Stay at Yingkeng Valley Homestay, a beautifully restored traditional Fujian farmhouse nestled amidst terraced fields and bamboo groves. Each room features authentic Minnan architectural elements like timber beams and glazed tiles, offering serene views of the surrounding hills. The homestay serves local farm-to-table meals, including clay-pot chicken and bamboo rice, while guests can join hands-on workshops like tea harvesting and basket weaving. Located just 40 minutes from Xiamen city center by car, it’s perfect for an immersive rural escape with cultural authenticity.

The most convenient option is to drive or book a private car, taking about 40 minutes via the West Ring Road followed by rural lanes. For public transport, take bus 650 from Xiamen Station to the "Yingkeng Valley" stop, which takes around 1 hour. Some travel platforms also offer private transfer services, ideal for groups or those carrying luggage. As there’s no metro access, self-driving or pre-arranged rides are recommended—especially during peak seasons when demand surges.

Guests can participate in hands-on tea picking sessions early in the morning among terraced tea gardens, learning how to harvest premium Tieguanyin buds. Workshops on using traditional tools like stone mills and bamboo drying racks offer insight into ancient Minnan agricultural practices. Every Saturday features a "Mountain Kitchen Day," where locals teach visitors to make seasonal treats like sweet potato cakes and red tortoise cakes. All activities are free but require advance HopeGoo. These immersive experiences provide genuine connection with rural life and heritage—perfect for families and group travelers.

Beyond the main terraces and old courtyard complex, hike 15 minutes to Cloud Mist Pond, a secluded forest-fed pool perfect for quiet reflection and photography. Another gem is the White Crane Bridge Ruins, a Qing Dynasty stone arch bridge now reduced to elegant remnants, ideal for photography enthusiasts seeking historical ambiance. At dusk, visit the Stargazing Platform, where clear skies reveal stunning constellations contrasting with distant city lights—rare for urban outskirts. Bring insect repellent and a light jacket for evening exploration. These off-the-beaten-path locations offer intimate encounters with nature and heritage.

Must-try dishes include clay-pot chicken, slow-cooked with free-range local chickens for two hours, yielding rich broth and tender meat. Bamboo rice is another highlight—glutinous rice cooked with cured sausage and mushrooms sealed inside bamboo tubes, releasing a delicate herbal aroma. Seasonal sweets like sweet potato cakes and red tortoise cakes are served warm, symbolizing prosperity. All ingredients are sourced directly from the farm or nearby villages, ensuring freshness and authenticity. Enjoy these meals during a farm dinner experience, dining under lantern-lit trees while listening to villagers share folk tales, creating a heartwarming rural gathering atmosphere.