Saint Dominic’s Cathedral

Located along the Min River in Fuzhou, Saint Dominic's Cathedral—locally known as the Fanchuanpu Catholic Church—offers a captivating stop on your trip to Fujian, China. First established by Spanish Dominicans in 1864, this historic seat of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Fuzhou remains the largest Catholic church in the province today, designed to accommodate up to 3,000 people. You will be amazed by its architectural blend: primarily Gothic Revival featuring blue ribbed groin vaults dotted with stars, complemented by Neoclassical Corinthian columns, Romanesque rounded arches, and traditional Chinese exterior pinnacles.

Inside, explore five distinct altars, including a high altar crowned with Our Lady of the Rosary, alongside vibrant stained-glass windows detailing biblical scenes, Marian apparitions, and the Seven Sacraments. Outside the main sanctuary, stroll through the peaceful Cathedral Garden to view saint statues, Chinese scripture engravings, a large standing crucifix, and shrines dedicated to St. Therese and Our Lady of Fatima.

Do not miss seeing the cathedral rectory, an architectural marvel that was expertly rotated 90 degrees and shifted 80 meters in 2008 to make way for city development while preserving its original beauty.

What to see at Saint Dominic's Cathedral

• Fujian's largest Catholic church, originally built to seat up to 3,000 worshipers
• Stunning blue groin vaults painted with stars and lined with Corinthian columns
• Vibrant leaded stained-glass windows illustrating biblical scenes and Marian apparitions
• Serene Cathedral Garden featuring stone biblical inscriptions and saint statues
• Historic rectory structure that was rotated 90 degrees and relocated 80 meters in 2008

Visiting tips

Take time to wander through the Cathedral Garden to view the unique Chinese biblical engravings and admire the saint statues situated around the complex.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Saint Dominic's Cathedral is easy to reach on Fuzhou’s public transport, and pairs naturally with The Aowei Church of Holy Rosary and Qingzhou Bridge. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Fuzhou travel guide.