Located in the heart of Fuzhou, Fujian Province, the historic district of Three Lanes and Seven Alleys (Sanfang Qixiang) traces its origins to the Jin Dynasty, flourished during the Tang and Song Dynasties, and reached its peak in the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Covering approximately 40 hectares, this district is celebrated as a "living fossil of the traditional Chinese neighborhood system", "a museum of Ming and Qing architecture", and "home to modern Chinese celebrities". It is often said that the district represents "Three Lanes and Seven Alleys on the map, half of modern Chinese history in reality."

A Bird’s-Eye View of the District

The district is centered on Nanhou Street, with ten parallel lanes stretching east and west. On the west side, from north to south, are Yijin Lane, Wenru Lane, and Guanglu Lane. On the east side, from north to south, are Yangqiao Lane, Langguan Lane, Ta Lane, Huang Lane, Anmin Lane, Gong Lane, and Jibi Lane. The alleyways are interconnected, forming a grid-like layout where lanes and alleys weave seamlessly into one another.

Nanhou Street Archway

The district preserves 159 well-maintained Ming and Qing buildings, including 15 nationally protected heritage sites. Highlights include:

Waterside Pavilion Stage

Xiao Huang Lou (little Yellow Tower)

Three Lanes and Seven Alleys has been a fertile ground for talent, producing over 400 historical figures, with more than 150 having significant influence on modern Chinese history. Renowned personalities include Lin Zexu, Shen Baozhen, Yan Fu, Lin Juemin, and Bing Xin.

Lin Juemin Former Residences & Bing Xin Former Residences

Yan Fu Former Residence

During Chinese New Year, the district comes alive with crowds of visitors on the bluestone streets. Traditional celebrations such as dragon and lion dances are staged alongside the charm of intangible cultural heritage, creating a festive atmosphere where history and modern celebrations intertwine, making it a must-visit spot for both tourists and locals seeking the holiday spirit.

Dragon Dance Performance during Chinese New Year

Dragon Dance Performance during Chinese New Year

The Love Tree

A suggested itinerary to explore the highlights of the district:

Lin Juemin Former Residences & Bing Xin Former Residences → Yan Fu Former Residence → Fujian Folk Customs Museum → Fujian-Taiwan Historical & Cultural Research Institute → Yonghe Fish Balls → Tongli Rouyan → Xiao Huang Lou → Guo Baiyin Former Residence → Waterside Pavilion Stage → Fujian Intangible Cultural Heritage Expo Park → Jinyu Lane → "Shanhai Fucuo" Guochao Lifestyle Gallery → Gucuo Fuli Cultural & Creative Research Institute → Fuzhou Maritime Silk Road Exhibition Hall → The Love Tree → Lin Congyi Former Residence (City Guest Hall) → Fujian Overseas Chinese Museum → "Dreaming of Fuzhou" Immersive Performance