Xiapu (Miscellaneous Notes of a 26-Day Trip in Fujian and Guangdong, Part 7)

Farewell to Fuzhou, to see fishing boats singing in the evening.

A few days ago, due to rainy weather, I passed by Xiapu from Taimu Mountain and went directly to Fuzhou. I stayed in Fuzhou for six days, and now I think of returning to Xiapu.

Arrived at Xiapu around noon. The transportation and accommodation facilities here are quite complete.

Xiapu, this small seaside town, owes its fame to the years of continuous efforts by DSLR-wielding uncles (amateur photographers).

Also on Ctrip, I signed up for a half-day and a full-day shared car tour. A small car, departs with just two people, service is standardized, very convenient and cost-effective for tourists.

On the granite, there are seam lines resembling bricks, stretching across several huge boulders. Initially thought they were man-made brick paving lines, but upon closer inspection, they must be naturally formed.

Most are small boats of about ten meters. Chasing the tides, they depart in the evening and return in the morning.

“Go twelve or thirteen nautical miles, fish in nearby waters, after deducting costs, one trip can earn 600-700 yuan.” The fisherman chatted with me while organizing his net.

Why are all boats small?

“The big ones can’t get into the shallow waters; they anchor out at sea.”

Have you been to Diaoyu Islands?

“Of course, but you need a bigger boat.”

The coastal defense garrison against Japanese pirates. The castle overgrown with weeds, the Qianhu garrison of Qi Jiguang from the Ming Dynasty 600 years ago. Pushing aside the thatch and climbing the steps, I saw some graves on the surrounding hills, said to be left by Ming soldiers (authenticity unknown). Reflecting on the past and present, I feel a sense of emotion.