Xiamen: Island City, Colonial History & Coastal Charm

A City Where East Meets West: History, Gardens, and Ocean Breezes

Welcome to Xiamen, a picturesque port city on China’s southeastern coast that seamlessly blends colonial heritage with modern Chinese vitality. Known as the “Garden on the Sea,” Xiamen offers visitors a perfect mix of tropical scenery, rich history, and laid-back coastal living. As a first-time visitor, you’ll be captivated by its European-influenced architecture, beautiful beaches, and unique island culture.

Explore Xiamen with:

• Expedia
• Hotels.com
• Trip.com

Gulangyu Island: A Car-Free Paradise

Begin your Xiamen journey at this UNESCO World Heritage site, a pedestrian-only island known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and tranquil atmosphere.

💡 First-Timer Tip: Take the early morning ferry to avoid crowds and experience the island at its most peaceful. Don’t forget your passport for ferry ticket purchase!

Hulishan Fortress: Coastal Defense History

This 19th-century coastal fortress features one of the world’s largest existing Krupp cannons and offers stunning views of the Taiwan Strait.

💡 First-Timer Tip: Time your visit for the cannon demonstration (usually around 10 AM and 4 PM) to see historical reenactments.

Xiamen University: China’s Most Beautiful Campus

Stroll through this renowned university campus, celebrated for its beautiful colonial-era buildings and lush botanical gardens.

💡 First-Timer Tip: Visit the Furong Tunnel, a pedestrian tunnel covered in colorful student graffiti and artwork.

Navigating the Island City

Xiamen’s compact size and excellent public transportation make it easy to explore, with buses, ferries, and a unique elevated BRT system.

💡 First-Timer Tip: Purchase a Xiamen Tong card for convenient access to all public transportation, including ferries to Gulangyu.

A Culinary Adventure: Fresh Seafood & Fujian Flavors

Xiamen’s food scene highlights fresh seafood and unique Minnan (Southern Fujian) culinary traditions.

Must-Try Local Dishes:

1. Shacha Noodles (沙茶面): Xiamen’s signature noodle dish in a rich, savory peanut-and-shrimp-based broth.

   

2. Oyster Omelette (海蛎煎): A crispy, savory omelette packed with fresh local oysters.

3. Peanut Soup (花生汤): A sweet, warming dessert soup perfect for any time of day.

4. Fish Ball Soup (鱼丸汤): Light, bouncy fish balls in a clear, flavorful broth.

💡 First-Timer Tip: Head to Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street for the best street food experience and night market atmosphere!

History Meets Nature

Xiamen’s unique appeal lies in its perfect blend of historical sites and natural beauty:

• Nanputuo Temple : A centuries-old Buddhist temple nestled at the foot of Wulao Peak with beautiful architecture and mountain trails.

• Wanshi Botanical Garden (万石植物园) : A massive tropical garden with over 7,000 plant species and stunning rock formations.

  

• Zengcuoan Village (曾厝垵) : A former fishing village transformed into a vibrant arts and crafts community with charming alleyways.

Unique Island Experiences

• Island Ring Road Cycling : Rent a bike and cycle along Xiamen’s beautiful coastal ring road with ocean views.
• Sunset at Baicheng Beach : Watch the sun set over the Taiwan Strait from this popular city beach.
• Kulangsu Piano Museum : Discover Gulangyu’s musical heritage at this museum housing antique pianos.

Cultural Fusion: Minnan Traditions & Maritime History

• Gaojia Opera (高甲戏) : Experience this unique Fujian opera style known for its comedic performances at the Xiamen Art Theater.
• Light Show at Yundang Lake : Enjoy evening light displays reflecting off Xiamen’s inner lake.
• Xiamen International Conference Center : Marvel at the modern architecture shaped like a giant egret spreading its wings.

📝 Final Tips for First-Timers

1. Weather: Xiamen has a subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. Typhoon season runs from July to September.
2. Language: The local Minnan dialect is quite different from Mandarin. Most younger residents speak Mandarin, but learning basic phrases helps.
3. Island Time: Xiamen moves at a more relaxed pace than other Chinese cities. Embrace the laid-back coastal atmosphere.
4. Beach Preparedness: While beautiful, Xiamen’s beaches can be crowded on weekends. Visit on weekdays for a more peaceful experience.

Xiamen is a city that charms visitors with its graceful blend of Eastern and Western influences, where every turn reveals another beautiful garden, historical lane, or ocean view that will capture your heart.