A clean, garden-like seaside city in Fujian, Xiamen is loved for the car-free island of Gulangyu, its laid-back cafe culture and as a launch point to the UNESCO-listed Hakka earthen roundhouses (tulou).
History & culture
A treaty port and historic emigration gateway to Southeast Asia, Xiamen's island of Gulangyu became an international settlement, leaving a dense layer of colonial mansions, churches and pianos amid banyan trees.
What to see & do
- ◆Gulangyu Island's car-free lanes and villas
- ◆Nanputuo Temple beneath Wulao Peak
- ◆The seaside ring-road bike path
- ◆Hakka tulou roundhouses (day trip to Yongding/Nanjing county)
- ◆Shapowei arts harbour at night
What to eat
- ●Oyster omelette (hai li jian)
- ●Satay noodles (sha cha mian)
- ●Popiah fresh spring rolls
Getting there
Gaoqi International Airport and high-speed rail connect Xiamen along the southeast coast. Ferries reach Gulangyu (book online in advance).
Avoid the pitfalls
- Gulangyu ferry tickets are capped and sell out — reserve a time slot ahead.
- Tulou tours are long day trips; confirm the itinerary and travel time.
- Typhoon season (summer–autumn) can disrupt ferries and flights.
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