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Prefecture-level city in Zhejiang, China
Photo: SCJiang, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Wenzhou (温州 Wēnzhōu) is a city in Zhejiang Province. Wenzhou is not on many China tour itineraries and despite being a Chinese cultural hotspot, it is not the most foreigner friendly of cities (compared with Hangzhou and Ningbo, for example). However, there are plenty of things to do and see should you find yourself with time on your hands in Wenzhou.
Lucheng is the heart of Wenzhou.Lucheng District is home to Jiangxin Island, a serene retreat in the middle of the Oujiang River, offering lush greenery and historical temples. The district also features Impression Nantang, a beautiful cultural park by the river, Wuma Street for shopping and food, and the Wenzhou Zoo for family-friendly attractions.
A mix of residential areas, parks, and industrial zones, Ouhai offers a glimpse of both the old and new sides of Wenzhou.Ouhai is known for its scenic spots like Zeya Scenic Area, Tea Mountain Wumei Garden, and Min Gang Scenic Area. Nature lovers can explore the Xianyan Scenic Area, while Wenzhou Amusement Park provides entertainment for all ages.
An area known for its modern urban landscape, with high-tech parks, vibrant residential areas, and proximity to Wenzhou's airport.Longwan features beautiful landscapes such as Yao Creek Scenic Area and the historic Yongchang Fort.
Dongtou is a coastal paradise with attractions like Guiyan Peak, Wanghai Tower, Xian Die Rock, and Banping Mountain, all offering stunning views of the sea and surrounding landscape. The district is also home to the popular Dashao Ao Beach Resort
Ruian offers rich historical and natural attractions, such as the National Flag Education Museum, Yuhai Tower, and the charming Zhongyi Street. For nature lovers, there are areas like Cheng'ao Ecological Leisure Area and Zhailiao Creek Scenic Area, known for their tranquility and natural beauty.
Yueqing features the world-renowned Yandang Mountain Scenic Area, with its stunning views and ancient cultural heritage. The Zhong Yandang Mountain Scenic Area is perfect for hiking, offering natural beauty and panoramic vistas.
Longgang is known for the scenic Whale Head Scenic Area, where visitors can enjoy hiking, sightseeing, and stunning coastal views. Linjiayuan, with its tranquil environment, offers a peaceful escape from urban life.
Yongjia is home to the picturesque Nanxi River and Sihai Mountain, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism and outdoor activities.
Pingyang offers breathtaking views of Nan Yandang Mountain, Nanji Island, and the ancient Shunxi Ancient Village. It is a great destination for travelers looking for a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage, with historical sites like the First Congress of Zhejiang Province.
Cangnan offers stunning coastal views at the Yucang Mountain Scenic Area and Fishing Bay Scenic Area.
Wencheng is famous for Liang Bowen’s Former Residence, Tongling Mountain, and the scenic Hongfeng Ancient Path, all offering both cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Taishun is home to the famous Taishun Covered Bridge and the scenic Feiyun Lake, which offers peaceful landscapes and recreational activities. Other highlights include the Wuyanling Scenic Area, popular for hiking and breathtaking natural scenery.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
百丈漈; bǎi zhàng jì
洞头列岛
Group of islands off the coast. There is a bunch of "scenic spots"; you have to pay for some. Once there, it is probably easiest to take a taxi to the different scenic spots. Do not believe the touts that approach you when you get off the bus.
东门街; Dōngménjiē
Another pedestrian street, less to see than Wuma Street, but it is longer and has trees on it.
江心屿; Jiāngxīnyǔ
An island in the middle of the Oujiang river that runs through Wenzhou. The island has an old pagoda and a new pagoda, large areas of garden and lakes, a water park and a theme park. The theme park is known for its Ferris wheel which gives great views of both sides of the river and also a death-defying roller coaster. Make sure you buckle up tight.
瓯北; ōuběi
The town on the northern side of Ou River. Close to the dock there are some nice temples at the bottom and top of a hill. There is a pagoda on top of the hill as well.
五马街; Wǔmǎjiē
Wuma Street is Wenzhou's most popular pedestrian street, known for its vibrant atmosphere and local specialties. It’s a great place to enjoy Wenzhou-style snacks, shop for unique items, and experience the city’s culture.
梧田老街; Wútián Lǎojiē
Wutian Old Street combines the charm of Wenzhou's traditional residential architecture with the natural beauty of the Tanghe River. The buildings use local materials, featuring grey bricks, wooden structures, and small black-tile roofs, creating a calm and historic atmosphere. Key architectural elements include wooden balconies, arcade-style facades, and intricate designs.The street is an ideal place for evening strolls, offering scenic views and a rich cultural experience. Visitors can enjoy the ambiance, explore shops, and savor local snacks.
