Revitalizing Quanzhou’s World Heritage Sites Fuels Tourism Growth in Southeastern China

Published on November 22, 2025

Revitalizing tourism through historical heritage has been the case for Quanzhou’s (Fujian Province, China), a city with a deep-rooted story to tell. Quanzhou was once a major port city and was recognized as the Emporium of the World of the Song-Yuan China. Now, Quanzhou is receiving recognition around the world for it is the new home of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Quanzhou is now a world tourist destination, especially for people interested in a variety of global cultures and historical monuments.

The Power of UNESCO World Heritage Status

In recent years, Quanzhou has worked hard to bring its historical significance into the spotlight. The recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site has added a fresh energy to the city’s inbound tourism market. Visitors flock to Quanzhou, lured by the promise of experiencing its ancient landmarks, from the famous Kaiyuan Temple to the Qingjing Mosque, offering a blend of architectural marvels that tell stories of the city’s past.

Tourism Surge: A 95.5% Increase in International Visits

In the first half of 2025, Quanzhou saw a surge in international visitors. According to recent data, the city welcomed approximately 403,900 international tourists, marking a staggering 95.5% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Tourism revenue from international visitors reached an impressive 2.995 billion yuan (around US$421 million), reflecting an 83.3% growth. These numbers highlight Quanzhou’s growing appeal as a world-class tourism destination.

Streamlining Travel for Global Visitors

One of the key factors behind this surge in tourism is Quanzhou’s 240-hour visa-free transit program. This initiative has made it easier for international travelers to explore the city without the hassle of long visa processes. The convenience of this program has significantly boosted the city’s accessibility, making it a prime destination for global tourists seeking to explore China’s cultural and historical gems.

Cultural Tourism Routes: Discover Quanzhou’s Heritage

Quanzhou’s focus on developing tourist routes that highlight its UNESCO World Heritage sites has played a pivotal role in attracting visitors. The city offers unique experiences that span various historical periods and cultures. Travelers can marvel at the ancient architecture of the Kaiyuan Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in China. They can also explore the Qingjing Mosque, an excellent example of Islamic architecture that reflects the city’s diverse cultural influences.

Each heritage site tells a different part of the story of Quanzhou’s past as a vital stop along the Maritime Silk Road. The city’s historical importance as a trade hub is brought to life through these cultural landmarks, offering a rich and immersive experience for tourists.

Promoting Quanzhou as an International Tourism Brand

To enhance its international profile, Quanzhou has launched the “Maritime Silk Road Quanzhou” tourism promotion program. This initiative has positioned the city among the top 100 Asian tourist destinations on the Ctrip platform, a leading online travel service provider in China. The recognition has contributed to an increased global reputation, further attracting tourists from around the world.

Global Cooperation in Heritage Conservation

Quanzhou’s efforts go beyond tourism development. The city is committed to preserving its heritage through international cooperation. It has collaborated with cities along the Maritime Silk Road to share best practices in heritage conservation and cultural tourism development. These partnerships help ensure that Quanzhou’s historic sites are preserved for future generations while fostering cultural exchange and tourism growth.

Future Plans for Quanzhou’s Cultural Tourism Industry

Looking ahead, Quanzhou plans to deepen its relationship with UNESCO and other international organizations to promote its heritage conservation efforts globally. The city aims to introduce advanced international concepts in cultural tourism to further develop its tourism industry. By integrating global expertise and local traditions, Quanzhou hopes to continue its trajectory of growth and ensure the sustainable development of its cultural tourism sector.

Additionally, the city intends to explore the potential of cross-border cultural trade. By leveraging its World Heritage intellectual property, Quanzhou plans to export its intangible cultural heritage products and creative goods to global markets, thus broadening its economic reach and enhancing its cultural influence worldwide.

Top Heritage Sites to Visit in Quanzhou

For travelers planning a visit to Quanzhou, here are some of the must-see heritage sites:

1. Kaiyuan Temple: An iconic Buddhist temple with a history dating back over 1,200 years, featuring magnificent architecture and serene landscapes.
2. Qingjing Mosque: A striking example of Islamic architecture, reflecting Quanzhou’s role as a key cultural melting pot on the Maritime Silk Road.
3. The Old City: Explore Quanzhou’s ancient streets and alleys that have witnessed centuries of history and trade.
4. The Maritime Museum: Dedicated to Quanzhou’s role in global maritime trade, showcasing artifacts and stories from the Silk Road era.
5. Luoyang Bridge: An architectural masterpiece, this ancient bridge is a symbol of the city’s ingenuity in engineering.

These sites, along with many others, offer a fascinating journey through Quanzhou’s diverse history and vibrant culture, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

A Promising Future for Quanzhou Tourism

Quanzhou’s revitalization as a UNESCO World Heritage city is transforming it into a major player in the global tourism market. The city’s focus on heritage conservation, coupled with its strategic tourism promotion efforts, is attracting increasing numbers of international visitors. As Quanzhou continues to preserve its cultural legacy while embracing modern tourism practices, it is poised to become one of China’s top travel destinations in the years to come.

For those planning to explore Quanzhou, now is the perfect time to experience its vibrant history, stunning architecture, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a cultural enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a unique travel experience, Quanzhou offers something for everyone.

Travel Guide to Quanzhou: Tips for Visitors

• Getting There: Quanzhou is accessible via the Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport, which offers domestic and international flights. You can also take high-speed trains from major cities like Xiamen or Fuzhou.
• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Quanzhou is from October to April, when the weather is mild and suitable for sightseeing.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on Quanzhou’s local dishes, such as Wonton Soup, Seafood Noodles, and Fujian-style Dumplings.
• Getting Around: Public transportation, including buses and taxis, is readily available. For a more authentic experience, try exploring the city’s ancient streets on foot.
• Accommodation: Quanzhou offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable stay for all types of travelers.

To sum things up, Quanzhou is a city overflowing with Chinese culture and history. Along with the city’s culture, it also contains some of China’s and the World’s best practices in cultural tourism. The city is multi bold in tourism as it is now and is sure to be the same as it bolds the culture along with its set strategies to keep Quanzhou a World cultural focal point.