How to get to Longyan

Longyan is a vibrant city in the southwest of Fujian Province in China, attracting travellers with its unique cultural heritage and the famous Tulou earthen fortresses. This region is renowned for its picturesque mountain landscapes, peaceful atmosphere, and rich history. A trip to Longyan offers you an excellent opportunity to touch upon ancient traditions and witness amazing architectural monuments with your own eyes.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach this region is to take a flight to the local Liancheng Airport (LCX). This air hub receives regular flights and serves as the main air gateway for those who wish to be in the centre of events immediately, bypassing long overland journeys.

If a direct flight is unavailable, airports in neighbouring cities located within a radius of 130–150 kilometres serve as excellent alternatives. Travellers often choose to fly into the major transport hub of Xiamen or use the airports of Meizhou and Sanming, which are also well-connected to the region by transport links.

Rail transport is one of the most convenient and popular ways to get to the city. Longyan has a modern railway station that accommodates both regular passenger trains and high-speed trains, connecting the region with the country's key transport hubs.

The route from the city of Xiamen is considered particularly comfortable. Thanks to the high-speed railway, the travel time is only about 1–1.5 hours. This is an excellent option for travellers who want to get from the coast to the picturesque mountain areas quickly and without transfers.

Railway connections are also established with the cities of Meizhou, Sanming, and other provincial centres. Upon arrival at the station, tourists can easily continue their journey by taxi or make use of the developed network of city buses to reach their hotel or attractions.

Bus travel is a great way to enjoy the mountain landscapes of Fujian Province and reach your destination comfortably via modern highways. Regular services depart from coastal Xiamen: the journey of about 160 kilometres usually takes 2.5–3 hours. The route from neighbouring Meizhou is also popular, from where buses cover 140 kilometres in an average of 2 hours.

Another convenient starting point is the city of Sanming, located approximately 200 kilometres to the north; the trip from there lasts about 3 hours. Intercity buses on these routes typically feature comfortable seats and air conditioning, making the journey comfortable. Upon arrival at the Longyan bus station, travellers can easily proceed to the famous Tulou using local transport.

Travelling by car opens up a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the views of Fujian Province at your own pace. One of the most sought-after routes runs from Xiamen: the distance of 161 kilometres can be covered in approximately 2 hours on high-quality expressways. The road from Meizhou is equally convenient, taking about 2.4 hours to cover a distance of 179 kilometres.

Tourists departing from Sanming will have to drive 221 kilometres, which usually takes about 2.7 hours. A journey by taxi or a rented car ensures maximum comfort and flexibility, especially if you are travelling with luggage or as a family, although it will cost more than public transport. Local roads are characterised by good surfaces and clear navigation, making the road trip safe and pleasant.

When planning a visit to Longyan, it is important to consider local specifics to ensure the trip leaves only pleasant impressions. This city in China is hospitable, but it requires a little preparation on the part of the tourist for a comfortable stay.

1. Clothing and Weather: The climate here is humid subtropical. In summer, it is advisable to choose light, modest clothing made of natural fabrics, as it can be very hot. In winter, despite the absence of severe frosts, interiors can be cool due to the lack of central heating, so a warm jacket and sweater are mandatory. Always carry an umbrella or a raincoat.
2. Transport: The most convenient way to get around is by taxi or booking a car via apps (similar to Uber, for example, DiDi). City buses are inexpensive, but navigating routes without knowing the language is difficult. Always carry a hotel card or the name of your destination written in Chinese characters to show the driver.
3. Finances: International Visa or Mastercard cards are rarely accepted, mostly only in luxury hotels. The main payment method is via mobile apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay, to which a foreign card can be linked. Be sure to have a supply of cash yuan for markets and small shops.
4. Health and Safety: Do not drink tap water; use only bottled water. The crime rate is low, but one should keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. It is recommended to bring a first-aid kit with familiar medicines, as finding specific international brands locally can be problematic.
5. Communication: Few people in Longyan speak English, even in the service sector. It is vital to install an offline translator on your smartphone with a photo translation function (for menus and signs) and voice input for communicating with locals.
6. Local Etiquette: Restraint and politeness are appreciated. It is better to hand over money or business cards with two hands as a sign of respect. At the table, do not stick chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice — this is considered a bad omen.
7. What to Avoid: Do not use the services of illegal taxi drivers who intrusively offer rides at the exit of the station or airport — there is a high risk of overpaying. Also, try not to plan trips during national Chinese holidays when all attractions are overcrowded.
8. Logistics Tip: The region's main attractions — the famous round Tulou houses — are not located in the city centre but in remote counties (for example, Yongding). Allocate a full day for visiting them and plan your transfer in advance, as the journey may take 2–3 hours one way.

Following these simple practical recommendations will help you avoid everyday difficulties and focus on exploring the unique culture of the region. Be open to new experiences, and your journey will be easy and exciting.