Pingtan Travel Guide

Plan your next getaway to Pingtan with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the must-see attractions, best hiking and biking routes, local culture and customs, where to stay and eat, and more.


Introduction to Pingtan

Located in East Fujian, in the Fujian province of China, Pingtan is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by avid travelers. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich culture, and history, Pingtan offers a unique perspective of China that one cannot find in other tourist destinations.

List of Places to Visit in Pingtan

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a culture buff, Pingtan has something to offer for everyone. Here are some must-visit attractions in Pingtan:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Haitan Ancient City: An ancient city dating back to the Tang Dynasty, offering a glimpse into Pingtan’s rich history.
  • Pingtan Island Museum: Featuring exhibits on Pingtan’s unique culture, including its fishing traditions and famous musicians.
  • Jiuli Lake Scenic Area: A popular destination featuring ancient buildings, stone roads, and traditional Chinese bridges.

Natural Attractions of Pingtan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dagu Mountain National Park: A scenic area located on the Dagu Mountains that offers breathtaking views of the Pingtan coast and beaches.
  • Qingshui Rock Scenic Area: A natural wonder featuring towering rock formations that resemble a herd of elephants.
  • Nanshan Scenic Area: A coastal park with a series of breathtaking cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pingtan

For adventure-seekers, hiking or biking in Pingtan is a must-do activity. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Dagu Mountain Hiking Trail: A scenic trail that passes through ancient ruins and offers stunning views of the Pingtan coastline.
  • Pingtan Island Hiking Trail: A secluded path that winds through Pingtan’s lush forests and stunning coastline.
  • Dongshan Island Biking Trail: A popular biking route that takes visitors through Dongshan Island’s rustic villages and countryside.

Best Things to Do in Pingtan: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities and tours to enjoy in Pingtan. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Try your hand at fishing: Pingtan is famous for its traditional fishing culture, and visitors can experience it firsthand by taking part in fishing tours and activities.
  • Taste the local cuisine: From fresh seafood to traditional Fujianese dishes, Pingtan offers a unique culinary experience that you won’t find anywhere else in China.
  • Attend a traditional performance: Pingtan is home to the Pingtan Opera, a popular form of traditional Chinese opera that has been recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pingtan

Here’s a week-long itinerary for exploring Pingtan:

Day 1-2: Explore the natural wonders of Pingtan - Dagu Mountain, Qingshui Rock, and Nanshan Scenic Area. Day 3: Delve into Pingtan’s rich history by visiting Haitan Ancient City and Pingtan Island Museum. Day 4: Take a hike through the Pingtan Island Hiking Trail and discover the island’s secluded forests and coastline. Day 5: Go on a fishing tour and immerse yourself in Pingtan’s traditional fishing culture. Day 6: Attend a Pingtan Opera performance and witness the beauty of traditional Chinese opera. Day 7: Relax on Pingtan’s beautiful beaches and enjoy some fresh seafood.

Food and Drink Scene of Pingtan

No trip to Pingtan is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pingtan Oyster Omelet: A local specialty made with fresh oysters, eggs, and sweet potato starch.
  • Fresh Seafood: Fresh seafood is a must-try in Pingtan, and visitors can enjoy everything from grilled squid to fried fish.
  • Fujian Fried Rice: A delicious variation of fried rice made with Fujianese-style black rice.

Local Beverages

  • Shancha: A traditional tea made with leaves from the Taimu Mountain area in Fujian.
  • Yellow Wine: A fermented rice wine that is a popular drink in Fujian.

Where to Stay in Pingtan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pingtan offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hilton Garden Inn: A 5-star hotel located in the heart of Pingtan’s central business district.
  • Jinjiang Inn: A budget-friendly hotel chain that offers clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
  • Guesthouses: There are plenty of guesthouses located throughout Pingtan that offer a more authentic and affordable stay.

What to Buy in Pingtan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for souvenirs to take home from Pingtan? Here are some suggestions:

  • Fish Traps: These traditional fishing traps are unique to Pingtan and make for an interesting and rare souvenir.
  • Handmade Crafts: Pingtan is home to many talented artists who create handmade crafts such as pottery and weaving.
  • Local Snacks: Pick up some local snacks such as roasted peanuts or dried seafood to enjoy at home.

Local Culture and Customs of Pingtan

Pingtan has a rich and unique culture, and visitors should take the time to understand and appreciate it. Here are some customs and traditions to keep in mind:

  • Etiquette: When attending a Pingtan Opera performance, be respectful and avoid making noise or disturbing others.
  • Fish Traps: If you’re visiting a fishing village, be respectful of the fishermen’s work and do not touch their nets or traps.
  • Local Dialect: Pingtan has its own dialect, which can be difficult to understand for those who only speak Mandarin.

Best Time to Visit Pingtan

The best time to visit Pingtan is during the spring and autumn seasons (March to May and September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be quite hot and humid, while winter can bring strong winds and cold temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pingtan

To make the most of your trip to Pingtan, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Explore the natural landscapes and cultural attractions of Pingtan.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Learn about Pingtan’s unique history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions of Pingtan.
  • Touch the fishermen’s nets or traps.
  • Make noise or disturb others during a Pingtan Opera performance.

Safety and Health

For a safe and healthy trip to Pingtan, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Pingtan

  • Be cautious when hiking or biking through Pingtan’s natural landscapes.
  • Avoid swimming in the ocean during typhoon season.
  • Beware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas.

Health in Pingtan

  • Drink bottled water to avoid getting sick from tap water.
  • Use mosquito repellent to prevent mosquito bites and the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

Getting to Pingtan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here’s how to get to Pingtan:

Airports Near Pingtan

  • Fuzhou Changle International Airport (FOC): The closest airport to Pingtan, located about a two-hour drive away.
  • Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN): Another nearby airport about a three-hour drive away.

Bus Stations Near Pingtan

  • Fuzhou South Bus Terminal: The closest bus terminal to Pingtan, with regular buses departing to Pingtan throughout the day.

Other Options

  • Private Car: Many hotels and travel agencies offer private car services to Pingtan.
  • Ferry: Visitors can take a ferry from Fuzhou City to Pingtan Island.

How to Get Around in Pingtan

While a rental car is the most convenient way to get around Pingtan, visitors can also use public transportation, taxis, or bicycles.

Where to Go Next from Pingtan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Fuzhou: The provincial capital of Fujian, Fuzhou is known for its elegant architecture and rich history.
  • Xiamen: Located on the coast of Fujian, Xiamen is famous for its beautiful beaches and island scenery.
  • Gulangyu Island: A car-free island located just off the coast of Xiamen, known for its stunning natural landscapes and colonial architecture.

Conclusion

With its stunning natural landscapes, rich culture, and history, Pingtan is a destination that should definitely be on your travel bucket list. With this comprehensive travel guide, you have everything you need to plan the perfect trip to this hidden gem of East China.