By Wang Jinzhi, Dai Yuxuan, and Wang Yan

　　“A Feast for the Senses”

　　On March 6, the micro-short drama Peach Blossom Spring with You began filming in Yongchun County, Quanzhou. Co-produced by China Central Television’s Film Channel, this is the first installment in the Taste the Movies series.

　　The drama revolves around Yongchun’s signature dishes, weaving a heartwarming story of a young protagonist returning home to reconnect with family and heritage through food. With stunning cinematography and rich storytelling, the series aims to offer audiences an immersive sensory experience.

　　Local cuisine featured includes the Kui Xing Banquet, a grand culinary showcase of Yongchun’s flavors, and Ge Tan, a beloved street food tradition. Lead actors Wu Jiayi, Ge Zhaomei, and Shan Jingyao expressed their admiration for Yongchun, recommending dishes such as aged vinegar pig trotters, kumquat buns, and red mushroom chicken soup.

　　Wang Yan, General Manager of 1905 Film Network, noted that Yongchun was chosen for its unique cultural landscape, which aligns perfectly with the drama’s Oriental Pastoral Aesthetics theme. He emphasized that the production will bring Quanzhou’s cuisine and culture to life, offering viewers a visually and gastronomically enriching experience.

　　“The Irresistible Aroma of Tieguanyin”

　　On March 6, table tennis legend Deng Yaping visited Quanzhou for a charity event. Reflecting on her trip, she praised the region’s tea culture, describing the city as a paradise for tea lovers. “A good cup of tea paired with exquisite dim sum—this is my perfect afternoon,” she shared.

　　Renowned singer Tan Jing echoed this sentiment. On February 25, she visited Anxi’s Jinxi Art Village for an immersive cultural experience. Despite being from Shanxi, a province not known for tea production, Tan has long been a devoted tea enthusiast. “I have a deep love for oolong tea, and Anxi’s Tieguanyin is simply irresistible,” she said. “Even when I was abroad as a visiting scholar, the familiar fragrance of Tieguanyin always brought me a sense of warmth and nostalgia.”

Tan Jing enjoying Tieguanyin tea with traditional floral hair accessories.

　　“Quanzhou is a Foodie’s Paradise”

　　Actress Li Chun, known for her roles in Ruyi’s Royal Love in the Palace and Joy of Life, recently returned to Quanzhou and shared a vlog documenting her culinary adventures. “Quanzhou is an amazing city for both food and exploration,” she enthused.

　　She relished the city’s famous Ginger Duck, pouring the rich, fragrant broth over rice before savoring the tender meat. “This is exactly the flavor I was craving—unbeatable!” she exclaimed. Other highlights of her trip included Shrimp Noodles and hearty farm-style dishes.

A screenshot from Li Chun’s vlog featuring Quanzhou’s delicacies.

　　“Food is the Key to Happiness”

　　Quanzhou-born actress Gong Beibi also shared her hometown food journey on social media, exploring the historic Bagua Street in Shishi. From traditional Cai Guo (vegetable cakes) and Rou Zong (meat dumplings) to flavorful Beef Soup and crispy Scallion Pancakes, every bite evoked a taste of home.

　　During the Lunar New Year, she and her family strolled through Bagua Street, indulging in a feast of classic snacks, including Suanrong Zhi (garlic shoots) and Runbing Cai (spring roll fillings). “Our beef dishes are especially outstanding,” she noted, recommending both Beef Soup and Beef Congee to visitors.

　　Encouraging fans to explore Shishi’s culinary scene, she wrote: “If you ever visit, drop a comment on my social media—I’ll curate a must-try food list for you!”

　　On February 7, Gong reposted a video showcasing Quanzhou’s delicacies with the caption: “Food lovers always win! If you want to win, come to my hometown, Quanzhou!”

Gong Beibi savoring local delicacies on Shishi’s Bagua Street.

　　A Rising Culinary Destination

　　Journalist Wang Bingbing recently spotlighted Quanzhou on China’s Food Conference, calling it “a hidden gem for food lovers” and urging audiences to visit. Actor Zhang Xiaolong also visited the city, raving about Mianxian Hu (rice vermicelli soup) and Runbing Cai, calling them “absolutely delicious.”

　　Hong Kong actor Terence Yin praised Quanzhou’s iconic Ginger Duck, Dried Bamboo Shoots, and Meatball Winter Melon Soup, describing the duck as “exceptionally crafted” and “a dish that takes true culinary skill.”

　　From its humble street food to its refined traditional banquets, Quanzhou continues to charm visitors with its rich and diverse gastronomic heritage, earning its place as one of China’s most treasured food cities.