The 14th Five-Year Plan marks a pivotal period for Quanzhou to deepen the integration of culture and tourism while advancing its status as a dynamic cultural hub. The recently released Special Plan for Cultural and Tourism Reform and Development (2021–2025) outlines the city's strategic vision to become a global benchmark for world heritage protection and sustainable cultural tourism.

　　Key objectives include strengthening the Minnan Cultural Eco-Protection Zone, developing national-level demonstration zones for public cultural services and tourism consumption, and reaching a target of 130 million tourist visits and ￥200 billion in tourism revenue by 2025.

　　Positioning Quanzhou as a Leader in Traditional Performing Arts

　　Renowned as a cradle of traditional Chinese theatre, Quanzhou is intensifying its support for cultural professionals and performance platforms. The goal is to revitalise its distinctive artistic traditions and foster innovation in the performing arts sector.

　　Flagship initiatives include the Stage Arts Excellence Programme, the "Quanzhou Drama Hub" Communication Campaign, and the development of high-quality productions across radio, television, and digital media. By 2025, the city aims to secure over ten National Arts Fund projects, produce or revive more than 30 performances of traditional operas—such as Puppet Theatre, Nanyin, Liyuan Opera, Gaojia Opera, and Dacheng Opera—and generate over 30 acclaimed audio-visual works.

　　Culinary Culture as a Driver of Tourism Growth

　　Quanzhou cuisine reflects a rich legacy of fusion, innovation, and regional diversity—shaped by Min-Yue traditions, Central Plains culture, and maritime trade along the ancient Silk Road.

　　The plan promotes the synergy between gastronomy and tourism by fostering leading culinary brands, launching flagship Quanzhou cuisine restaurants, and establishing themed food districts and snack streets. Rural tourism will be enhanced by showcasing local food heritage, with the ultimate goal of positioning Quanzhou as a premier culinary destination with a strong cultural narrative.

　　Improving Cultural Access Through Urban and Rural Initiatives

　　Enhancing public access to culture is central to the city's development strategy. Quanzhou will pursue national demonstration status by establishing "15-Minute Urban Cultural Circles" and "Ten-Li Rural Cultural Zones", ensuring convenient access to cultural resources.

　　By 2025, the city aims to provide at least 263 square metres of public cultural space per 1,000 residents—sustaining its provincial leadership. Major projects include the 811 Public Facilities Initiative, the "People's Stage" Enhancement Programme, street art activation zones, and the "3331 Cultural Volunteer Programme". Plans call for the creation of more than 50 new cultural venues, 50 designated street performance areas, and 60 township-level tourism service centres.

　　Preserving Intangible Heritage and Enhancing World Heritage Stewardship

　　As one of China's most recent additions to the UNESCO World Heritage list, Quanzhou is prioritising the protection and sustainable use of its 22 heritage sites. The city will link museums, archaeological sites, revolutionary landmarks, Taiwan-related and overseas Chinese heritage, and key cultural institutions to promote integrated heritage management.

　　By 2025, Quanzhou aims for full implementation of the "Three Safeguards" for national-level heritage sites and 100% compliance with the "Four Haves" requirements for provincial-level sites. Major risk mitigation will be completed, and over 50% of sites will be equipped with intelligent fire safety systems.

　　Supporting efforts include the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Documentation Project, initiatives to revive traditional Chinese craftsmanship, and professional development programmes for ICH bearers. The city will host over 80 ICH promotional events annually, launch more than 20 heritage-themed tourism routes, upgrade over 20 ICH learning centres, and introduce regular ICH performances at over 15 top-rated tourist attractions. Additionally, 50 new productive conservation demonstration bases will be established to ensure living heritage continues to thrive.