Back from Xiapu, here's my honest review.

“When clouds disperse and the moon shines bright, who needs embellishment? The sky and sea are naturally clear.” When the March breeze gently blows, Xiapu is like a painter's palette overturned by nature, intoxicatingly beautiful. Located in northeastern Fujian, this coastal town boasts a long, winding coastline, vast tidal flats, and simple fishing villages. It's a paradise for photography enthusiasts and a dream destination that travel lovers shouldn't miss🌈 Preparation - Clothing: The temperature in Xiapu gradually warms up in March, but there's still a temperature difference between day and night. It is recommended to bring light jackets, long-sleeved clothes, and comfortable short sleeves. Also, the UV rays are strong at the seaside, so sun-protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. - Photography equipment: Xiapu's beauty is easily captured in photos. Remember to bring your camera or phone, along with sufficient memory cards and batteries. A tripod is also essential if you want to shoot sunrise, sunset, or long-exposure photos. - Other items: ID card, cash, common medicines (such as cold medicine, stomach medicine, etc.), umbrella or raincoat. Local Transportation - Bus: There are many bus routes in Xiapu County that can reach some major attractions. The fare is generally 1–2 yuan, which is economical, but buses may be infrequent, so pay attention to the operating hours. - Taxi/Ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services are convenient for traveling within the county. When going to some remote scenic spots, you can negotiate the price with the driver in advance. - Car rental: If you are traveling with a larger group and want to explore Xiapu more freely, renting a car and driving yourself is a good option. You can book a car at a local car rental company or through an online platform. Must-See Attractions 1. Beiji Tidal Flats: This is one of the most famous sunrise shooting spots in Xiapu🌅. In the early morning, climb up to the Beiji viewing platform to see the endless tidal flats. Under the sunlight, the textures and light and shadow of the tidal flats change endlessly, and the seaweed cultivation racks are scattered in an orderly manner, forming a beautiful picture. 2. Yangjiaxi: Known as the "Peach Blossom Land of the Sea" and "Little Wuyi of Eastern Fujian." March is springtime, and although the maple leaves of Yangjiaxi are no longer as fiery red as in autumn, the ancient banyan trees form golden beams of light under the sunlight, creating a fairyland-like scene amidst the green mountains and clear waters. Here, you can also see local villagers herding cattle across the river, a scene full of idyllic poetry🐂 3. Dongbi: An excellent location for sunset photography. In the evening, stand by the sea at Dongbi and watch the sun slowly set, its afterglow scattering on the sparkling sea. The reefs, beaches, and distant islands on the shore are all dyed golden, forming a beautiful seaside sunset picture together with the returning fishing boats. 4. Xiaohao Beach: Xiaohao Beach is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. The tidal flats here present different colors under different light and shadow, sometimes golden, sometimes orange-red. The figures of fishermen working on the beach add a touch of life to this beach. Whether it's sunrise or sunset, Xiaohao Beach can bring you a different visual shock. 5. Shajiang S Bay: Overlooking from a high place, the bay of Shajiang Village winds in an S-shape. Bamboo rafts and kelp cultivation racks are neatly arranged in the bay. Under the sunlight, the lines are graceful and rhythmic. During the kelp harvest season, you can also see the busy figures of fishermen, making it a good place to capture the combination of humanity and natural scenery. 6. Huazhu: Huazhu is another great place to watch the sunrise in Xiapu. It offers a wide view, allowing you to take in the sea, islands, fishing villages, and sunrise. In the early morning, when the first ray of sunlight shines on the sea, the whole world is lit up, like a dream. Moreover, the sunrise at Huazhu is often accompanied by a sea of clouds, making you feel like you are in a fairyland☁️ 7. Dajing Beach: Dajing Beach is the largest beach in Xiapu, with fine and soft sand and clear blue water. Walking on the beach, feeling the sea breeze and listening to the sound of the waves is very pleasant. You can also play beach volleyball, surf, and other water activities here, enjoying the fun of the sun and beach🏖️ 8. Lüxia Lighthouse: This white lighthouse stands on the cliffs by the sea, contrasting with the blue sea, making it particularly beautiful. Near the lighthouse, there is also a reef beach, where the rocks of various shapes form a unique landscape under the waves. Here, you can quietly admire the vastness of the sea and feel the charm of nature. Local Cuisine 1. Hutang: A special breakfast in Xiapu, made with rice milk as the base and boiled with various seafood (such as shrimp, shellfish, etc.), pork, mushrooms, and daylily. It has a thick texture and delicious taste. A bowl will warm you up and satisfy your hunger. 2. Seafood Noodles: How can you miss the delicious seafood noodles when you come to Xiapu? The noodles are chewy, the soup is rich, and the seafood inside is freshly caught that day. There are various kinds, including crabs, shrimp, squid, and clams. Every bite is full of the taste of the sea🦀 3. Minnan Paste: Although the name includes "Minnan," it is also very popular in Xiapu. It is made by boiling sweet potato flour with various vegetables, meat, and seafood. It has a soft texture and a mellow taste, and is a nutritious dish. 4. Sansha Minnan Paste: Slightly different from ordinary Minnan paste, Sansha Minnan Paste is made with more seafood and has a more delicate texture and a more delicious taste. It is a delicacy in the hearts of Xiapu people. 5. Xiapu Fish Balls: Xiapu fish balls are made from fresh sea fish. The fish balls have a springy outer layer and a delicious and juicy filling. They are delicious whether boiled in soup or deep-fried, and are one of Xiapu's traditional snacks. 6. Yantian Badu Cockles: Yantian's Badu cockles are a local specialty. This kind of cockle has plump and delicious meat and is rich in nutrients. Badu cockles can be steamed directly after being washed to retain their original flavor, or they can be roasted with minced garlic, vermicelli, and other ingredients, which is equally delicious. Accommodation 1. Xiapu County: There are various accommodation options, from budget hotels to high-end resort hotels. Staying in the county is convenient for transportation, dining, and shopping, suitable for tourists who want to experience city life. 2. Beiji: Close to Beiji Tidal Flats, convenient for shooting sunrise. There are many homestays to choose from, and some homestays also have viewing platforms, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful tidal flat scenery from your bed. 3. Sansha Town: There are many surrounding attractions, such as Dongbi and Xiaohao. There are many hotels and homestays in the town with reasonable prices and close proximity to the seaside. You can also take a walk on the beach at night and feel the sea breeze. Things to Note 1. Tide times: Many attractions in Xiapu are closely related to the tides. Be sure to check the tide times before traveling and choose the right time to go to see the most beautiful scenery. 2. Photography safety: Pay attention to your own safety when shooting at some seaside or high-altitude attractions. Do not risk your safety for the sake of photographic effects. 3. Seafood allergies: If you are allergic to seafood, pay special attention when tasting local cuisine to avoid accidental ingestion that may cause physical discomfort. 4. Environmental protection: The beautiful scenery of Xiapu needs everyone's protection. Do not litter during your trip and keep the scenic area clean. 🌅Xiapu, this charming coastal town, exudes a unique charm in the spring light of March. Whether it's the stunning natural scenery or the mouth-watering cuisine, it's intoxicating and unforgettable. Pack your bags and take a spontaneous trip to encounter the beauty of Xiapu and leave your own unforgettable memories💕