Xichan Temple

Only stayed one night on a layover, definitely want to go back again

Fuzhou in Fujian province is a services hub city (no heavy industry). Chinese tourists are attracted to seaside areas in this province but as yet city tourism is limited for the 'foreign' English-speaking visitor. The Sheraton is on the edge of the city in the conference/ exhibition centre area. It is not close to any attractions, but is in a space that permits a sense of relaxation in this big busy city. Tourism is emerging here. There are no city tour brochures or tour information in the hotel or anywhere else - you need to organise private tours beforehand or do it yourself - staff at reception kindly gave me a map of the city (in Chinese) - together with my own internet information this provided highlights to visit that could be easily reached by taxi ride between 30-60 minutes (pending traffic). The doorman wrote in Chinese the destination and took the registration number of the taxi - they are not expensive - suggest you organise a pick up point and time for the return journey because it is to get a taxi ride back. Highlights are the 'five lanes and seven alleys' an historic area that has upmarket lacquer and art as well as tourist trinkets and all kinds of food. Nearby the white tower and centre park and many local streets to wander. There are two sides to 'Drum Mountain' - on one is the temple which is great on the other tea planation. Fuzhou is famous for fish ball soup (surprise is there us meat in the balls) and light broth noodles as well as fish varieties.