At the southern tip of the Chongwu peninsula in Fujian province, the ancient fortified city of Chongwu preserves one of China's finest ensembles of preserved ramparts. Facing the Taiwan Strait, this nationally heritage-listed site combines Ming dynasty military architecture, a living stone-carving tradition and the singular culture of Hui'an women. It can be visited from Quanzhou, about thirty kilometers to the east.

Why Visit Chongwu

Chongwu stands out for a rare combination along China's coast: granite ramparts built in 1387 still standing, a 9-hectare stone sculpture park that continues an active craft tradition, and a Hui'an community renowned for its traditional costumes. The site appeals equally to travelers interested in military history, ethnography, or the southern Fujian coastal landscape.

• One of seven major historic fortified complexes in China, and the best preserved on the coast.
• A living heritage: approximately 300 stone workshops still operate in the town and surrounding areas.
• Local culture visible daily through the clothing and practices of Hui'an women.

History of the Ramparts

During the Song dynasty, Chongwu was already a military outpost, then known as Xunjian Zai, where approximately 1,000 soldiers were stationed at strategic points to guard the coast. It was under the Ming dynasty, however, that the site took on its present character.

In 1387, the ramparts were built in granite to counter raids by Japanese pirates (wokou) who ravaged the Fujian coast. The T-shaped layout adapts to the peninsula's topography and the defense of a fishing port. Under the Qing, the fortress retained its military role while becoming an active fishing port on the Taiwan Strait.

Now designated a site of national heritage conservation, the ancient town is the subject of a provincial program for tourism and heritage development.

What to See on Site

The Granite Ramparts

The enclosing wall measures more than 2.5 km in length and approximately 7 m in height. Built from blocks of granite fitted without mortar, it traces a T-shaped plan that follows the peninsula's relief. You can walk along the rampart wall for much of the route, pass through several monumental gates and observe watchtowers oriented toward the sea. It is the central element of the visit and offers a clear insight into coastal defense under the Ming.

The Stone Sculpture Park

Adjacent to the ramparts, a 9-hectare sculpture park brings together approximately 500 works carved from local stone. You'll encounter Buddha figures, Arhats, the goddess of the sea Mazu, highly revered in Fujian, as well as portraits of modern historical figures, including Mao Zedong. The ensemble functions as an open-air museum and testifies to the skill of local workshops: Chongwu supplies carved stone to many cities in Fujian.

Hui'an Women

Hui'an women, belonging to the Han ethnic group, have preserved a recognizable traditional costume: short jacket, wide trousers, floral-patterned scarf and conical hat. This garment, adapted to work by the sea and on stone-working sites, is still visible in daily life in surrounding villages. Hui'an culture, transmitted by women, is an integral part of the peninsula's identity.

The Coast and Beaches

At the foot of the ramparts, the coast alternates between sandy beaches, reefs and viewpoints over the Taiwan Strait. The walk along the wall on the seaward side allows you to easily combine the heritage visit with a seaside break.

Practical Information

• Duration of visit: allow 2 to 3 hours for the ramparts and sculpture park, half a day if you add the beaches.
• Admission: moderate entry fee, combined ticket possible with the sculpture park.
• What to bring: comfortable shoes for walking the rampart wall, sun protection and water, as shade is rare on the ramparts.

When to Visit Chongwu

The climate of southern Fujian is subtropical and humid. The most pleasant periods are spring (March-May) and autumn (October-November), when temperatures remain mild and humidity manageable. Summer is hot, sticky and exposed to typhoons between July and September. Winter remains feasible but windy by the coast.

How to Get There

Chongwu is reached from Quanzhou, about 30 km to the east. Regular coaches depart from Quanzhou bus station and serve the ancient town in about an hour. From Xiamen, allow approximately two hours by road via Quanzhou. Quanzhou's high-speed railway station is connected to Xiamen, Fuzhou and the rest of the coastal network.

To Combine in the Region

A visit to Chongwu naturally extends to Quanzhou, a former major port on the maritime Silk Road, whose temples and old town are UNESCO-listed. Craft enthusiasts can extend the experience at the Baigongfang Crafts Museum.

Plan Your Trip

Chongwu Ancient Town fits easily into an itinerary through southern Fujian, between Xiamen, Quanzhou and the Hakka Tulou. To build a tailor-made trip combining heritage, culture and coastline, explore our China journeys.