温州年代美术馆
Devoted to contemporary art.
温州博物馆
Wenzhou's main museum.
温州革命历史纪念馆
Focuses on Wenzhou's role in the Communist revolution.
师徒桥, Shitu Bridges
The most famous site in Taishun County. Two covered wooden bridges in close proximity, namely the Dongxi Bridge (东溪桥, lit. 'East River Bridge'), which dates from the MIng Dynasty and the Beijian Bridge (北间桥, lit. 'North Bridge'), which dates from the Qing Dynasty. Collectively the two bridges are known as the Shitu Bridges (师徒桥), which literally means 'Master and Apprentice Bridges' or 'Teacher and Pupil Bridges'. The bridges now form the centrepiece of a park known as the Covered Bridges Cultural Park (廊桥文化园), which also includes several other historical sites, such as Zhang Shiyi's former residence (张十一故居) and the Bao Family Ancestral Hall (包氏宗祠).
江心寺
太平寺; Tàipíngsì
Really new, but very nice temple on the western edge of Wenzhou. The temple actually has a rather long history, having originally been established in 942 AD, but during the Second World War, the temple was converted into an army barracks and later demolished. The current buildings were built between 2003 and 2006.
景山公园, Jīngshān Gōngyuán, lit. Mount Jing Park. Also known as Jingshan Forest Park 景山森林公园
A huge area of trees and greenery. Good place to walk around a get a view of Wenzhou. The mountain overlooks the suburb of Huanglong.
九山公园; Jiǔshāngōngyuán; lit. Nine Mountain Park
A small but picturesque park with a lake and a brand new very high pagoda. Climb to the top for excellent views of the city, which at times can remind one of SimCity. Times refers to the pagoda.
楠溪江风景区; Nánxī Jiāng Fēngīingqū
三垟湿地; Sānyángshīdì
A group of around 136 islands with a shitton of bridges connecting them, as well as a bunch only reached by big concrete canoes. In total it is something like 13 km2. They are building a bunch of gazebos, gardens and new bridges and plan to open the garden as an attraction.
温州动物园
They have penguins, lions and the occasional panda. Good times.
雁荡山; Yàndàngshān
If you are a foreigner, you can wander around the Double Deer Factory. There is some amazing machinery, such as the one that sticks on the labels. You will likely be thrown out after a little while, but it is well worth it. Try not to get your pictures deleted. If you are pretending to write an article about the brewery, then you should have business cards made beforehand.
There are many pool halls dotted around Wenzhou, ranging from free to ¥30/hour.
Taxis are cheap enough that you can just get driven around for an hour or so and not be out too many dough.
As a very Chinese city it is difficult to find English speakers outside of universities, colleges and certain bars. For this reason, Wenzhou is perfect for the home learner to practice their Putonghua out on the street. Watch out for Wenzhounhua though, it sounds incredibly different from any Chinese you have ever heard before.
温州乐园
Financed and constructed by Sino-US joint venture company and designed by an American designer.
Many "Potato-men" stake out good spots around Wenzhou and sell you potatoes.
The generic name for an extensive chain of restaurants offering bargain basement prices for solid meals from the Muslim regions of Western China including Pulled Noodles, Fried Rice, and Curries. There are at least 30 of these restaurants in the city and most have a menu on the wall which is helpful for finger-pointing foreigners. Look for the blue shop header with ‘正宗兰州拉面’ or ‘新疆牛肉拉面’. There is normally a boiling pot in the front of the restaurant and one of the staff pulling the noodles fresh to order... and if you see the guys in their little hats or women with light headdresses, you know you're near one.
温州大酒家瓯菜馆; Wēnzhōu Dà Jiǔjiā Ōucàiguǎn
A true pride of Wenzhou! With over 60 years of history, this iconic restaurant serves up authentic Ou cuisine that brings back childhood memories with every bite. The interior is beautifully decorated with cultural touches, making dining here feel like a trip to a museum—delicious and enriching.Their signature dish, Three-Silk Hammered Fish (三丝敲鱼), is a must-try. Fresh fish fillets are gently hammered until thin and tender, then cooked with shredded carrots, mushrooms, and ham in a light, flavorful broth. The result is a classic Wenzhou dish with silky fish slices and a soup so clean and fragrant, it’s unforgettable.
老北京; Lǎo Běijīng; lit. Old Beijing
A great place offering some northern Chinese classics. They have an English menu as well as a Chinese menu with pictures.
