The province of Fujian, in southeastern China, is a mountainous region dominated
by wild rivers and dense forests. The history of isolation from the outside
world has allowed the territory to form a unique culture. Today, after massive
economic development, newly established transportation routes have made this
place much easier for travellers. The routes are far from perfect, but in such
a topographic transport nightmare the authorities here have done well. By plane:
This is still the best means of getting to the province. Major cities of Fujian
like the capital city Fuzhou,
the harbour pearl Xiamen
and the legendary Wuyishan
all have air connection with other cities and regions throughout China. There
are some international flights available. By train:
Ever since the building of the Yingxia Railway (Xiamen--Yingtan) in 1956, Fujian has
established itself as fairly competitive, if a little circuitous, in its rail links.
Today, there are direct trains linking Fuzhou and Xiamen with important cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou. By Bus:
Although the highway system has improved a lot, it is still a bit inconvenient to get into
Fujian by bus because the roads linking the province involve a lot of winding in the
mountainous areas. However, the transportation within the province is a whole lot better,
especially in the eastern coastal areas. Expressways are available between Fuzhou and
Xiamen and other high level highways link other cities of the province. By boat:
Historically, Fujian was the starting point of the "Silk Road on the Sea" and
Fujian people have long been communicating with other parts of the world. Today,
under the severe competition from other means of transportation, it is still
possible to travel to Fujian by boat. Cities like Fuzhou and Xiamen both have
regular boats linking domestic and international destinations, the infrequent
boat from Shanghai, via Xiamen, to Hong Kong is one
of the nicest in the China business. |