After an enriching two weeks of travel, we set our sights on our next destination: 漳州 (Zhangzhou). Departing from the serene 云水谣, we made our way to the local bus stop, hoping to catch a connecting bus to Zhangzhou. However, our plans took an unexpected turn when the connecting bus at 南靖县 failed to arrive, leaving us stranded under the sweltering midday sun. Rather than wait indefinitely, we decided to book a cab that would take us directly to our hotel in Zhangzhou.
Upon arrival at 印象居酒店 (Impression Residence Hotel), our luck seemed to turn around. We were delighted to receive a complimentary upgrade to a mini-suite, complete with a cozy living room. The spacious and comfortable setup was exactly what we needed for this slower-paced leg of our journey. After the whirlwind adventures in Xiamen and Yunshuiyao, Zhangzhou became our haven for rest and rejuvenation.
漳州 is a city steeped in history, with roots tracing back more than 1,300 years. Known for its flourishing agriculture and rich cultural heritage, the city effortlessly blends ancient traditions with modern development. Our focus during this visit was the charming 漳州古城 (Zhangzhou Old Town), a place where history seems to whisper from every cobblestone and red brick wall.
As we wandered through the narrow streets of the ancient town, we felt as though we had stepped back in time. The cobblestone lanes were lined with beautifully preserved buildings in the classic Southern Fujian architectural style. Their distinctive red brick walls, elaborately carved wooden doors, and gracefully tiled roofs reflected the craftsmanship of the Ming and Qing dynasties. These historic structures housed an eclectic mix of artisan workshops, quaint cafes, and boutique shops, adding a vibrant energy to the old town’s timeless charm. Every turn revealed a piece of Zhangzhou’s past, and we found ourselves captivated by the stories hidden within its architecture.
On our first evening, we stumbled upon an unexpected delight—a traditional puppet show performed in front of a local temple. It was a rare and nostalgic sight, as this centuries-old art form has nearly vanished in Singapore. We paused to watch, enthralled by the skillful puppeteers and the lively expressions of their delicate creations. The performance added a magical touch to our day, connecting us with Zhangzhou’s rich cultural tapestry.
Food, as always, was a highlight of our journey. Zhangzhou’s cuisine was both familiar and delightful, with flavors that resonated deeply with us as Singaporeans. We sampled local specialties like crispy fried carrot cake, chewy 麻糍 (mochi), and savory 卤面 (braised noodles). Each bite carried a comforting sense of home while offering a unique Zhangzhou twist.
One of the standout landmarks of the old town was the 漳州文庙 (Zhangzhou Confucian Temple). This beautifully preserved site, dedicated to Confucius, stood as a testament to the region’s enduring scholarly traditions. Its classical Chinese architecture, featuring intricately carved stone pillars and serene courtyards, exuded a quiet elegance. Wandering through its grounds, we admired the stone tablets and calligraphy, which offered glimpses into Zhangzhou’s historical reverence for learning and culture.
As our time in Zhangzhou drew to a close, the weather began to change dramatically. Typhoon Gamei, having just crossed Taiwan, was heading toward northern Fujian Province, with Fuzhou and Putian bracing for its impact. While Zhangzhou, located in southern Fujian, lay outside the typhoon’s direct path, we still felt the effects of its powerful winds and relentless rain. This unexpected development added a tinge of concern about our next destination—东山岛 (Dongshan Island), located at the southernmost tip of the province. However, we reassured ourselves that being on the edge of the typhoon’s radius would likely make it safe to proceed with our plans.
Overall, our time in Zhangzhou was a much-needed respite. The slow pace allowed us to rest well and appreciate the city’s historical and cultural treasures, leaving us recharged for the adventures to come.
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