Discover Quanzhou's rich maritime heritage with tours exploring its pivotal role on the ancient Silk Road.
Quanzhou, once a bustling metropolis known as Zayton to Arab traders, stands as a testament to China's ancient maritime prowess. Its harbor was a crucial nexus for trade and cultural exchange along the legendary Maritime Silk Road, connecting East and West for centuries. Exploring Quanzhou through its Maritime Silk Road tours offers a unique window into this glorious past, allowing visitors to walk in the footsteps of merchants, explorers, and cultural emissaries. These tours delve into the city's historical significance, showcasing well-preserved relics and sites that narrate tales of seafaring adventures and thriving commerce. From ancient ports and temples to museums housing precious artifacts, Quanzhou's Maritime Silk Road tours provide a comprehensive understanding of its contribution to global history. They are designed for those who appreciate history, culture, and the captivating stories of human connection across vast distances. Prepare to be immersed in a narrative of trade, religion, and innovation that shaped not only China but the world.
Discover our top picks for maritime silk road tours in Quanzhou

Spend a full day with a fully-licensed guide to visit the top famed historical highlights in Quanzhou which was once an international port city on the maritime Silk Route. Marco Polo regarded the location as "one of the ports of the world with the biggest flow of merchandise". As the starting point of the Sea Silk Road, it accepted diverse religions including Christianity, Islam and Manichaeism, and today Quanzhou is called 'World Religions Museum'. Visit Kaiyuan Temple, one of China's largest and most important Buddhist temple, and the nearby Qingjing Mosque, the oldest Mosque in China and rated as one of the top ten Muslim holy sites of the world. Take a stroll around the nearby Guandi Temple dedicated to Guan Yu, and visit the Fuwen Temple built in Tang Dynasty as a memorial temple of Confucius, the greatest ideologist and the founder of Confucianism. Enjoy the flexibility of the custom-built private tour and explore the city at your desired way and pace.

Located on the south-east coast of China, the city of Quanzhou was one of the most important Chinese ports along the historic Maritime Silk Roads. Enjoy the flexibility of the custom-built private transfer and explore Quanzhou at your desired way and pace. Throughout it all, a private transfer will be readily available to serve you a safe journey ahead! Feel safe in the hands of an experienced driver who can also give you some local travel tips along the way. Customize your travel by choosing your transfer vehicle to suit your small or large traveling party. You can count on the available vehicles to fit you all in one convenient trip at a time! Wide ranges of vehicles from 5 seats to 55 seats available to cater different sizes of your group.

Choose a unique and flexible journey to explore Hui'an which is located on the coast of the Taiwan Strait in the southeast of Fujian province catered to your traveling wants and needs with the help of a private transfer! Hui’An “maidens” are famous for their unique dress and culture. Spend some time at the Hui’an Women’s Folklore Garden in Dazuo, a village in Hui’An county. This park is dedicated to sharing the history and culture of Hui’An women. Visit Chongwu Ancient City, the most famous attraction in the area. The 14th century walled city contains interesting architecture that is unique to this region. Take a stroll on the Xisha Bay wherehas a long strand of gorgeous beach, and a temple dedicated to martyrs of the People’s Liberation Army. You can count on the available vehicles to fit you all in one convenient trip at a time! Wide ranges of vehicles from 5 seats to 55 seats available to cater different sizes of your group.

Spend a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city and take a tour to the most must-see Anxi County which is known for its world class tea, especially the Tieguanyin type. Explore Qingshui Rock which is located in Fujian Province, Quanzhou City, Anxi County, Penglai Town, Penglai Mountain. Ancient known as Zhang Yanshan, it is full of beautiful mountains and waters, beautiful scenery, peak towering, peak ring and hazy clouds. Often in the vast sea of fog and clouds, such as "Penglai Wonderland". Take a walk through the China Tea Capital to seek how hot the tea market in Anxi is, have an in-depth knowledge of Chinese tea culture. Visit Anxi Tea Grand View Garden where tourists can fully enjoy the pleasure of returning to nature, feel the temptation of tea fragrance and charm, and understand the unique charm of tea culture.

