Jinjiang

Jinjiang (晋江; Tsìn-kang in Minnan, Jìnjiāng in Mandarin) is a mainly industrial city just across the river from Quanzhou in Fujian. Administratively, it is a county-level city in Quanzhou Prefecture, but for practical purposes it can be thought of as a suburb of Quanzhou. Population was a bit over two million as of the 2020 census.

Understand

Jinjiang
Climate chart (explanation)
J F M A M J J A S O N D       0.7     16 10       0.7     17 11       0.7     20 14       2.4     25 18       2.6     28 22       3.1     31 25       3.2     33 26       2.9     33 26       2.9     31 24       1.1     28 21       0.8     23 16       0.8     18 12 Average max. and min. temperatures in °F Precipitation+Snow totals in inches
Metric conversion J F M A M J J A S O N D       17     −9 −12       19     −8 −12       17     −7 −10       61     −4 −8       65     −2 −6       79     −1 −4       81     1 −3       74     1 −3       73     −1 −4       28     −2 −6       20     −5 −9       20     −8 −11 Average max. and min. temperatures in °C Precipitation+Snow totals in mm

History

Jinjiang has a history dating back over 1,300 years. It was established during the Tang Dynasty and developed as a significant port in the Song and Yuan Dynasties, playing a role in trade along the Maritime Silk Road. Known for its cultural heritage and thriving modern industries, Jinjiang is a blend of historical significance and economic vitality.

Climate

Jinjiang experiences a subtropical monsoon climate, similar to nearby cities like Quanzhou and Xiamen. Compared to northern Fujian cities, Jinjiang's climate is milder and more humid throughout the year. Its weather is primarily influenced by monsoons, with hot, humid summers and mild, wet winters. Summers in Jinjiang are typically warmer than in Xiamen but slightly cooler than in Quanzhou. The city experiences high humidity during summer, with levels often exceeding 80%, making the heat feel more intense. Winters are relatively mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing, though occasional cold snaps can occur.

The annual rainfall in Jinjiang ranges from 1,200 to 1,800 mm, with most precipitation occurring during the rainy season from April to June and in typhoon months from July to September. The city is prone to heavy rains during typhoons but has implemented effective drainage systems to mitigate flooding risks.

Get in

By plane

• 1 Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport (泉州晋江国际机场 JJN  ^IATA). Jinjiang is home to the main airport serving Quanzhou. However, it is a fairly minor airport; there are flights to Hong Kong and some mainland cities and some international flights to other Asian cities, but not a large choice of flights.  

The usual way to fly into the region would be via Xiamen or Fuzhou, both of which have larger airports with a broader range of flight choices.

By train

• 2 Jinjiang railway station. Jinjiang is served by Fujian's coastal high-speed railway, with frequent service to points along the Fuzhou-Xiamen axis. Some trains continue north (to Hangzhou and Shanghai, or to the interior of China), or south (to Shenzhen).  

By bus

From Quanzhou, you can reach Jinjiang by city bus (801 and 802 are two of the numbers), or by taxi.

To get there by bus from Xiamen, take a Quanzhou bus and get off when it passes through Jinjiang.

Get around

Shared Bicycles

Shared bicycles

In Jinjiang, cycling is an excellent way to explore the city. Several shared bicycle services, including "Mobike" and "Hello Bike," allow visitors to rent bicycles through a mobile app. This convenient and eco-friendly option makes it easy to

City Sightseeing Bus

Jinjiang’s city sightseeing bus operates year-round, with schedules and routes adjusted seasonally. The bus typically stops at major attractions such as the Wudianshi Traditional Street, Jinjiang Museum, and Qingyang Temple. Several routes are available, including one that highlights the city’s cultural landmarks and another focusing on scenic natural areas. Visitors can board at designated stops, and advance reservations are recommended through the official website or phone.

