The Three Lanes and Seven Alleys Scenic Area is located in Gulou District, Fuzhou City, Fujian Province. As a national 5A-level tourist attraction and one of China's Top Ten Historical and Cultural Streets, it covers 38 hectares with three lanes (Yijin Lane, Wenru Lane, Guanglu Lane) and seven alleys (Yangqiao Alley, Langguan Alley, Ta Alley, Huang Alley, Anmin Alley, Gong Alley, Jibi Alley). Preserving over 200 Ming-Qing ancient buildings, it's hailed as "Living Fossil of China's Urban Lane System" and "Museum of Ming-Qing Architecture."
History and Culture
Dating back to the Western Jin Dynasty (1,700+ years ago) and flourishing during Ming-Qing periods, this area housed Fuzhou's elites and literati, producing hundreds of influential figures like Lin Zexu, Yan Fu, Lin Juemin, and Bing Xin. Thus it's said "Three Lanes and Seven Alleys encapsulate half of China's modern history."
As Fuzhou's historical core, it retains a complete "fishbone" street layout and numerous Ming-Qing residences blending Huizhou, northern Fujian, and Western architectural styles. Distinctive saddle-shaped walls and carved windows represent Fuzhou's traditional housing essence.
Designated a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit in 2006 and a Top Chinese Historical-Cultural Street in 2009, it became a 5A-level scenic area in 2021.
Main Attractions
Lin Zexu Memorial Hall
Located in Gong Alley, this former residence of Lin Zexu's second son is now a national protected site. Exhibiting the anti-opium hero's life and deeds, it preserves Lin's calligraphy and memorials to the throne, serving as a key patriotic education base.
Bing Xin's Former Residence
In Yangqiao Alley, this Qing wooden structure was writer Bing Xin's (Xie Wanying) childhood home. Displaying her life, works, and family history, it retains her study room in a tranquil setting.
Yan Fu's Former Residence
Yan Fu's late-life home in Langguan Alley showcases the renowned modern thinker-translator's life, academic achievements, and works - especially materials related to his translation of "Evolution and Ethics," holding significant historical value.
Waterside Theater
Fuzhou's best-preserved Qing water-stage stands centrally in Yijin Lane's pond. This unique three-side waterside structure hosts Min Opera performances during festivals, offering cultural immersion.
Cuisine
Fuzhou Fish Balls
Traditional delicacy of minced fish wrapping pork fillings. The springy balls in clear sweet broth are the area's signature food.
Rouyan (Meat Swallow)
Fuzhou specialty resembling wontons but with paper-thin pork-wrapper skins. Served in broth, they're smooth and uniquely flavorful.
Guobianhu (Pan-Edge Paste)
Classic breakfast of rice-flour sheets cooked with clams and dried shrimp along wok edges. Its creamy texture and savory taste make it locals' favorite.
Buddha Jumps Over the Wall
Fujian's premium dish stewing abalone, sea cucumber, shark fin, etc. with broth and aged wine. This fragrant, nutrient-rich dish is crowned "Top Fujian Cuisine."
Ticket Information
Free entry; some sites charge separately: Lin Zexu Memorial ¥30, Bing Xin Residence ¥15, Yan Fu Residence ¥15, Waterside Theater ¥10. 50% off for seniors over 60/students, free under 1.2m. Open 8:30-17:00 (some areas 24h).
Suggested Itinerary
Recommended half-day route: Enter via Nanhou Street main gate → Lin Zexu Memorial → Waterside Theater → Yan Fu Residence in Langguan Alley → Bing Xin Residence in Yangqiao Alley. Allow 3-4 hours; wear comfortable shoes and sample local snacks en route.
Transportation
- Metro: Fuzhou Metro Line 1 to Dongjiekou Station, Exit D (5-min walk)
- Bus: Routes 1, 5, 18, 22 to Shuangpaoqiao or Dongjiekou stops
- Drive: Nearby parking lots (limited on holidays)
Must-See Attractions
- Lin Zexu Memorial - National hero's museum
- Bing Xin Residence - Celebrated writer's home
- Yan Fu Residence - Modern thinker's residence
- Waterside Theater - Unique Qing water-stage
Travel Tips
- Best seasons: Spring and autumn
- Visit early/late to avoid crowds
- Wear comfortable shoes for uneven flagstones
- Allow time to appreciate architectural details
- Try authentic Fuzhou snacks
Important Notes
- Don't touch relics or walls
- Stay within permitted areas
- Secure belongings in crowds
- Respect residents' privacy
- Mind narrow alleyways