Things To Do
in Zhangzhou

A simple nod or verbal greeting (你好 / nǐ hǎo) is fine; show respect in temples (dress modestly, speak quietly and follow donation/photography rules).

Communal dishes are common; wait to be shown seating at formal meals, and it’s polite to try a bit of several dishes. Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice (it resembles funeral incense).

If visiting a home, small gifts (tea, fruit) are appreciated. Accept or offer items with both hands to be polite.

Zhangzhou includes Hokkien (Min) and Hakka communities — be respectful of local traditions, dialects and religious practices when photographing or interacting with locals.

Tipping is not generally expected in Zhangzhou; small tips may be appreciated at high-end hotels or in guided tours but are not customary for day-to-day services. In KTV or upscale restaurants a service charge may already be included.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate urban and many rural merchants; cash (RMB) is still useful for markets, small vendors and in some villages. International credit cards work at larger hotels and some restaurants but are less common in local businesses.

Mild temperatures and blossoming scenery make spring pleasant for outdoor exploration and visiting tea terraces; occasional rain showers begin to increase toward late spring.

Hot, humid and rainy — expect high temperatures, frequent thunderstorms and the typhoon season (peaks July–September). Coastal breezes help, but plan indoor alternatives on stormy days.

Generally the most comfortable season with cooler, drier days and clearer skies — excellent for hiking, Tulou visits and seaside activities.

Mild winters compared with northern China: cool and damp rather than snowy. Layered clothing is usually enough; some inland hills can be chilly in the mornings.

The nearest major international airport (about 30–60 km depending on location in Zhangzhou). Regular shuttle buses, taxis and car transfers connect Zhangzhou with Xiamen airport; many travelers fly into Xiamen and continue by bus, ferry or train.

Another regional airport to the north-east with domestic flights and some international services; reachable by road from Zhangzhou and useful depending on flight schedules.

Vegetarian options exist but restaurants often use seafood or meat stock; seek out Buddhist or dedicated vegetarian restaurants, order clear stir-fried vegetables, tofu dishes and request no meat/seafood stock when possible.

More limited than vegetarian. Communicate clearly (use translation apps or the phrase “不吃肉，不吃蛋，不吃奶制品” / “no meat, no eggs, no dairy”). Simple rice, vegetable stir-fries and tofu are usually available.

Halal-certified restaurants are not widespread; in urban areas you may find Muslim-friendly eateries or hotpot restaurants. Seafood is usually acceptable, but for halal meat seek out explicitly labeled restaurants or those in larger cities nearby.

Fish, shellfish, soy and peanuts are common ingredients. Carry allergy cards in Chinese and confirm with staff when ordering.