Quanzhou, nestled on China’s southeastern coast in Fujian Province, is a city that boasts an illustrious heritage as the starting point of the ancient Maritime Silk Road. Once China’s largest and most vital port, Quanzhou has long been a nexus of trade and cultural exchange. Its significance in global tourism today stems from this rich history, drawing visitors interested in exploring a world where ancient traditions and modern vitality meet.
At the 6th China-France Cultural Forum in Beijing on November 14, 2024, Quanzhou’s mayor, Cai Zhansheng, highlighted the city’s cultural assets and growing tourism appeal. The forum, part of the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism, brought together representatives from major cities and institutions from both nations to foster mutual understanding. As a symbol of ancient trade and global cooperation, Quanzhou took center stage, showcasing its deep cultural legacy and UNESCO-recognized heritage.
Quanzhou’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its role on the Maritime Silk Road speaks to its historical impact. This ancient route connected China with regions as far as the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. Flourishing during the Song and Yuan dynasties, Quanzhou became a vibrant center for merchants from Persia, Arabia, and Southeast Asia, each leaving a cultural footprint that endures today.
With its blend of ancient temples, mosques, and Buddhist shrines, Quanzhou invites cultural tourists to step back in time. Iconic sites like the Kaiyuan Temple and the Qingjing Mosque embody the city’s multicultural heritage, offering visitors a unique window into ancient China’s embrace of diverse religious and cultural influences.
Quanzhou’s appeal is not limited to its ancient past. Known for its thriving industries, the city leads China in porcelain exports, with products shipped to over 190 countries. Quanzhou’s artisanal heritage, especially in porcelain-making, is a highlight for tourists who can visit workshops and markets to see this traditional craft up close. The city’s renowned Tieguanyin tea, honored by UNESCO and the FAO as a globally significant agricultural heritage product, is another cultural attraction, with tea gardens and traditional tea ceremonies drawing visitors from around the world.
In addition, Quanzhou’s role as a leader in sports product manufacturing makes it an appealing destination for business tourism, showcasing a dynamic economy that complements its cultural richness.
Quanzhou’s diversity is one of its defining features. Known as a “Museum of World Religions,” the city has a long-standing tradition of inclusivity dating back to the Song and Yuan dynasties when a third of its population was foreign. This legacy of tolerance and exchange remains visible in its historical religious sites, from Buddhist temples to Christian churches and mosques, offering modern visitors an immersive experience of coexistence.
Quanzhou’s ties with France have furthered its reputation on the global stage. Since 2010, Quanzhou has partnered with Hérault, France, through a sister city agreement, fostering continuous cultural exchanges. Events such as the biennial “Blanc de Chine” porcelain arts competition attract international artists, while the presentation of Quanzhou’s traditional costumes at the 2024 China-France Fashion Week highlights the city’s unique cultural identity.
In the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism, Quanzhou leverages these exchanges to promote its heritage, reaching a broader international audience.
At the forum, Mayor Cai extended an invitation to the world, encouraging visitors to experience Quanzhou’s vibrant history and culture. He emphasized the role of cultural exchanges in strengthening tourism, culture, and trade, affirming Quanzhou’s commitment to becoming a premier global destination.
With its UNESCO World Heritage status, its pivotal role on ancient trade routes, and its thriving industries, Quanzhou stands as a multifaceted destination offering a deep, layered experience. As cultural tourism continues to grow, Quanzhou is poised to attract a new wave of international visitors drawn to its unique blend of history, heritage, and modern enterprise.
Quanzhou’s story, celebrated on the world stage, is a testament to its enduring legacy and dynamic future in the global tourism landscape.