Quanzhou was once a city of great cultural and religious diversity. It was the starting point of the famous Maritime Silk Road, the largest port city in the entire world, and now a major industrial power point for modern day China. Save time without compromising on experience on this door-to-door private guided tour that covers Quanzhou highlights and local snack experience. See multiple historic highlights of Quanzhou in a day A private tour means direct access to your guide for questions Enjoy local food: Zongzi(Traditional Chinese rice-pudding), Siguotang(Four fruit soup), or Chunjuan(Spring roll) Customize your tour to suit your unique interests

Quanzhou is an old harbour city where the Chinese started to sail to other countries since ancient time. There are old temples, old town, old bridge, and the earliest mosque in China, and the museum that are worth visiting. This private day tour will let you travel from Xiamen with a local guide to explore the Tianyuan Monastery, Luoyang Bridge, Guandi Temple, and Maritime Museum etc. Centrally located Xiamen hotel pickup and drop-off are included. Pickup time is 8:30am.

Spend a full day with a fully-licensed guide to visit the top famed attractions in Quanzhou which was once an international port city on the maritime Silk Route. Marco Polo regarded the location as "one of the ports of the world with the biggest flow of merchandise". As the starting point of the Sea Silk Road, it accepted diverse religions including Christianity, Islam and Manichaeism, and today Quanzhou is called 'World Religions Museum'. Climb Qingyuan Mountain which is known as “No.1 Penglai Mountain in Fujian Province” and the “Back garden of Quanzhou”, take a stroll around Kaiyuan Temple, one of China's largest and most important Buddhist temple, and visit The Quanzhou Maritime Museum which is an ideal place for you to have a panorama view of trading history of Quanzhou and the development of Chinese shipbuilding. Enjoy the flexibility of the custom-built private tour and explore the city at your desired way and pace.

Spend a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city and take a tour to the most must-see Anxi County which is known for its world class tea, especially the Tieguanyin type. Explore Qingshui Rock which is located in Fujian Province, Quanzhou City, Anxi County, Penglai Town, Penglai Mountain. Ancient known as Zhang Yanshan, it is full of beautiful mountains and waters, beautiful scenery, peak towering, peak ring and hazy clouds. Often in the vast sea of fog and clouds, such as "Penglai Wonderland". Take a walk through the China Tea Capital to seek how hot the tea market in Anxi is, have an in-depth knowledge of Chinese tea culture. Visit Anxi Tea Grand View Garden where tourists can fully enjoy the pleasure of returning to nature, feel the temptation of tea fragrance and charm, and understand the unique charm of tea culture.

Been China's marine door to exotic cultures since ancient times, Quanzhou is one of the most famous historical and cultural cities in China. While you are in Xiamen, spend full day with an expert guide to visit this starting point of the Maritime Silk Road. Transport by air-conditioned vehicle, English-speaking tour guide, entrance tickets and local lunch are all included. Visit the largest Buddhist temple in Fujian - Kaiyuan Temple, see the oldest Arab-style mosque in China - Qingjing Mosque, stroll around the Guandi Temple dedicated to Guan Yu, and visit the only museum in China specializing in overseas relations, the Quanzhou Maritime Museum.

Spend the wonderful two-day private tour discovering the beautiful coastal city Xiamen from its old and modern perspectives and visit the top famed historical highlights in Quanzhou which was once an international port city on the maritime Silk Route. Explore four of Xiamen's most must-see attractions: Nanputuo Temple, Huli Mountain Fort ,Gulangyu Island and Huandao Road. Visit Kaiyuan Temple, one of China's largest and most important Buddhist temple, and the nearby South Shaolin Temple which has been in existence for thousands of years. Take a stroll around Qingyuan Mountain which is considered to be the best natural and cultural landscape in Quanzhou. Tours include hotel pick-up and drop off in a private air-conditioned vehicle and all the entrance fees and admission tickets.

Been China's marine door to exotic cultures since ancient times, Quanzhou is one of the most famous historical and cultural cities in China. While you are in Xiamen, spend full-day with an expert guide to explore the famous historical highlights in Quanzhou, visit the famed Kaiyuan Buddhism Temple, one of the top ten Muslim holy sites of Qingjing Mosque, the nearby Guandi Temple Quanzhou Maritime Museum.

