Fujian province is home to two iconic World Heritage Sites that serve as "cultural ambassadors", the Fujian tulou, or earthen buildings, and the extraordinary Gulangyu Island.

These sites, rich in historical significance and modern innovation, embody "Fujian wisdom" in global cultural heritage conservation and act as bridges for cultural exchanges between China and the world.

Fujian tulou is constructed using locally sourced materials like yellow earth, stones, bamboo, wood and tiles, which naturally return to the environment without ecological harm.

Strategically placed on elevated ground or away from mountains, these structures reflect the principle of "harmony between humanity and nature", offering valuable insights for sustainable architectural design worldwide.

In recent years, Fujian has promoted the adaptive reuse of tulou, updating their public functions while preserving their historical features, thereby contributing to rural vitalization.

Their unique architectural style and rich heritage continue to attract global visitors, serving as a cultural window for dialogue between China and the world.

Elsewhere, in the mid-to-late 19th century, Gulangyu Island became a hub for the integration of Chinese and Western cultures, nurturing scholars who significantly influenced Western sinology.

Notably, Herbert Allen Giles, a British consul in Xiamen, compiled the Chinese-English Dictionary on Gulangyu, introducing Minnan dialect words like "kung fu" and "typhoon" into the international lexicon.

Gustaaf Schlegel, a professor at Leiden University in Holland, was captivated by local Minnan culture and included over 300 Minnan dialect words in the Dutch-Chinese Dictionary.

Since its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gulangyu has expanded its global network through its unique musical culture. The Artist-in-Residence Program, launched in 2023, has welcomed eight renowned international artists, enhancing cultural exchanges.

Gulangyu's global outreach also extends to heritage protection concepts, establishing connections with World Heritage Sites in countries such as France, Russia and Italy. This initiative lays a solid foundation for sharing experiences and achievements in World Heritage protection.