Published on
November 21, 2025
South Korea, Japan, and Singapore Drive Strong Tourism Growth to Quanzhou, China’s UNESCO Heritage Gem — the ancient port city of Quanzhou in Fujian Province is witnessing a remarkable surge in international visitors from these key Asian markets, fueled by its new World Heritage status and China’s expanding visa‑free transit programmes. In the first half of 2025, the city recorded approximately 403,900 inbound tourists—a nearly 95.5% increase year‑on‑year—underlining its transformation into a global cultural‑tourism hotspot.
South Korea, Japan, and Singapore Drive Strong Tourism Growth to Quanzhou, China’s UNESCO Heritage Gem
Quanzhou, an ancient port city in China’s Fujian province, is experiencing a remarkable tourism boom, driven largely by international visitors from South Korea, Japan, and Singapore. Recognized for its UNESCO World Heritage status, the city is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to explore China’s rich cultural history. As a gateway to China’s Maritime Silk Road, Quanzhou offers a unique blend of ancient architecture, vibrant local culture, and world-class hospitality. This surge in international interest is not only reshaping the city’s tourism landscape but also benefiting the airline and hospitality industries, making it an exciting time for travelers and industry players alike.
Why Quanzhou Is Gaining Popularity Among Travelers from South Korea, Japan, and Singapore
Quanzhou’s appeal to tourists from South Korea, Japan, and Singapore lies in its deep historical significance and growing reputation as a cultural hub. With its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city now draws travelers who are eager to explore its ancient temples, beautiful architecture, and rich maritime history. The city’s key attractions, such as the Kaiyuan Temple and Qingjing Mosque, are emblematic of the diverse cultures that influenced Quanzhou during its time as a major port on the Maritime Silk Road.
For South Korean and Japanese travelers, Quanzhou offers a close connection to their own historical maritime exchanges with China. Singaporeans, on the other hand, are drawn to Quanzhou’s significance in the broader Southeast Asian context, where Chinese and Southeast Asian cultures have intertwined for centuries. This cultural synergy, combined with Quanzhou’s growing international recognition, makes it an attractive destination for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences.
Flight Routes and Airlines Supporting Quanzhou’s Tourism Growth
As Quanzhou’s tourism industry flourishes, airlines are expanding their routes to accommodate the growing number of international visitors. The rise in flight availability from key Asian markets like South Korea, Japan, and Singapore has played a crucial role in fueling the influx of tourists to the city. Major airlines, such as Korean Air, Japan Airlines (JAL), Singapore Airlines, and China’s own Air China, have responded by increasing their flight frequencies to nearby cities, with convenient connections to Quanzhou.
For travelers flying to Quanzhou from South Korea, direct flights from Seoul’s Incheon International Airport (ICN) to Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN), the nearest major airport to Quanzhou, are available. From Xiamen, travelers can take a short domestic flight or utilize ground transportation to reach Quanzhou. Korean Air offers daily flights from Seoul to Xiamen, making the journey to Quanzhou more accessible than ever.
Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways (ANA) also serve Quanzhou’s international tourism growth by providing direct flights from Tokyo (NRT) and Osaka (KIX) to Xiamen. These airlines offer comfortable, quick connections for Japanese tourists looking to visit Quanzhou’s historical attractions.
Singapore Airlines, known for its premium service, operates multiple flights per week from Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) to Xiamen, providing Singaporean travelers with convenient access to Quanzhou. This expansion of flight routes by leading Asian airlines reflects the growing demand for travel to Quanzhou and is a sign of the city’s rising prominence on the global tourism map.
For travelers flying from further destinations, there are connecting flights via major hubs such as Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), offering additional flexibility for international tourists looking to explore Quanzhou.
The Hospitality Boom in Quanzhou
Quanzhou’s growing appeal has had a significant impact on its hospitality industry. With the influx of international tourists, the demand for high-quality hotels and accommodations has surged. Major hotel chains, both international and domestic, are expanding their presence in Quanzhou to cater to this growing market. International hotel brands such as Marriott, Hilton, and InterContinental are opening new properties in and around the city, offering tourists world-class amenities while allowing them to experience the local culture.
The opening of luxury hotels is not the only change in Quanzhou’s hospitality scene. Boutique hotels, guesthouses, and culturally themed accommodations are also flourishing, providing travelers with a more personalized and authentic experience. These types of accommodations are designed to reflect the city’s rich heritage, with traditional architecture, locally sourced materials, and decor that showcases Quanzhou’s history as a thriving port city.
The city’s hospitality sector has also seen a rise in the number of locally owned businesses catering to both international and domestic visitors. From family-run guesthouses to traditional tea houses, these establishments are giving visitors a taste of Quanzhou’s unique cultural offerings while supporting the local economy.
