Things To Do
in Putian

Putian is a coastal city in Fujian Province, China, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is famous for its scenic landscapes, particularly the picturesque coastline and surrounding mountains. The city is also renowned for its delicious seafood and unique local cuisine.

Putian serves as a gateway to many traditional Chinese temples and historical sites.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Putian's Cultural Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Putian Guanyin Temple, an iconic Buddhist temple that showcases impressive architecture and serene surroundings.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Putian Museum to learn about the local history and culture through various exhibits.

evening
:

Conclude your day by strolling along the scenic coastline at Putian Beach, followed by dinner at a seaside restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at the nearby Nanri Island, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and a variety of flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

After hiking, visit the picturesque Dongzhen Village to experience local life and taste traditional snacks.

evening
:

End your trip with a visit to a local night market for shopping and sampling street food.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$3-$10
🚌Local bus fare$0.30
🏨Budget hotel per night$20-$40
Coffee at a café$2-$5
🚕Taxi ride within the city$2-$6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Delicious local cuisine and seafood.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Mandarin speakers.
  • Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
  • Summer heat and humidity can be uncomfortable for some visitors.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?
  • "我不懂" - I don't understand
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Excuse me, where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Putian

Visit one of these nice places.

Putian Guanyin Temple

A stunning temple complex with intricate architecture and beautiful gardens, perfect for capturing serene moments.

Putian Beach

A picturesque coastline offering beautiful sunsets and vibrant beach life, ideal for landscape photography.

Nanri Island

Known for its natural beauty and scenic vistas, this island offers numerous opportunities for breathtaking shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Putian

Putian is a food lover's paradise, offering a variety of delectable dishes that reflect the region's rich culinary traditions. Must-try local dishes include seafood delicacies, rice noodles, and various snacks.

Putian Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Putian Rice Noodles

Thin rice noodles served in a savory broth, often topped with seafood and green onions.

Must-Try!

Shacha Noodles

Noodles served with a unique sauce made from peanuts and spices, often accompanied by fresh vegetables.

Seafood Hot Pot

A communal dish where diners cook fresh seafood and vegetables in a simmering broth.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Putian Night Market

A bustling market featuring an array of street food stalls offering local specialties and snacks.

Fuzhou Street Food Market

Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this market offers various authentic Fujian street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Putian experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). Rainfall is abundant during the summer months, while autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) offer pleasant weather with moderate temperatures and lower humidity.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals; it's customary to greet them first.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.

Bargaining

Haggling is common in markets, but always do so politely.

Safety Guide

Safety

Putian is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay alert in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Always follow local laws and customs, and consider using reputable transportation services at night.

Tipping in Putian

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not common in China, but small tips for exceptional service are appreciated.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used; cash is also accepted.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather and blooming flowers make it an excellent time for outdoor activities and temple visits.

Summer

Hot and humid; perfect for beach activities but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Cool and pleasant; ideal for hiking and enjoying outdoor festivals.

Winter

Cool temperatures with less rainfall; suitable for exploring historical sites and enjoying local cuisine indoors.

Nightlife Guide

Putian at Night

Putian's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with a variety of options ranging from night markets to local bars. Popular night markets offer delicious street food and shopping opportunities, while bars provide a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying drinks with friends. Live music venues and occasional cultural performances add to the city's lively nighttime ambiance.

Hiking in Putian

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Dongshan Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and coastline.

Nanshan Mountain Trail

A moderate hike suitable for all skill levels, featuring lush greenery and cultural landmarks along the way.

Airports

How to reach Putian by plane.

Putian Airport (PUT)

Located approximately 30 kilometers from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights to major Chinese cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Putian is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where many attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, but be cautious of traffic in busier areas. Walking along the coastal promenade is also a pleasant experience for visitors.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group, making up about 90% of the population, with a rich cultural heritage.

Hakka People

A significant minority group known for their distinctive dialect and cultural traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is widely popular among locals, with many youth clubs and amateur leagues.

Table Tennis

Table tennis is a common recreational activity and is played at various community centers and parks.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Putian is moderate, with peak hours during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, which are relatively affordable and convenient. However, traffic can become congested in busy areas, so plan accordingly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Putian.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about meat-based broths.

Gluten-Free Options

Options may be limited; inquire about specific dishes and sauces to avoid gluten.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Putian are accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and tourists. Major hospitals offer modern medical services, but language barriers may be an issue. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide