Fuzhou is not always the flashiest opening city, but it can be the smarter one. For travelers who want easier evenings, a more even city rhythm, and a cleaner balance between food, walking, and culture, it often outperforms a more obvious arrival base.
It is particularly useful when the itinerary will later become denser. Starting in Fuzhou can give the trip a smoother first chapter before shifting into Quanzhou heritage, Xiamen arrival logistics, or a more specialized Wuyishan segment.