Spend a full day with a fully-licensed guide to visit the top famed attractions in Hui’An, a county about 30km outside the city center of Quanzhou, Fujian in Southern China. Hui’An “maidens” are famous for their unique dress and culture. Although they are not a minority group perse, their colorful costumes and unique head covering are reminiscent of some of China’s minority tribes. Spend some time at the Hui’an Women’s Folklore Garden in Dazuo, a village in Hui’An county. This park is dedicated to sharing the history and culture of Hui’An women. Visit Chongwu Ancient City, the most famous attraction in the area. The 14th century walled city contains interesting architecture that is unique to this region. Take a stroll on the Xisha Bay wherehas a long strand of gorgeous beach, and a temple dedicated to martyrs of the People’s Liberation Army. Enjoy the flexibility of the custom-built private tour and explore the city at your desired way and pace.

Spend a full day with a fully-licensed guide to visit the top famed attractions in Hui’An, a county about 30km outside the city center of Quanzhou, Fujian in Southern China. Hui’An “maidens” are famous for their unique dress and culture. Although they are not a minority group perse, their colorful costumes and unique head covering are reminiscent of some of China’s minority tribes. Spend some time at the Hui’an Women’s Folklore Garden in Dazuo, a village in Hui’An county. This park is dedicated to sharing the history and culture of Hui’An women. Visit Chongwu Ancient City, the most famous attraction in the area. The 14th century walled city contains interesting architecture that is unique to this region. Take a stroll on the Xisha Bay wherehas a long strand of gorgeous beach, and a temple dedicated to martyrs of the People’s Liberation Army. Enjoy the flexibility of the custom-built private tour and explore the city at your desired way and pace.

