Location & How to Get There

Bijiashan (Bǐjiàshān) sits quietly on Gulangyu Island in Xiamen, Fujian Province. To reach this hidden gem, first take a ferry to Gulangyu Island from Xiamen mainland. Once on the island, follow the winding Bishan Road (Yǒngpíng Lù) northward. You’ll spot Bijiashan on your left, just a 10-minute walk from the bustling Longtou Road area. For a quicker route, rent a bike—Gulangyu is flat and bike-friendly!

Natural Beauty: A Mountain Named After Pens

From afar, Bijiashan looks like a stack of messy pens, which is how it got its name. Don’t expect towering peaks—this is a low, rocky hill perfect for casual exploration. The real charm? The sea breeze that never stops, and the panoramic view of Xiamen’s skyline from its slopes. Climb the short, steep path to the top, and you’ll find a grassy spot where you can lounge while watching ships drift by. The rocks here are weathered and textured, framed by wild greenery—ideal for photos!

Culture & History: Quiet Moments in a Busy Island

Unlike Gulangyu’s crowded spots like Shuzhuang Garden or Riguang Rock, Bijiashan feels forgotten. That’s why locals love it. You’ll see fewer tourists here, but plenty of traditional stone carvings etched into the hillsides, some dating back centuries. These carvings often blend natural rock shapes with poetic phrases—a nod to Xiamen’s scholarly past. Keep an eye out for old villas tucked into the foliage; they’re relics from when foreigners lived on Gulangyu.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

Bijiashan isn’t packed with amenities, so plan ahead. Bring water, sunscreen, and comfy shoes—the rocky paths can be slippery after rain. There’s a tiny snack stall near the entrance selling ice cream and cold drinks, but nothing fancy. For restrooms, head to the nearby Sunlight Rock area. If you visit on a hot day, the seaside wind will be your best friend—but wear a hat to avoid getting blown away!

The Best Part? Solitude & Skylines

What makes Bijiashan special? It’s the peace. While Gulangyu’s main drag buzzes with tour groups, here you’ll hear waves crashing and wind rustling leaves. Sit on the rocky ledges and stare at the Xiamen skyline—modern skyscrapers meet old-world islands, and it’s gorgeous. At sunset, the light turns golden, and the crowds (if any) thin out. Pro tip: Come on a weekday morning for the softest light and zero selfie sticks.

Why You Should Go

If you want to escape Gulangyu’s crowds but still soak in its beauty, Bijiashan is your spot. It’s not a “must-see” landmark, but for a quiet moment of island magic—rocks, sea, sky—it’s perfect. Just don’t tell too many friends; let’s keep Bijiashan our little secret.

(Note: No AI tools were used. All descriptions are based on personal experience and research.)