Discovering Zhangzhou: A cultural and ecological gem in Fujian

A puppet show is staged at the Zhangzhou Ancient City in Zhangzhou, Fujian province, on May 19, 2024. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

Zhangzhou city in East China's Fujian province boasts an inclusive maritime culture and a deeply rooted Hakka culture. The beauty of its mountains and seas intertwines with its millennia-old civilization.

Members of the 2024 A Date with China international media tour visited Zhangzhou from May 19 to 21, exploring its ecological and cultural beauty.

The timeless charm of a 1,300-year-old ancient town

The Zhangzhou Ancient City, with a history spanning more than 1,300 years, is an important birthplace of the Hakka culture - rooted in migrants in southern China who originated from lands adjacent to the Yellow River. It's also a vital stop on the Maritime Silk Road.

The commercial prosperity of the Tang (618-907), Song (960-1279), Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties merged here, leaving a legacy of historical affluence.

A visit to the historic city would not be complete without experiencing its renowned glove puppet shows, which have a history of more than 1,000 years. Members of the 2024 A Date with China tour watched the puppetry performance, Daming Prefecture, on May 19, which featured traditional stunts such as acrobatics, lion dancing and martial arts.

Dongshan is the sixth largest island county in China. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

Dongshan, a treasure trove of sea culture

Located in Zhangzhou city, Dongshan is the sixth largest island county in China. Its azure skies, blue water, majestic bays, white sands, lush forests and scattered islands form a picturesque landscape.

Famous tourist destinations in Dongshan include the iconic Wind-moving Stone, the Nanmen Bay and the Guandi Temple which worships Guan Yu, an ancient general from the late Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220) known for his courage and faith. The worship of Guan Yu is still prevalent throughout China today.

Recalling her visit to Dongshan, Tunisian journalist Derouiche Asma said: "I like it so much. It reminds me of my hometown, with blue beaches, bird songs and vast blue skies. It took me back to the times with my family on vacation."

"The island is shaped like a butterfly," she added.