This fancy place is an excellent value if you get the coupons they generously give away. Free coffee are a godsend when combined with 50% off of many delicious meals. The Yu xiang rou si is excellent as well as a beef dish (look for the "牛肉" characters on the coupon).
印度餐厅; Yìndùcāntīng
Fine Indian cuisine, possibly a little too much oil for some palettes, but a popular choice for locals and foreigners alike.
阿拉伯科餐厅; Ālābókēcāntīng
Friendly staff who speak enough English and a menu in passable English, Chinese and (dubious) Arabic. The curry dishes come highly recommended at the expense of the kebab dishes. If you are caught between yogurt and hummus, pick the yogurt every time as the hummus is heavily on the peanut side.
A long established Italian Restaurant with an English menu and at least one member of staff that speaks English for in-house and take-away phone orders. Very solid menu selection and an ambiance that defies its Chinese location.
This Italian style coffee shop is worth a miss. High prices and a bad menu contribute to an uncomfortable experience. The coffee is passable but expensive and do not order the ambiguously named 'Sandwich' for ¥20; it is three slices of salami with mayonnaise slipped into bread rolls normally found amongst aeroplane food. On the upside, there are two rolls. Menu is in Italian and Chinese.
Another Chinese-style fried chicken fast-food restaurant, many of them dot the city.
The Wenzhou answer to the Western pizza chains, Super Bee Pizza has a wide menu although some choices are a little pricey. There are at least five of these restaurants throughout the city. They offer just decent pizza and not the kind of thing that satisfies a seasoned food lover.
There are two Bread Talks in Wenzhou, one in the downtown area near Wuma Street (五马街) and the other is in the European City shopping district (欧洲城). Eat-in or Takeaway, this bakery has a wide variety of hot and cold drinks and has breads that come closest to matching the taste of Western bakeries, including ring doughnuts and odd-looking but good-tasting Pizza.
The number of sushi restaurants in Wenzhou has exploded. There are two on Ladies' Street (女人街) near Wuma Street (五马街) with at least one more in the downtown area, and at least two in Xialv Pu (下吕浦) including the cheapest in Wenzhou (off Wendi Lu 温迪路) starting at just ¥6 a dish. A more high class sushi restaurant can be found on Wangjiang Lu (望江路) down by the river near Xicheng Lu (西城路) which has excellent noodles and sushi at slightly higher prices; at least one staff member also speaks Japanese.
There are three of the burger giant, one on Renmin Lu (人民路) near the KAITAI superstore, one in the European City shopping district (欧洲城) and one at the Olympic Stadium next to Trust Mart.
The most successful western fast food chain in China can be found throughout the city on Renmin Lu (人民路) Nanpu Lu (南浦路), Wuma Street (五马街), Xicheng Lu (西城路), Chezhan Dadao (车站大道) and Xiushan Lu (秀山路). Some are busier and more likely to stare at foreigners. Nanpu is the quietest and will give the least hassle, while Renmin is the biggest and busiest (as it is near the movie theatre) with large numbers of staring eyes watching any foreigners present. Expect differences in the menu - chicken leg or wings but not chicken breast is typical for Chinese chicken places.
There are three Pizza Huts, one on Renmin Lu (人民路), one on Wuma Street (五马街) and another in the European City shopping district (欧洲城).
The one Papa John's in Wenzhou is in the European City shopping district (欧洲城) opposite Pizza Hut. Their cheese sticks are a treat but be warned though they have every dish/pizza/noodles with pork which is frustration for non-pork eaters. There is a children's play area and it is very nice inside. Do not expect traditional American pizza menu!
In Times Square. Get sandwiches and coffee. Wireless internet. One of the few places that you can purchase decaf coffee beans. 2nd floor good place to use your laptop or to meet friends. Food is great! Some staff know English as well.
温州华侨饭店; Wēnzhōu Huáqiáo Fàndiàn
This historic five-star hotel has been welcoming guests since the 1960s and remains a staple in Wenzhou’s hospitality scene. The sprawling layout can feel like a maze, but the attentive service and comfortable accommodations make up for it.The hotel is also famous for its Signature Steamed Jinmen Yellow Croaker (秘汁蒸金门黄鱼). Fresh Jinmen yellow croaker is lightly marinated to remove any fishiness, then steamed with a house-made secret sauce. The dish is finished with a sprinkle of green onions and ginger shreds, balancing the fish's tender texture with a rich, savory flavor that lingers long after the last bite.
