Xiamen Travel Guide

Situated in the south of Fujian Province in eastern China, Xiamen is one the province's largest cities. It has plenty of history, is easy to get to and has the popular Gulang Yu Island nearby.

Worth It?: Yes, as an entry point to southeast China and its laid-back feel.
What to Do: visit parks, historic districts, laze on a beach, boat trip to Gulang Yu.
Best Time to Go: this part gets very hot and is best visited in September and October.
How Long?: Two days minimum in Xiamen and surroundings.
Trivia: Xiamen is one of China's four special economic zones and ranks as one of its busiest ports.

There are more popular destinations to visit in this region of China, including that of Fuzhou, the provincial capital farther north, yet the less touristy nature and accessibility of Xiamen make it popular. In addition, it has a pretty harbor and has all modern facilities, with chain hotels, good entertainment value, and great seafood restaurants.

Xiamen city is capital of Xiamen Island just offshore from the mainland and is connected by bridges, rail, sea, and air. The busiest parts of the island are the districts of Huli and Siming. Huli Hill Fort is a must-see. Other popular Xiamen attractions are Nanputuo Temple and the Wanshi Botanical Gardens.

There are also many parks in town, with ancient buildings and miles of walkways. Underwater Sea World at Zhongshan Park is a popular attraction for kids, with its baby sharks. For entertainment and bars, the street near the Marco Polo Hotel has lots of action.

Being an island, Xiamen has many beaches with the best of them along the coast near Xiamen University Beach, which also comes with a boardwalk. The Island Ring Road provides access to many more beaches.

The main attraction for visitors to Xiamen is nearby Gulang Yu Island. It's a little island 10 minutes from Xiamen harbor by boat and comes with old buildings and no traffic. There are some great seafood restaurants here, along with attractions like the Xiamen Sea World. The downside is that the island gets very busy.

Travel to Xiamen - Getting There

Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport is the gateway, receiving flights from all over China. Xiamen is 1 hour, 30 minutes from Shanghai's airports; 45 minutes from Hong Kong. Beijing is a 37-hour train journey away and Fuzhou, the Fujian capital, is 250kms north along the main Guangzhou-Shanghai highway.

Xiamen Things to Do

Xiamen Attractions

Nanputuo Temple

this 1,000-year-old temple was built during the Tang Dynasty and is famed for its laughing Buddha.

Wanshi Botanical Gardens

one of Xiamen's most popular attractions is good for relaxing and picnicking near the city center.

Xiamen University

not far from town, this university has a fine campus and gardens. It also boasts the Huli Hill Fort and a beautiful beach.

Sea World

a boon for kids in a busy city, Sea World features sharks and penguins.

Side trips from Xiamen

Gulang Yu Island: a 10-minute boat ride from Xiamen, this island has many old buildings, beaches, and cafés. The highest point is Sunlight Rock.
Yongding: lying around four hours from Xiamen, inland, this small county is known for its traditional Hakka tulou roundhouses.

Events

Tourism Festival: a May event showing off Xiamen's culture.