For travelers seeking convenience and comfort, Quanzhou now offers a range of accommodations, from luxury five-star hotels to charming boutique stays. Many of these hotels offer guided tours to local heritage sites, giving guests an enriching cultural experience during their stay.
Travel Tips for Tourists Visiting Quanzhou
As Quanzhou continues to gain popularity as a tourist destination, there are a few important travel tips to keep in mind for those planning to visit this UNESCO World Heritage gem.
Visa and Entry Requirements: For tourists visiting Quanzhou, a valid Chinese visa is required unless traveling under specific visa-free transit policies. Many international travelers, particularly those from countries with strong diplomatic ties to China, may be eligible for a visa-on-arrival or visa-free entry for short stays. However, travelers should always check with their local Chinese consulate or embassy for up-to-date visa information before their trip.Best Time to Visit Quanzhou: The best time to visit Quanzhou is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer months can be hot and humid, while winter temperatures tend to be cool but not freezing. Avoiding the peak travel seasons, such as Chinese New Year and Golden Week (October), can also help tourists avoid large crowds and high hotel prices.Getting Around Quanzhou: Quanzhou is a relatively small city, and most of its major attractions are within easy reach. Public transportation is available, including buses and taxis, but many tourists find it convenient to hire a local guide or rent a bicycle to explore the city. For those traveling from Xiamen to Quanzhou, a short train or bus ride is a popular option, and the journey typically takes around 90 minutes.What to Pack: When traveling to Quanzhou, it’s important to pack comfortable walking shoes, as the city’s attractions, such as the Kaiyuan Temple and Qingjing Mosque, often require walking along cobbled streets and up stairs. Light, breathable clothing is ideal during the warmer months, while a light jacket or sweater is recommended for cooler evenings.Currency and Payment: The local currency in Quanzhou is the Chinese yuan (CNY), and while many businesses in the city accept credit cards, it’s a good idea to carry cash for smaller purchases. Mobile payment platforms like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in China, so travelers may want to download these apps before arriving.Local Cuisine: Quanzhou is renowned for its unique Fujianese cuisine, which blends coastal and inland flavors. Must-try dishes include seafood, rice noodles, and the famous “Fujian-style” dumplings. Local restaurants and street vendors offer a chance to sample authentic flavors, so food enthusiasts should be sure to explore the city’s culinary offerings.Cultural Etiquette: When visiting cultural sites in Quanzhou, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting temples and mosques, and be mindful of local customs during religious ceremonies. Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases will also go a long way in making your visit more enjoyable.
How Airlines and Hotels Are Supporting Quanzhou’s Tourism Growth
The growing interest in Quanzhou as a tourism destination is not only benefiting the city’s attractions but also providing a significant boost to the airline and hospitality industries. Airlines are increasing their flight frequencies to Xiamen, which serves as the primary gateway for international travelers to Quanzhou. This expansion is allowing tourists from key markets such as South Korea, Japan, and Singapore to travel to Quanzhou with ease and comfort.
For example, Korean Air, Japan Airlines, and Singapore Airlines have all ramped up their services to Xiamen, recognizing the increasing demand from travelers eager to visit Quanzhou’s cultural sites. These airlines are offering competitive fares, increased flight frequencies, and premium services to attract international visitors. The expansion of flight routes reflects the broader trend of increasing regional connectivity in Asia and demonstrates how airlines are responding to the growing tourism industry in China.
On the hospitality side, global hotel chains are opening new properties in Quanzhou to accommodate the rising number of international visitors. These hotels offer top-notch amenities, including spacious rooms, high-speed internet, and modern dining options. Additionally, boutique hotels and guesthouses are popping up throughout the city, providing visitors with more diverse and affordable accommodation options. Whether travelers are looking for luxury or a more authentic experience, Quanzhou’s hospitality industry is evolving to meet their needs.
South Korea, Japan, and Singapore drive strong tourism growth to Quanzhou, China’s UNESCO Heritage gem, as the city’s rich cultural history captivates global travelers. With flights soaring and hospitality booming, Quanzhou is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for cultural explorers.
Wrapping Up
Quanzhou’s rise as a UNESCO World Heritage destination is reshaping the tourism landscape in China, attracting a new wave of international visitors. With strong demand from South Korea, Japan, and Singapore, the city is becoming a vibrant hub for travelers seeking cultural immersion, historical exploration, and authentic experiences. The expansion of flight routes and the growth of the hospitality industry are ensuring that visitors have easy access to this hidden gem. As Quanzhou continues to grow in prominence, travelers can look forward to a destination that blends rich history with modern comforts, making it a must-visit spot on the global travel map.
