Kaiyuan Monastery

Upon arriving in Quanzhou, make your way to Kaiyuan Temple. This temple is a masterpiece of architecture, with its grand halls and towering pagodas that have withstood the test of time. It's a prime example of outstanding Buddhist architecture in Quanzhou. Here, you can not only admire the magnificent buildings but also indulge in the enchanting melodies of Nanyin. As a world - class intangible cultural heritage, Nanyin is hailed as the "living fossil of Chinese music history". The performance by artists using ancient musical instruments will transport you back thousands of years. In a designated area within Kaiyuan Temple, you can partake in the jinhua (簪花) experience. Professional jinhua masters will carefully select various fresh flowers according to your preferences and skillfully adorn your hair. With this beautiful flower - adorned hairstyle, you can fully immerse yourself in the ancient charm while enjoying Nanyin, and it also makes for wonderful photo - taking opportunities.

Visit to Quanzhou String Puppetry Heritage and Protection Center: Proceed to the Quanzhou String Puppetry Heritage and Protection Center near Qingjing Mosque. String puppetry, another world - class intangible cultural heritage, presents a spectacular show. Watch as the puppets come to life under the deft hands of the artists, demonstrating the charm of intangible heritage in every gesture. After the show, if available, you can try your hand at operating the puppets, adding a fun and interactive element to your experience.

Then, take a leisurely stroll along West Street. As the earliest developed street in Quanzhou, it is lined with numerous historical buildings that have retained their original appearance. While savoring local delicacies, keep an eye out for traditional handicraft stores. For instance, there are Quanzhou lantern - making stores. Quanzhou lanterns, a national - level intangible cultural heritage, are exquisitely designed with intricate craftsmanship. Admire the ingenuity of the craftsmen. With the jinhua on your head, you'll be a unique sight as you walk along this ancient street.

Visit to Quanzhou Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum: Head to the Quanzhou Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum. This museum houses over 650 intangible heritage items and exhibits, covering 5 world - class intangible heritage items and 36 national - level intangible heritage items. Here, you can systematically explore the rich intangible cultural heritage of Quanzhou, ranging from Nanyin and string puppetry to Quanzhou woodcarving and Dehua porcelain firing techniques. Through physical displays and multimedia presentations, you can delve deep into the stories and inheritance processes behind each intangible heritage. Before leaving, don't forget to tidy up your jinhua, and set off on this intangible heritage exploration journey with your beautiful flower - adorned look.

Visit to Wudian City Traditional Cultural Tourism Area: Go to Wudian City Traditional Cultural Tourism Area. It is a veritable showcase of Minnan architecture, featuring red - brick houses with curved eaves that typify the unique architectural style of the region. Here, you can often enjoy Nanyin performances in the ancient houses. Find a seat, soak in the ancient - style atmosphere, and lose yourself in the melodious Nanyin tunes.

Explore Intangible Heritage Workshops: Meanwhile, visit various intangible heritage workshops in the area. For example, at the Hui'an stone - carving workshops, observe how craftsmen transform ordinary stones into exquisite artworks, experiencing the unique allure of the national - level intangible heritage of Hui'an stone - carving. Taste Minnan Special Snacks and Learn about Jinhua Culture: You can also sample Minnan special snacks like tusundae. The production techniques of many of these snacks are also part of the intangible cultural heritage. In Wudian City, there are several jinhua display points. You can further explore jinhua culture here, and even change to different styles of jinhua to better blend in with the Minnan - style ancient house environment.