鹿港·筵·文化艺术高级餐厅; Lùgǎng·Yán·Wénhuà Yìshù Gāojí Cāntīng
Unlike the traditional rustic charm of other Ou cuisine venues, Model Restaurant redefines Ou cuisine with an innovative twist. Located on the top floor of Lugang Tower, this upscale dining spot presents Wenzhou’s signature dishes with the elegance and refinement of Western fine dining.While modern in presentation, the restaurant stays true to its roots, offering a unique contemporary take on Ou cuisine while remaining a faithful tribute to its rich cultural heritage.
Ou Zhou Cheng
La Luna (Yong nan lu and Jiang bin xi lu) has the best burgers and french fries in Wenzhou. It has a foreign menu including nachos! It also has English-speaking staff. A favorite of the foreign community. Occasional karaoke or live music. Opens at 20:00. La Luna offers a foreign teacher discount card, so bring copy of contract or foreign expert papers. Discount is 50% off drinks and well worth the fee to obtain discount card (which may cost ¥100). Odessa (center of city, downstairs by the bowling alley) has two parts, the restaurant (with foreign menu) and the bar. Foreigner-owned and friendly. Has golf and is beside the archery, billiards, and bowling places.
Great little foreigner friendly bar with a cozy feel to it. Customer controlled music playlist (just choose your song from the communal computer and double click!). ¥10 bottles of Qingdao. Also has burgers, fries and other Western food items.
Eric's No. 1
The original home of the Taiwanese Cowboy, expect rowdy Chinese, migrant worker bar staff, and a wild time, especially if Eric hands you a free bottle of Tequila.
Very popular Chinese bar for DJs and live music. A mug of beer will cost you ¥25, so not too pricey, and there's plenty of people to dance with.
The longtime foreign owner of Blue Shell has sold this bar to a local lady. It's still open, and John's still the bartender. Western style toilet on second floor.
Italian bar in the place of New Age Lounge, great open space. Western style toilet.
Small bar with a very Chinese flavor, now has an open front. Staff and patrons known to be friendly to foreigners.
外滩十八号; Wàitānshíbāhào
It offers free alcohol to foreigners who know the right people. Look for other foreigners once you are inside and join them. Normally kicks off around 10PM.
露娜酒吧
Not to be confused with La Luna near European City, this Chinese bar was renovated and often has live music.
A friendly bar with a barman/manager who can speak English, juggle bottles and eat fire (apparently the 2nd best barman in China, with a certificate to prove it). Upstairs is the Drunkards' Pool, a pool table so wonky you will not even need a drink to see strange things happen on it.
Eric's No. 3
Different from 1 & 2 in that No. 3 is a little quieter, as befits Shuomen Street. The bar area is more comfortable and a back area includes a small indoor stream. Serves Chinese food and steak.
Dark and quiet but with a large group of friends (10+) you can take over the bar and make it your own (should be called Your Bar). The long-haired barman (his name is DaTou, big head) has an intriguing taste in music. Drink prices are really good since they always offer buy 1 get 1 free! Always happy hour which actually makes this one of the cheapest places in town. Great music! There is also a movie room on the top floor with thousands of DVD's. Get some of their delicious coffee in the afternoon and watch a good movie by your choice on the 200" screen on the wall.
This bar/club is sometimes very popular for its lounge layout, a little open space for dancing, and music.
Quiet tea house and bar that also plays host to a popular English Corner (Thursday nights 7PM), even if foreigners are rare in attending. If you go, you will have insta-friends.
Huge club/bar with a wooden palatial decor that boggles the mind. Prices can also boggle the mind.
Large, established club with banging DJs and dancers. Not as pricey or oppressive as .99, a big group of friends could probably chip in to make the evening cost effective with a Whiskey/Ice Tea Combo.
锐思特汽车连锁旅店; Ruìsītèqìchē Liánsuǒlǚdiàn
Offers 300 rooms and suites, all of which have air-conditioner, cable TV with in-house movies, and free high-speed Internet. Some of its amenities include Garden Chinese Restaurant (famous for its bird's nest, shark's fin, and abalone. Also specializes in traditional Ou cuisine), and recreation center (features a sauna, massage center, KTV, disco, mahjong, snooker room, table tennis, gym, tennis court).
锐思特汽车连锁旅店 (温州西山店); Ruìsītèqì Chēliánsuǒlǚdiàn (Wēnzhōu Xīshāndiàn)
The cheapest rooms are quite small.
温州顺生之星酒店; Wēnzhōu Shùnshēngzhīxīng Jiǔdiàn
温州瓯海宾馆; Wēn zhōu Ōuhǎi Bīnguǎn
Three-star hotel with rooms with free internet except for the cheapest rooms. Business center, currency exchange, gift shop, beauty salon, ticket office, karaoke, table tennis and massage available. Chinese restaurant, night club, coffee shop and room service.
