Sanming Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and cultural experiences in Sanming, China. Plan your trip with our comprehensive guide today.


Introduction to Sanming

Located in inland Fujian, Sanming is a city that’s often overlooked by travelers who flock to coastal cities in the region. However, this city is a hidden gem that has a lot to offer visitors, from scenic natural attractions to culturally significant landmarks. Sanming is surrounded by pristine forests and mountains, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers. It’s also a great place to learn more about traditional Chinese culture and explore some of the country’s most notable historical sites.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top places to visit in Sanming, as well as some off-the-beaten-path attractions, must-try local dishes, and helpful travel tips to help you plan your trip with ease.

List of Places to Visit in Sanming

Sanming is home to a variety of attractions that cater to different interests. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s cultural heritage or take in its natural beauty, there’s something for everyone. We’ve divided these attractions into two categories: culturally important attractions and natural attractions.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in learning more about traditional Chinese culture, Sanming has plenty of museums and historical landmarks that are worth a visit. Here are a few must-see places:

  • Wuyishan National Scenic Area: This scenic area is located about an hour’s drive from Sanming and is home to a collection of mountains, rivers, and gorges. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its biological diversity and unique ecosystem. Visitors can participate in a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and river rafting.

  • Mount Qingyuan Scenic Area: This incredible mountain has been a popular destination for pilgrims for centuries. The area features a temple that is more than 1,900 years old, as well as a famous rock formation known as the “Immortal’s Palm.” Visitors can climb the mountain and take in stunning panoramic views of Sanming from the top.

  • Tianhong Scenic Area: This beautiful park features a statue of Mao Zedong, as well as a museum dedicated to the revolutionary leader’s life and work. Visitors can also enjoy scenic views of the surrounding countryside and participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating.

  • Qingliang Peak Natural Scenic Area: This scenic area is home to a collection of mountains, valleys, and waterfalls. Visitors can hike through the forest and experience the beauty of nature up close. There are a number of scenic overlooks that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Natural Attractions of Sanming: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sanming is known for its pristine forests and mountains, and there are a number of natural attractions that are worth exploring. Here are a few of the best spots:

  • Yong-an Forestry Station: This area is located about an hour’s drive from Sanming and is home to a beautiful forest that features a variety of trees, including magnolias, pine, and bamboo. Visitors can participate in a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

  • Shaxian County Scenic Area: This scenic area is located in the mountains near Sanming and features a number of waterfalls, streams, and pools. Visitors can hike through the forest and enjoy the beauty of nature up close. There are a number of scenic overlooks that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Tongluo Grand Canyon Scenic Area: This scenic area is located on the outskirts of Sanming and is known for its towering cliffs and deep gorges. Visitors can hike through the canyon and take in awe-inspiring views of the surrounding landscape. There are also a number of waterfalls and pools that visitors can explore.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sanming

For visitors who want to get out and explore Sanming’s stunning natural scenery, there are a number of hiking and biking trails that are worth checking out. Here are a few of the best:

  • Mount Qingyuan Scenic Area Hike: This hike takes visitors to the top of Mount Qingyuan, where they can take in panoramic views of Sanming. The trail is about 3.5 miles round-trip and is moderate in difficulty.

  • Tianhong Scenic Area Hike: This hike takes visitors through the beautiful Tianhong Scenic Area, where they can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The trail is about 5 miles round-trip and is easy to moderate in difficulty.

  • Yong-an Forestry Station Bike Ride: This bike ride takes visitors through the beautiful forest at Yong-an Forestry Station. The trail is about 18 miles round-trip and is easy to moderate in difficulty.

Best Things to Do in Sanming: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are a number of other activities and tours that visitors can enjoy in Sanming. Here are a few of the best:

  • Wuyishan Rafting Tour: This tour takes visitors down the tumultuous Nine-Bend Stream in Wuyishan National Scenic Area, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The tour is moderate in difficulty and takes about 2 hours.

  • Tongluo Grand Canyon Zipline Tour: This tour offers visitors the chance to zip-line across the Tongluo Grand Canyon, taking in stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The tour is moderate in difficulty and takes about 2 hours.

  • Sanming Hot Spring Bathing: Sanming is home to a number of hot springs that are perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking or sightseeing. Visitors can soak in the therapeutic waters of the spring and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sanming

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Sanming, here’s a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Sanming and take a day to rest and explore the city.