Taking a Taxi

In Jinjiang, taxis are a common and convenient mode of transport. The base fare for regular taxis starts at approximately ¥10-15 (RMB), with additional charges depending on distance and time. Taxi stations are usually located near major transport hubs, shopping centers, and tourist attractions, ensuring easy access for visitors.

See

Prophet Mani, pretending to be a Buddha at Cao'an Temple

• 1 Cao'an Temple (草庵寺). The world's only surviving Manichean temple is on Huabiao Mountain in Jinjiang. (updated Apr 2018)

• 2 Anping Bridge (安平桥) (Between Jinjiang's Anhai Town and the neighboring Shuitou Town.). One of the ancient bridges on the old coastal road. Well restored. Free. (updated Apr 2018)
• 3 Jinjiang Museum (晋江博物馆), 382 Shiji Avenue (世纪大道382号) (Bus routes K902, 3, 9, 16, 29, 31, 33, 35, and 45), ☏ +86 595 85681046. 09:00-11:30, 14:30-17:00 (October to May), 09:00-11:30, 15:00-17:30 (June to September), closed on Mondays. Free. (updated Sep 2019)
• 4 Wudianshi Traditional Street Blocks (五店市传统街区), Meiyuan Road, Meiling Subdistrict (梅岭街道梅园路) (Bus routes 4, 6, 7, 11, 17, 18, 22, 35, 45), ☏ +86 595 36771558. Open all day. The heart of old Jinjiang, with many well-preserved historical buildings. Entry to the general area is free. (updated Sep 2019)
• 5 Longshan Temple (龙山寺，Longshan Temple), No. 242, Hai Bazhong Road (中国泉州市晋江市海八中路242号), ☏ +86 595 579 5035. free. (updated Sep 2023)
• 6 Sanli Street (三里街), East of Anpingqiao Scenic Spot (安平桥景区东侧) (bus no.3). free. (updated Sep 2023)

Do

Festivals

• Jinjiang Temple Fair (晋江庙会)：The temple fairs in Jinjiang are an integral part of the local cultural heritage, especially during major festivals like the Lantern Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival. These fairs combine religious offerings, traditional performances, and festive activities. Visitors can experience "dragon and lion dances," "puppet shows," and "folk operas," creating a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere. The fairs also serve as an opportunity for locals to pay homage to their deities, express gratitude, and pray for blessings, all while preserving and passing on Jinjiang's rich traditions.

• Jinjiang Lotus Festival (晋江荷花节)：Every summer, Jinjiang celebrates the Lotus Festival, highlighting the beauty of blooming lotus flowers in scenic areas such as Longshan Park and surrounding wetlands. The festival features guided lotus-viewing tours, cultural performances, and photography contests. Visitors can also participate in activities like painting workshops inspired by the lotus and enjoy local delicacies made with lotus seeds and roots. This festival blends nature, art, and local culinary culture, offering a peaceful retreat for residents and visitors alike.

• Jinjiang Southern Fujian Culture Festival (晋江闽南文化节)：Jinjiang‘s Southern Fujian Culture Festival celebrates the region’s unique Minnan heritage, with events showcasing traditional music, dance, and handicrafts. The festival often includes activities such as "Nanyin" music performances, martial arts displays, and showcases of traditional Minnan architecture. Visitors can also enjoy local foods like peanut soup, oyster omelets, and other famous Minnan dishes. This festival is a vibrant tribute to Jinjiang’s cultural roots and its modern-day dynamism.

Buy

Earthworm Jelly

Earthworm Jelly: A special snack made from sandworms, suitable for tourists who like to try new foods.

Peanut candy and rice candy: handmade traditional southern Fujian snacks, sweet, crispy and fragrant, a good choice for travel souvenirs.

Southern Fujian Oolong Tea: Jinjiang has a profound tea culture. You can buy high-quality oolong tea from Fujian, such as Tieguanyin and Dahongpao, which have a rich aroma and a long-lasting sweetness.