温州加州商务宾馆; Wēnzhōu Jiāzhōushāngwù Bīnguǎn
Three-star hotel with large rooms with free internet. Meeting facilities, ticket office and massage available. No restaurant.
On the same road as the airport bus terminal and is close to Xialüpu, a vibrant shopping and bar area.
温州香格里拉大酒店; Wēnzhōu Xiānggélǐlā Dàjiǔdiàn
Rooms with river and mountains with and equipped with free internet, coffee making facilities, minibar, safe and hair dryer. Business center, currency exchange, ticket office, karaoke, fitness, tennis, indoor swimming pool and massage available. Chinese and Western restaurants.
Ex Palme d'Or Hotel offers 110 elegant rooms, which are good for two guests, all have a private shower, satellite TV, mini-bar, IDD phone, and free Internet access. A hair dyer, safe, iron with board, electric kettle, and sofa are also provided. This five-star European-style hotel is 35 minutes from the Wenzhou Yongqiao Airport and 15 minutes away from the railway and coach stations.
奥林匹克大酒店; Àolínpǐkè Dàjiǔdiàn
Four-star hotel with health club, restaurant and conference facilities.
王朝大酒店; Wángcháo Dàjiǔdiàn
Extensive conferencing facilities, but not highly regarded rooms.
You can get all kinds of cheap shoes and clothing near the train station, bring a Chinese person and you get better prices.
时代广场; Shídàiguǎngchǎng
Everything in there is too expensive to buy, but it has clean, shiny floors excellent for sliding on.
银泰百货; Yintaibaihuo
There are many boutiques selling expensive stuff. Furthermore, there is a Foodcourt at the top floor as well as an Arcade.
温州印象城; Wēnzhōu Yìnxiàngchéng
Opened on November 26, 2021, Wenzhou InCity MEGA is a large-scale commercial complex that stands out for its integration with the Central Green Axis and Century Park. It offers a unique street-style shopping experience, combining shopping, dining, entertainment, and leisure, making it a key destination for modern urban consumption and a highlight of Wenzhou's efforts to become a regional consumer hub.
温州华润万象城; Wēnzhōu Huárùn Wànxiàngchéng
Wenzhou MixC Mall is the city’s third urban complex, featuring numerous international brands and popular dining options. It offers a modern shopping, dining, and entertainment experience, making it a prime destination for locals and visitors looking for premium leisure and retail services.
温州吾悦广场; Wēnzhōu Wúyuè Guǎngchǎng
Wenzhou Wuyue Plaza is a modern commercial complex, combining shopping, dining, and entertainment under one roof. It offers a convenient and dynamic experience for both locals and visitors, making it a popular spot in Longwan District.
电脑广场
The computer market is three floors of technology, including desktops, laptops, notebooks, external hard drives, webcams, etc. For the best deals, make a Chinese friend before you go.
If you require suitcases or other baggage, there are many shops on the west side of this street specialising in Luggage.
新华书店
Wenzhou does not have a store for foreign language books. However you will find some classics as well as plenty of Chinese literature, dictionaries and teaching resources. The Book City also includes a music department, a stationery department and an arts department.
Renmin Road store
Watson's is where you can find toiletry essentials such as Shower gel (cheaper than smaller stores), sanitary towels, razors, mouthwash and even antiperspirant if you look hard enough.
Times Square Store
As above, but closer to Xialvpu (下吕浦).
If you are a musician in Wenzhou and struggling to find a music shop, have no fear as there are plenty around the city. The biggest (and easiest to find) is this one on Renmin Road and stocks guitars, keyboards, drums, and plenty more.
中国银行
Probably the most reliable place to buy currency is this large, official currency exchange. If you fancy taking a risk, you can seek a better rate with the money changers outside the bank.
By train
Wenzhou railway Station (温州站; Wēnzhōuzhàn) serves most cities throughout China, although because of Wenzhou's mountains, train journeys are sometimes much longer than their bus counterparts.
By bus
Wenzhou's bus stations serve a variety of locations around the country.
By bus
5 within the city and can be very useful once you figure what number goes where. Useful buses include the 81 that goes between the old train station and the new south train station (¥2).
By taxi
Taxis are ¥11 for the first 4 km and ¥1 for each 500 m thereafter (after 11:30PM prices rise to ¥12+2 (gas charge) for the first 4 km and ¥1 for each 500 m thereafter).
By ferry
Although one ferry serves the tourist island of Jiangxin, there are other ferries that serve destinations up and down the Ouhai River (瓯海 ōuhǎi) such as the suburb of Oubei (瓯北 ōuběi)
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Wenzhou (Longwan) · International · WNZ
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