  • Day 2: Visit Mount Qingyuan and take in panoramic views of Sanming.

  • Day 3: Hike through the beautiful Tongluo Grand Canyon and explore the surrounding waterfalls and pools.

  • Day 4: Take a day trip to Wuyishan National Scenic Area and try your hand at rafting down the Nine-Bend Stream.

  • Day 5: Visit the Tianhong Scenic Area and learn more about Mao Zedong’s life and work.

  • Day 6: Explore the Yong-an Forestry Station and take in the natural beauty of the forest.

  • Day 7: Soak in one of Sanming’s hot springs and relax before heading home.

Food and Drink Scene of Sanming

Sanming is known for its local cuisine, which features a variety of fresh vegetables, meats, and seafood. Here are a few must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sanming Roast Duck: This dish is a local specialty that involves roasting duck over an open flame until the skin is crispy and the meat is juicy.

  • Buddha Jumps Over the Wall: This dish is a rich soup that includes a variety of ingredients, such as abalone, sea cucumber, and shark fin.

  • Sanming Fried Rice Noodles: This dish features rice noodles that are stir-fried with meat and vegetables and seasoned with soy sauce and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Sanming Yellow Wine: This wine is made from rice and is aged in earthenware jars for several years, giving it a unique flavor.

  • Sanming Tea: Sanming is known for its high-quality tea, which is grown in the surrounding mountains.

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

There are a number of accommodation options in Sanming that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are a few of the best:

  • Sanming Impression City Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Sanming and features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center.

  • Sanming Huatian Hotel: This hotel is located near Mount Qingyuan and features panoramic views of the city. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.

  • Mellow Orange Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located in the Yong-an Forestry Station and offers budget-friendly accommodation in a peaceful setting.

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home from Sanming, here are a few ideas:

  • Tea: Sanming is known for its high-quality tea, which makes a great gift for tea lovers.

  • Wooden Crafts: Sanming is home to a number of artisans who create beautiful wooden crafts, such as boxes, frames, and vases.

Local Culture and Customs of Sanming

Sanming is a city that’s proud of its heritage and traditions. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, such as removing shoes before entering someone’s home and addressing elders with the proper honorifics.

Best Time to Visit Sanming

The best time to visit Sanming is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sanming

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Sanming:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

  • Take your shoes off before entering someone’s home.

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural attractions.

  • Touch or disturb local wildlife.

  • Use disrespectful language or behavior toward locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sanming

Sanming is a relatively safe city, and violent crime is rare. However, visitors should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially when exploring natural attractions.

Health in Sanming

Sanming is a fairly healthy city, and visitors are unlikely to encounter any major health risks. However, it’s always a good idea to bring any necessary medications and to drink bottled water.

Getting to Sanming: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sanming is located in inland Fujian and is easily accessible by a variety of transportation options.

Airports Near Sanming

  • Sanming Shaxian Airport: This airport is located about 22 miles from Sanming and offers domestic flights to several cities in China.

  • Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport: This airport is located about 180 miles from Sanming and offers international flights as well as domestic flights to several cities in China.

Bus Stations Near Sanming

  • Sanming Central Bus Station: This bus station is located in the center of Sanming and offers bus services to several nearby cities.

Other Options

  • Train: Sanming is accessible by train from several cities in China, including Shanghai, Beijing, and Xiamen.

How to Get Around in Sanming

Sanming is a fairly small city, and most attractions are accessible by foot or by taxi. Visitors can also rent bicycles and e-bikes to explore the city on their own.

Where to Go Next from Sanming: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sanming is located in the heart of Fujian and is a gateway to several other popular destinations in the region. Here are a few nearby destinations worth exploring:

  • Xiamen: This coastal city is famous for its beaches, colonial architecture, and fresh seafood.

  • Fuzhou: This historic city is known for its temples, pagodas, and traditional architecture.

  • Nanjing Tulou: These ancient circular earthen buildings are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are one of China’s most unique architectural wonders.

Conclusion

Sanming is a city that’s rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in hiking through the forests, exploring traditional Chinese culture, or trying the local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this hidden gem of a city. We hope this travel guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Sanming, and we wish you a safe and enjoyable journey.

Position in Fujian province Position in Fujian province