Fujian is located in southeast China facing Taiwan across the Taiwan Straits. Fujian has a proud maritime tradition and its ports have been dispatching Chinese goods worldwide for centuries. The semi-tropical coastal area is lush and has prospered from the province's success in international trade. In contrast, away from the coastal plains, Fujian's western mountains are craggy, fairly inhospitable and poor. Fujian is situated on the pacific volcano circle and is rich in volcanic remains.

Quanzhou is the oldest port in Fujian, and was at its peak during the Tang dynasty (618-907). Its fortunes declined after the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) but later Fujian's treaty ports of Fuzhou and Xiamen (Amoy) thrived. Today, the provincial capital of Fuzhou and the picturesque seaside city of Xiamen are experiencing the most economic success in the province.

The fertile plains of Fujian produce a wide range of crops and the famous Oolong tea is grown in the Wuxi mountains. Fujian has a distinct and delicious cuisine and its coastal location ensures good seafood in the port cities' restaurants.