Traveling Through Fujian: Flowers in My Hair, Wind by the Sea

What's traveling through Fujian look like? Some trips aren’t about checking off landmarks—they’re about wandering, breathing, and letting the place slowly unfold around you. That was Fujian for me. I didn’t have a rigid plan—just a heart set on the ocean breeze, quiet temples, and stories waiting in old alleyways. And somehow, I ended up with flowers in my hair, sea salt on my skin, and more memories than I’d expected.

The lighthouse by the seaside under the blue sky stands on the rock, facing the sea breeze. Green trees are scattered around it, presenting a picturesque scene.

Luojia Temple: Peace Between the Sea and Sky

One of the most unforgettable moments came when we visited Luojia Temple in Haikou Town, perched on a hill with the sea stretching endlessly beyond. We didn’t have to take a boat—just a drive and a short walk—but standing there, surrounded by wind and waves, it felt like we were suspended between earth and ocean. The temple was quiet and dignified, with incense curling into the sky. As we wandered its open courtyards, the chanting from inside seemed to echo out over the coastline, bringing a kind of peace I hadn’t known I needed. Time slowed down, and for a little while, everything felt still.

The sea temple - Luojia Temple shines under the sunlight, attracting numerous tourists to visit.

Wearing Flowers: A Gesture So Simple, So Beautiful

In an old alley in Quanzhou, I saw local women laughing as they fixed fresh flowers into each other’s hair. I was just watching, until one of them smiled and asked, "Want one?" Before I knew it, a gardenia was gently tucked behind my ear. It felt both playful and sacred—like I’d been invited into a quiet, living tradition. Later, we took photos under the tiled roofs and faded red walls, the flowers catching the soft light like a secret.

Chongwu: Stone Walls and Salt Air

Chongwu felt like a town built from memory—gray stone houses pressed tightly together, their textures worn smooth by generations of sea wind. As we wandered through the old streets, I ran my fingers along the stone walls and listened to the sea crash just beyond. We climbed onto a cluster of seaside rocks, and when a wave unexpectedly splashed my feet, I couldn’t help laughing out loud. Sometimes, joy comes with wet shoes and windblown hair.

In the blue sky, Chongwu stands out. The words "I ❤️ Chongwu" on the seaside convey the love for this beautiful coastal city.

Fujian Shaolin Temple: Stillness and Strength

Hidden among the trees and mountains, the Fujian Shaolin Temple surprised me with its serenity. The monks moved in silence, their rhythm both soft and powerful. We watched a short martial arts demonstration—swift, grounded, beautiful. It wasn’t flashy or for show; it felt real, disciplined, and deeply peaceful. Walking through the temple grounds, I felt something settle inside me too, like I’d inhaled a little of their calm.

The magnificent buildings of Shaolin Temple, with their red roofs, stand out particularly solemn and majestic against the blue sky. Surrounded by green plants, they add to the tranquility and harmony of the scene.

Golden Coast at Night: Fireworks and Salt Air

On our final night, we went to the Golden Coast. The sky was already dark, but the horizon still glowed faintly blue. We lit small fireworks by the sea, laughing as the sparks danced above the waves. The air smelled of salt and smoke, and for a few brief moments, it felt like we were alone in our own little world. I remember standing still, barefoot in the sand, fireworks reflecting in the water, thinking: this is what freedom feels like.

The fireworks burst on the Golden Coast, illuminating the night sky with a brilliant moment.

What I Took With Me

Fujian isn’t loud about its beauty. It doesn’t demand your attention—it earns it. It’s in the flowers offered without asking, in the silence of a hilltop temple, in the sea wind through ancient towns, and in fireworks shared with friends on a dark, open beach. I went looking for the ocean, and I found a little piece of peace in a place that simply lets you be.