Driven by its coastal geography and strong maritime trade networks, South China has always been outward-looking with many overseas Chinese able to trace their ancestry to one of the communities that still inhabit the region today. The most diasporic among these migrants are the Hoklo and Hakka, who played a crucial role in the lucrative trades and cultural exchanges and left a distinct stamp on Fujian’s history, architecture, language, and cuisine.
- All-inclusive | small private groups,
- Personal Explorer (your multilingual host & chauffeur),
- 3 to 8 days bespoke programs,
- Start from/end at Xiamen (XMN),
- Available all year (late autumn to early spring best time),
- Average 1,200 - 2,500 RMB per person per day,
- Kids aged 6-12 get 10% discount | kids aged <6 free of charge.
FUJIAN | FACING THE SEA
LEGACY OF AMOY
>> HERITAGE ARCHITECTURE | LOCAL CUISINE & ACTIVITIES
Make your way to the heart of Xiamen's historic district and stroll colonial-style arcades, enjoy a fresh seafood feast at the lively Bashi Market, or watch the sunset at one of the beaches while learning a bit more about cross-strait relations. Perhaps extend your trip with an overnight stay at Gulangyu Island, once a foreign enclave now hugely popular with the social media crowds.
ROAD TO ZAYTON
>> HERITAGE ARCHITECTURE | RELIGIOUS ARTEFACTS
Stop at China’s longest stone bridge and the country's only Hindu shrine on your way to Quanzhou, terminus of the maritime Silk Road. Delve into the city’s cosmopolitan past by exploring the old quarter's maze of alleyways, lined with architecture in local Minnan and foreign styles.
BEHIND HAKKA WALLS
>> HAKKA CULTURE & ARCHITECTURE | NATURAL ENVIRONMENT | HIKING
Travel to a secluded mountain hamlet to stay overnight in a still inhabited 400-year-old square tulou and immerse yourself in Hakka village life. Hike an old trading trail over the tea bush covered hills and maybe get hands on with the tea making process after. An optional visit to the more famous tulou clusters around can be included as well, or just enjoy the peace and quiet of the village.
GUANGDONG | HOME OF THE HAKKA
LITTLE HONG KONG
>> HAKKA CULTURE, CUISINE & ARCHITECTURE
Stop by a well-preserved commercial river town, for centuries the gathering point for inland Hakka who wished to leave China and try their luck abroad. The town’s overseas connections are reflected in its foreign inspired architecture and is therefore dubbed “Little Hong Kong”. Climb to the top of the nearby pagoda for great views.
HAKKA DRAGON HOUSES
>> HAKKA CULTURE, CUISINE & ARCHITECTURE
The area near the “capital of Hakka culture” is known for a unique version of the communal stronghold. The fortunate combination of merchant wealth and safe surroundings make that feng shui principles, rather than defensive purposes, dictated the design of the local weilongwu or dragon houses.
A WORD ON ACCOMMODATION
Our Fujian programs include a selection of authentic homestays, boutique guesthouses, and contemporary urban hotels. While our tulou homestay is more basic with shared commodities (guests only), the other lodgings come equipped with all expected comforts and modern conveniences.