· CN

Putian

Putian, Fujian, China

Discover Putian: A Coastal Gem in Fujian, China Nestled along the southeastern coast of China, Putian (莆田, Fujian) is a city brimming with hidden gems. More than just a stop on the tourist trail, Putian offers a captivat…

#Putian#Fujian#China#Coastal city#Historic sites

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Putian.

Top Hotels in Putian

Top Flights to Putian

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Putian.

Tours

Mazu Cultural Park

Explore the rich cultural heritage of Mazu with temples, gardens, and statues dedicated to the sea goddess.

Shopping

Shengli Shopping Street

A bustling street filled with shops selling fashion, electronics, and local specialties.

Outdoor

Meizhou Island

A beautiful island known for its natural scenery and cultural sites, ideal for a day trip.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Putian.

Currency
¥ | CNY | Chinese Yuan
Population
3 million
Languages
Puxian Min, Puxian Min, Mandarin
Average weather
Putian
Jan
cloud
16°9°
Feb
cloud
17°10°
Mar
rain
20°13°
Apr
rain
24°17°
May
rain
28°21°
Jun
rain
31°24°
Jul
hot
34°26°
Aug
hot
34°26°
Sep
rain
31°24°
Oct
cloud
27°20°
Nov
cloud
23°15°
Dec
cloud
18°11°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Putian.

What people love

Putian, located in Fujian, China, offers several advantages for travelers. Some pros of traveling to Putian include:

  1. Cultural Exploration: Putian is rich in cultural heritage, with a history dating back to ancient times. Travelers can explore traditional Chinese architecture, temples, and museums to learn about the local culture and history.

  2. Scenic Beauty: Putian boasts beautiful natural landscapes, including picturesque mountains, rivers, and coastal areas. Nature lovers can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and relaxing by the seaside.

  3. Culinary Delights: Putian is famous for its delicious seafood dishes, especially fresh oysters and other seafood delicacies. Travelers can savor authentic Chinese cuisine and local specialties unique to the region.

  4. Historical Sites: Putian is home to historical sites such as Mazu Temple, dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. Visitors can explore ancient temples, pagodas, and other historical landmarks that offer insights into the region's past.

  5. Traditional Crafts: Putian is known for its traditional crafts, including pottery, tea making, and bamboo weaving. Travelers can visit local workshops to witness skilled artisans at work and purchase unique handmade souvenirs.

Overall, traveling to Putian can provide a rich cultural experience, stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and opportunities to explore the region's history and traditions.

What to know

Information on specific cons of traveling to Putian, Fujian, China, might not be readily available, but I can provide some general considerations that travelers might want to keep in mind when visiting any city, including Putian:

  1. Language Barrier: Like many parts of China, English may not be widely spoken, especially outside of major tourist areas. This could pose a challenge for travelers who do not speak Mandarin or the local dialect.

  2. Weather Conditions: Putian has a subtropical climate, which can be hot and humid in the summer and chilly and damp in the winter. Travelers should be prepared for the weather and plan accordingly.

  3. Transportation: While major cities in China have extensive public transportation systems, smaller cities like Putian might have less developed infrastructure. Getting around might require some planning, especially if you are not familiar with local transportation options.

  4. Cultural Differences: As with any travel abroad, cultural differences can be a challenge. Understanding local customs and etiquette is important to avoid misunderstandings.

  5. Limited Tourist Information: Putian might not have as much tourist information available in English compared to larger cities, which can make planning activities and navigating the area more difficult for international travelers.

  6. Pollution: Like many urban areas in China, Putian might experience air pollution. Checking pollution levels and taking precautions if necessary can be important for health, especially for sensitive individuals.

These considerations are general and might not apply specifically to Putian, but they are common factors that travelers to any less internationally frequented city in China might encounter.

Putian, located in the eastern part of Fujian Province in China, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It is situated along the coast of the Taiwan Strait, which has made it an important location for trade and cultural exchanges throughout history.

Historical Overview:

  1. Ancient Times:

    • The region that is now Putian was inhabited by the Minyue people during the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BCE). It was part of the ancient Baiyue tribes that occupied much of southern China.
    • During the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE), the area was brought under Chinese imperial control, and its development as part of the Chinese cultural sphere began.
  2. Tang Dynasty (618–907):

    • Putian was officially established during the Tang Dynasty. In 568 CE, the county of Putian was founded, marking its emergence as an administrative region.
    • The Tang period was a time of significant cultural and economic development for Putian, as it became a hub for trade and maritime activities.
  3. Song Dynasty (960–1279):

    • During the Song Dynasty, Putian was a prosperous region, benefiting from its strategic coastal location. It became known for its shipbuilding and trade with other parts of China and overseas.
    • This era also saw the growth of Buddhism and the construction of many temples in the area.
  4. Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368–1912):

    • The Ming and Qing Dynasties saw continued prosperity in Putian. The area was known for its production of rice and sugarcane, as well as its skilled craftsmen.
    • Putian's maritime trade connections continued to thrive, contributing to its wealth and cultural richness.
  5. Modern Era:

    • In the 20th century, Putian experienced significant changes, especially during the Chinese Civil War and the subsequent establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949.
    • The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw rapid industrialization and economic development in Putian, transforming it into a modern urban center.

Significant Historical Figures:

  • Lin Zexu (1785–1850): Although not born in Putian, Lin Zexu is a prominent historical figure from Fujian Province. He was a leading scholar and official in the Qing Dynasty, known for his role in the opium trade conflict leading up to the First Opium War.

Important Landmarks:

  1. Mazu Temple on Meizhou Island:

    • Meizhou Island, part of Putian, is renowned as the birthplace of Mazu, the sea goddess worshiped by many in the Chinese diaspora. The Mazu Temple there is a major pilgrimage site and cultural landmark.
  2. South Shaolin Monastery:

    • The South Shaolin Monastery, although its exact historical existence is debated, is part of the local folklore and martial arts heritage in the region.
  3. Dongzhen Reservoir:

    • A significant modern infrastructure project, the reservoir is a key feature in Putian's water management and landscape.

Putian's unique blend of historical, cultural, and economic development has made it an important city in Fujian Province. It continues to be a vibrant area with a rich heritage and a promising future.