On May 10, in front of 14,563 passionate fans, the third round of the 2026 Fujian Provincial City Football League regular season saw Ningde face Longyan. The match ended 0-0, but Ningde’s relentless effort until the very last second showcased a century-old burning passion for the beautiful game.
Xiapu, a coastal county in Ningde, is the cradle of modern football in Fujian, with roots dating back to 1895. 
Local legends say even a crumpled paper ball can spark a “World Cup” among the youth. According to historical records, the first official match for Xiapu football was in 1933, when the Changxi Football Team defeated a navy fleet team through brilliant tactics. Since then, Xiapu has been a constant presence in Fujian football, producing stars like Lin Xiuhang, Lin Ziqi, and Lin Yuke, who have netted 6 goals in the first two rounds of this year’s league.
Beyond the pitch, Xiapu boasts the longest coastline in China (510 km) and the largest tidal flat area (690 square kilometers), famously known as “China’s Most Beautiful Tidal Flats.” Here, the interplay of tides and light creates a stunning natural canvas, a paradise for photographers and travelers alike. Key spots include Beishi Tidal Flat for sunrise and seaweed harvest scenes, Xiaohao Beach for its colorful tidal pools, Dongbi Village for breathtaking sunsets over fishing rafts, and Shajiang S-Bend for dramatic aerial vistas of winding aquaculture frames.
To experience the fusion of football culture and coastal beauty, a 2-day 1-night itinerary is recommended: Day 1 – arrive at Xiapu, visit Xiapu No.1 Middle School (a national campus football pilot school), capture the sunset at Shajiang S-Bend, and enjoy fresh seafood. Day 2 – watch the sunrise at Beishi, explore the tidal flats, and organize a casual family football match on a grassy patch.
Follow the Fujian Super League to Ningde – Xiapu welcomes you with its unique football spirit and stunning natural scenery. Meet us by the green field and on the golden tidal flats.