Things To Do
in Longyan
Longyan is a prefecture-level city in western Fujian Province, China, surrounded by rolling hills and tea terraces. It is best known for the Fujian Tulou—mounded circular and rectangular fortified houses built by the Hakka communities around Yongding. The landscape blends traditional rural life with modern services, offering easy access to nature and historical sights.
Visitors come to explore tulou clusters, hike scenic countryside, and experience Fujian's distinctive Hakka culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Longyan Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and culture of the region. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the ancient streets, taking in the architecture that reflects the city's storied past. Don't forget to grab a local breakfast of rice noodles from a nearby street vendor.
After lunch, head to the picturesque Longyan Central Park, where you can relax among the lush greenery and enjoy a boat ride on the serene lake. Visit the fascinating Yongding Tulou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can learn about the unique earthen structures built by the Hakka people. Spend your late afternoon exploring the surrounding villages and interacting with the friendly locals.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant in the historic center that serves traditional Fujian cuisine. Savor dishes like braised pork and stuffed tofu while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. After dinner, take a leisurely walk to the city square, where you can often find locals dancing or practicing tai chi.
Begin your day early by driving to the stunning Wuyi Mountains, known for their breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. Upon arrival, take a guided hike through the scenic trails, where you’ll encounter towering peaks and lush valleys. Look out for unique flora and fauna as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
After a picnic lunch amidst the stunning mountain backdrop, embark on a thrilling bamboo raft ride along the Nine-Bend River. This leisurely float offers a different perspective of the rugged cliffs and lush greenery lining the water. Capture the moment with photos as you pass by ancient rock carvings and curious monkeys along the banks.
Wrap up your mountain adventure with a visit to a local tea house, where you can taste some of the finest Wuyi rock tea. Enjoy the tranquility of the mountains as the evening sky changes colors, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation. Head back to Longyan, where you can reflect on the day's experiences over a light dinner.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🛏️Hotel room per night | $30-80 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-10 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Hakka culture and architecture (Tulou)
- Stunning hillside scenery and rural life
- Relatively uncrowded tourist sites compared to coastal cities
- Good value for money and easy to combine city and countryside experiences
- Limited nightlife and international dining options
- Some rural areas have limited English service and accessibility
- Public transport to remote Tulou clusters can require multiple transfers
- Seasonal rain can affect outdoor activities
- "你好" - Hello
- "请" - Please
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "对不起" - Sorry
- "厕所在哪儿？" - Where is the restroom?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "你会说英语吗？" - Do you speak English?
- "我想要这个" - I would like this
Places to Visit in Longyan
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO-listed collection of circular and rectangular tulou buildings set in hillside farmland, ideal for exterior architecture and morning light.
Less-crowded tulou clusters with traditional houses perched on terraced hills and quiet rural lanes.
Narrow lanes and old wooden storefronts offering candid street photography opportunities.
Elevation-based tea terraces with mists in the morning and golden light at sunset.
Food in Longyan
Longyan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Braised pork with preserved mustard greens, a classic Hakka dish popular in Tulou country.
Must-Try!
Tofu stuffed with minced meat and mushrooms, often served in a light broth.
Rice noodles or wheat noodles served with a savory pork or mushroom topping, commonly found near Tulou sites.
Freshwater fish prepared in a light, fragrant soup common in Fujian kitchens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Market stalls selling local produce, snacks, and Hakka specialties in the shade of tulou courtyards.
Evening stalls offering fried snacks, dumplings, and sweet treats along central streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite 'Ni hao' (Hello) is standard; address people with appropriate titles or by surname.
Show deference to elders; avoid public confrontation and keep noise levels reasonable in neighborhoods.
Ask for permission before entering private courtyards or villages; photography in certain areas may require consent.
Safety
Tipping in Longyan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most everyday services; rounding up for good service is common in tourist spots, but not obligatory.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are ubiquitous; carry some cash for rural areas or markets where scans may be limited.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming tea fields; carry light layers and a light rain jacket.
Warm to hot and humid with frequent showers; stay hydrated and wear breathable clothing; expect rain at the Tulou sites.
Comfortable temperatures and clear skies; excellent for photography and outdoor walks.
Cool to cold, especially in the mornings; pack a warm jacket and layers; some facilities may operate on shorter winter hours.
Longyan at Night
Hiking in Longyan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ridgetop paths offering views of tulou clusters and terraced fields; moderate difficulty.
Shaded trails through tea estates and pine forests near Longyan; an easy to moderate hike.
Airports
How to reach Longyan by plane.
Major international hub serving Fujian; frequent connections to domestic and some international destinations.
Regional hub with domestic and limited international flights; convenient for southern Fujian travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longyan’s population is predominantly Han Chinese; there are also Hakka communities especially in Tulou regions.
A significant cultural group in the Tulou areas, with distinct dialects and traditional houses.
People who work in agriculture, tourism, and construction, often traveling between cities during holidays.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools, communities, and public courts.
A popular pastime in urban neighborhoods and clubs.
Common in parks and indoor gyms across the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Longyan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can opt for tofu, mushrooms, eggplants, and vegetable dishes; ask for bean-based broths and avoid meat-based stocks; many Tulou eateries offer vegetarian options.