Gulangyu Island in Xiamen. [Photo provided to gofujian.com.cn]

The "Experiencing Happiness in China: Fujian Tour" delegation visited Xiamen and Longyan in Fujian province, experiencing the livable environment and open development of these coastal cities, and appreciating the unique charm of revitalized intangible cultural heritage.

Gulangyu Island exemplifies the harmonious coexistence of world heritage preservation and ecological livability. Caressed by gentle sea breezes and adorned with lush greenery, the island's historic architecture, blending Chinese and Western styles, is set amid thriving woodlands. With over 60 percent vegetation coverage across the island, green has become its most defining color.

Zhongshan Road captures the dynamic interplay between century-old heritage and forward-looking innovation. During the 2026 Spring Festival and Lantern Festival celebrations, the "Cross-Strait Digital-Intelligent Intangible Cultural Heritage Year" took center stage, integrating AR, VR, and embodied intelligence with cross-Strait cultural traditions across more than 140 vibrant performances. 

As a cosmopolitan hub, Zhongshan Road is dedicated to enhancing the visitor experience with thoughtful touches such as multilingual volunteer support and seamless tax-refund services for international travelers — offering a genuine taste of the city's hospitality.

A foreign journalist experiences the intangible cultural heritage item. [Photo provided to gofujian.com.cn]

The delegation visited Longyan's Liancheng county on March 3, experiencing "Luofang ancient running" (a national ICH), wandering through the 800-year-old Peitian town and admiring its exquisite Hakka architecture, and witnessing spectacular "Gutian dragon dance" performances.

Inside the tulou. [Photo provided to gofujian.com.cn]

They then visited Yongding on March 4, a vital hub for traditional Hakka villages and tulou culture. Through immersive site tours and interactive experiences, they gained an understanding of Hakka heritage and rural vitalization.