Dehua, located in the northwest of Quanzhou City, Fujian Province, is known worldwide for its porcelain and was once one of the three ancient capitals of Chinese porcelain. In addition to its splendid ceramics culture, Dehua is also renowned for its natural beauty. Visit Shunmei Ceramics Culture Center to see various ancient white-porcelain statues and household china, and learn about the production process. Take ample time admire the Daixian Waterfall. The water of the Daixian Waterfall is straight down from the gap of the mountain. Standing under the waterfall, you can see the rainbow formed by the mist falling down the stream, which is especially beautiful and spectacular. Throughout it all, a private transfer will be readily available to serve you a safe journey ahead!
Quanzhou was a major hub on the Maritime Silk Road, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering unparalleled insights into ancient trade and cultural exchange.
Experience the blend of Chinese, Arab, Persian, and other cultures that flourished here, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
Go beyond the usual tourist path and discover the genuine spirit of this historic port city, guided by knowledgeable local experts.
Visit remarkably preserved sites like the ancient port, historic mosques, and ancient temples that speak volumes about its vibrant past.
Find and compare a wide range of tours from various reputable operators on one platform for seamless planning.
Choose from a variety of tour durations, focuses, and group sizes to suit your interests and budget.
These tours focus on Quanzhou's most significant historical landmarks, including the UNESCO World Heritage sites related to the Maritime Silk Road. Expect visits to ancient ports, temples, and museums housing artifacts that tell the story of global trade.
Experience Quanzhou's living history through immersive walking tours of its old districts. These tours often include exploring traditional neighborhoods, local markets, and understanding the daily life that has been shaped by its maritime heritage.
For a more personalized experience, private tours allow you to tailor your itinerary to specific interests, whether it's focusing on religious history, trade routes, or specific cultural aspects. These tours offer maximum flexibility and dedicated guide attention.
Combine your exploration of Quanzhou's Maritime Silk Road history with nearby attractions. These can range from half-day excursions focusing on key sites to full-day itineraries that offer a broader perspective of Fujian's coastal heritage.
Most tours range from 3-4 hours for focused site visits to 8-hour full-day experiences that cover multiple locations and offer deeper historical context.
Quanzhou has a subtropical monsoon climate. Summers (June-August) are hot and humid, while winters (December-February) are mild. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for touring.
Group sizes vary from small, intimate tours of 4-8 people to larger guided groups of 15-20. Private tours offer exclusive experiences for your party.
Typically includes a knowledgeable local guide, entrance fees to specified attractions, and sometimes local transportation. Always check the specific tour details for inclusions.
Meeting points are usually at the main entrance of the first attraction, your hotel lobby, or a designated central landmark. This will be clearly stated in your booking confirmation.
Prices start around $30 USD for shorter, group tours and can go up to $200 USD or more for full-day private experiences. Costs depend on duration, inclusions, and group size.
Book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (spring and autumn) to secure your preferred dates and tour operators.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as many tours involve significant walking on uneven historical surfaces.
Carry water, especially during warmer months, and consider sun protection like hats and sunscreen.
Familiarize yourself with basic Mandarin phrases if you plan to interact with locals outside of organized tours; however, most guides will be bilingual.
Be prepared to remove your shoes before entering temples and mosques; dress respectfully with shoulders and knees covered.
Keep an eye on the weather forecast and pack accordingly; a light rain jacket can be useful even in drier months.
Don't hesitate to ask your guide questions. They are a wealth of local knowledge and historical insights.
Consider booking a tour that includes a tasting of local Fujian cuisine to enhance your cultural experience.
A: Key sites include the Quanzhou Maritime Museum, Qingjing Mosque, Kaiyuan Temple, the remnants of the ancient port, and various ancient streets and temples that showcase the city's rich history as a global trading hub.
A: Yes, many tours can be adapted for families. Look for tours that focus on visually interesting historical sites and interactive elements. Younger children might find full-day tours tiring, so consider half-day options.
A: The most pleasant times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and less humid, ideal for exploring outdoor historical sites.
A: Most tours are conducted in English, and guides are trained to cater to international visitors. However, knowing a few basic Mandarin phrases can always be helpful for personal interactions.
A: Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, especially in warmer months. For visiting religious sites, ensure your attire covers your shoulders and knees.
A: While it's always best to book in advance, especially for popular tours or during peak season, last-minute bookings are sometimes possible. Check availability on the platform for your desired dates.
A: This varies by tour operator and package. Most comprehensive tours will list entrance fees as included. Always verify this detail in the tour description before booking.
A: Quanzhou was exceptionally significant due to its large, diverse international population and its role as a primary starting point for maritime voyages to Southeast Asia, the Indian Ocean, and beyond, making it a true melting pot of cultures.
Discover Quanzhou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for its rich Maritime Silk Road history.
Experience the vibrant blend of Chinese culture and Islamic influences in this ancient port city.
Savor authentic Fujian cuisine and explore bustling local markets for a true taste of Quanzhou.
Uncover centuries of religious tolerance evident in Quanzhou's diverse array of temples and mosques.
Wander through narrow alleyways and discover hidden artisanal workshops, a unique Quanzhou experience.
Immerse yourself in the living history of Quanzhou, a city where the past truly comes alive.
Quanzhou experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, rainy summers and mild, relatively dry winters. Typhoons can occur during the summer and early autumn months, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity.
The ideal months to visit Quanzhou are from October to December and March to May. During these periods, the weather is mild and less humid, perfect for exploring the city's historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
The peak tourist season typically falls during the summer months (June to August) and national holidays like Golden Week in October. Expect higher temperatures, increased humidity, larger crowds at popular attractions, and potentially higher accommodation prices.
The off-season generally includes the winter months (December to February) and parts of the shoulder seasons. While winter can be cooler and occasionally damp, you'll find fewer tourists and more competitive prices on flights and accommodation.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Step back in time and marvel at Quanzhou's rich architectural heritage with guided walks exploring its historic heart.
Explore Quanzhou's vibrant food markets and savor authentic Fujian flavors on guided culinary adventures.
Discover Quanzhou's vibrant cultural evenings and traditional performances with expertly guided tours.
Discover Quanzhou's rich religious heritage, from ancient Buddhist temples to historic Islamic mosques, with expertly guided tours.
Discover Quanzhou's rich artisan heritage through engaging workshops that let you create your own masterpiece, from intricate paper cuttings to vibrant porcelain.
Getting around Quanzhou is straightforward. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available and affordable for longer distances. Within the historic city center, walking is often the best way to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems. Local buses connect major attractions, offering a budget-friendly option for exploring Quanzhou. For a more unique experience, consider renting a bicycle to navigate the charming streets at your own pace.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Find the perfect accommodation for your Quanzhou adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.