—comfort food found in casual local restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local wet market near the port where fish, shellfish and other seafood are sold live; a great place to buy fresh produce or have a market-cooked seafood meal.
Seasonal night stalls offering skewers, fried snacks, tofu dishes and regional desserts—try grilled squid and scallion pancakes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple 'ni hao' (你好) and a nod are fine for casual interactions. Business interactions may expect more formality; exchange business cards with both hands when appropriate.
Wait to be seated if a host is present; sharing dishes is common. It’s polite to try a little of each dish offered. Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as it resembles funeral rites.
Show deference to older people—offer seats and polite greetings. Many communities value family and seniority in social interactions.
Bargaining is normal in markets and small shops; be polite and smile when negotiating prices. Fixed-price stores and supermarkets do not haggle.
Safety
Tipping in Longwan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most local restaurants and shops in Longwan; service charges may appear in higher-end hotels. For exceptional service, a small tip or rounding up is appreciated but not expected. In tourist-oriented tours, a modest tip for guides or drivers is acceptable.
Mobile payments (Alipay and WeChat Pay) dominate everyday transactions; cash is still accepted at markets, but small vendors may prefer mobile pay. Major hotels and some restaurants accept international credit cards, but carry cash or set up a mobile payment option if possible.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming vegetation; occasional rain and humidity. Good for coastal walks and fewer crowds. Bring a light rain jacket.
Hot, humid, and rainy with July–September typhoon risk; beaches are busy and seafood is abundant. Expect high humidity and occasional storm disruptions—monitor weather alerts.
Clear, comfortable weather with lower humidity and pleasant temperatures—generally the best time to visit for outdoor activities and photography.
Mild to cool and damp rather than snowy; temperatures can be chilly with grey skies. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket; many indoor attractions remain open.
Longwan at Night
Hiking in Longwan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Famous scenic area with steep cliffs, peaks, caves and waterfalls; offers varied trails and dramatic vistas—best for day trips and photography (about an hour or more drive depending on your starting point).
River gorge scenery, ancient villages and riverside trails offering canoeing, rock formations and hiking in a more tranquil setting.
Local coastal trails and small islet walks around the Longwan shoreline—good for short hikes, birdwatching and coastal photography, though some sections are informal paths.
Airports
How to reach Longwan by plane.
The main airport serving Wenzhou and Longwan district, with domestic flights to major Chinese cities and some international routes. Located approximately 20–30 km from central Wenzhou; accessible by taxi, airport shuttle and private car.
Larger regional airport to the north (overland travel required or a domestic flight connection) that can be a backup option for international connections; reachable by train or bus plus transfers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority are Han Chinese, speaking Wenzhou dialect (a sub-branch of Wu or Min dialects depending on locality) and Mandarin; locals are known for entrepreneurship and trading.
Longwan’s industrial and manufacturing sectors attract workers from other parts of China, creating a dynamic demographic mix in neighborhoods.
Like many Chinese cities, there is a visible older generation who participate in daytime social life at parks, teahouses and community activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played recreationally and competitively in schools and community courts across the region.
A popular indoor sport common in community centers and parks.
Given the coastal setting, both commercial fishing and recreational angling are common pastimes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Longwan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but limited in seafood-focused towns. Order vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes, and egg dishes; specify 'bu chi rou' (不吃肉) to clarify you don't eat meat. Cross-contamination with seafood is common in small kitchens.
Halal-certified restaurants are uncommon in Longwan; seek Muslim-friendly restaurants in larger Wenzhou areas, or choose vegetarian dishes. Ask about ingredients and cooking methods.
Seafood is central to local cuisine—if you have shellfish or fish allergies, communicate clearly in Mandarin (e.g., '我对贝类过敏' — 'I am allergic to shellfish') and avoid market stalls that cook multiple items together.