Eat

There are many recommended restaurants in Jinjiang, which combine southern Fujian characteristics, seafood and innovative cuisine. The following are some recommended restaurants with rich types and good reputations.

• Seafood restaurant: Hongxing Seafood Restaurant. A popular seafood restaurant with fresh ingredients, various cooking methods and moderate prices. Recommended dishes: Steamed scallops with garlic sauce, salt and pepper mantis shrimp, fish ball soup.You can get to Hongxing Seafood Restaurant by taking a taxi or using a navigation app. Most local taxi drivers know the location of this restaurant, and you can also ask the driver to take you to the seafood dining area in Jinjiang city.
• Vegetarian and health-preserving restaurant: Qingxin Vegetarian Restaurant. Suitable for vegetarian lovers, it mainly serves southern Fujian vegetarian dishes, which are light and healthy. Recommended dishes: vegetarian fish ball soup, Luohan vegetarian, and mushroom stewed noodles.
• Innovative cuisine restaurant: Jinpinhui. This restaurant combines the tradition of southern Fujian with modern innovation, presenting local ingredients in a novel way. Recommended dishes: Braised pig's trotters with red yeast rice, chicken wings stuffed with longan, and salt-baked nine-segment prawns.

Drink

In Jinjiang, Fujian Province, bar culture is gradually emerging. Although it is not as lively as in first-tier cities, there are some bars worth recommending, which are suitable for relaxing, gathering and enjoying nightlife.

• City Bar：Located in the city center of Jinjiang, On Chaoyang Road.City Bar offers a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for gatherings with friends. The bar has a stylish and minimalist décor, with comfortable seating and a spacious layout. It offers a variety of imported beers and classic cocktails.
• Jazz Bar：This bar features a jazz music theme and a retro-inspired interior. Live jazz performances are a regular feature here, creating an immersive music experience. The bar offers a wide range of cocktails and drinks.
• Havana Bar：Havana Bar is a Latin-themed bar with a distinctive Caribbean vibe. The décor features tropical elements, and the bar serves a wide range of beers, along with imported drinks and cocktails.

Go next

Quanzhou: Located to the southeast of Jinjiang, Quanzhou is a city with a rich history and vibrant culture. As the starting point of the ancient Maritime Silk Road, it is known for its historical landmarks such as the Kaiyuan Temple, the Qingjing Mosque, and the famous Luoyang Bridge. Quanzhou also offers beautiful coastal scenery and is a great place to explore traditional crafts, local cuisine, and the city’s maritime heritage.

Xiamen: Situated to the southeast of Jinjiang, Xiamen is a coastal city famous for its natural beauty, historical sites, and pleasant climate. Attractions include Gulangyu Island, known for its colonial architecture and stunning beaches, and Nanputuo Temple, a well-known Buddhist site. Xiamen is also famous for its tea culture, particularly Tieguanyin, and its seafood, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and exploration.

Fuzhou: Located to the north of Jinjiang, Fuzhou is the capital of Fujian Province and is known for its blend of modernity and ancient history. The city is famous for attractions like the Three Lanes and Seven Alleys, a well-preserved area of traditional architecture, and the Fuzhou National Forest Park, offering scenic views. Fuzhou is also a great place to experience Fujian cuisine, particularly its famous Fuzhou fish balls and various types of tea.

Putian: Situated to the north of Jinjiang, Putian is a historical city with a strong religious and cultural heritage. It is home to famous temples like the Meizhou Island and the Guanyin Statue, attracting many pilgrims each year. Putian is also known for its traditional shoe-making industry, producing some of the finest shoes in China. The city offers a peaceful atmosphere with a mix of religious sites, natural beauty, and local craftsmanship.

Longyan: Located to the west of Jinjiang, Longyan is a scenic city surrounded by mountains and known for its unique Hakka culture. The city features traditional Hakka architecture, including the famous Tulou (earthen buildings), which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Longyan is also home to various natural attractions such as the Wuyi Mountains and the Tengchong Hot Springs, making it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.