Does Xiamen Have A Tourist Sightseeing Bus? What Are The Routes And Fares?

Yes, Xiamen offers a convenient tourist sightseeing bus service called the “Xiamen Tourist Shuttle Bus,” designed specifically for travelers eager to explore the city’s highlights efficiently. This hop-on-hop-off system connects major attractions, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time. The buses are comfortable, equipped with air conditioning, and offer bilingual commentary (Chinese and English) to enhance your experience.

What Routes Do the Sightseeing Buses Cover?

The shuttle buses operate on two main routes: Route A and Route B, each focusing on different areas of Xiamen.

Route A (Cultural & Historical Loop):
Start/End Point: Xiamen South Bus Station (Near Gaoqi Airport)
Key Stops: Gulangyu Ferry Terminal, Nanputuo Temple, Wulaoling Mountain, Jimei Ancestral Hall, and Hulishe Abdomen Pie Street.
Nanputuo Temple
Nestled near Xiamen University, this serene Buddhist site offers mountain trails, ancient cliff carvings, and a famed vegetarian feast—all within a stone’s throw of lush gardens and cultural treasures.
Duration: Approx. 4–5 hours (depending on traffic).
Route B (Coastal & Urban Highlights):
Start/End Point: Xiamen Cruise Center (Wuyuan Bay)
Key Stops: Wanshi Mountain, Xiamen University, Baicheng Beach, Haoyue Park, and Zengcuo’an Bathing Beach.
Xiamen University
A coastal campus blending mountain and sea, featuring tropical gardens, ancient-style buildings, and a historic legacy by philanthropist Tan Kah Kee. Perfect for scenic strolls and cultural charm.
Duration: Approx. 3.5–4 hours.

Both routes offer flexibility to hop off at attractions and rejoin later. Full route maps and schedules are available on the official Xiamen Tourism Bureau website or at hotel front desks.

How Much Do the Tickets Cost?

The Xiamen Tourist Shuttle Bus uses a simple pricing system:

Ticket Type	Price (RMB)	Validity
1-Day Pass (Single Route)	50	Unlimited rides for 24 hours
2-Day Pass (Both Routes)	90	Unlimited rides for 48 hours
Child Ticket (Aged 6–12)	25	Same as adult ticket

Tickets can be purchased online via xiamentouristbus.com or at designated kiosks near major stops. Children under 6 ride free, and students/seniors may qualify for discounts with ID.

Any Alternative Ways to Explore Xiamen?

While the sightseeing bus is popular, Xiamen’s compact size and scenic landscapes make walking or biking equally appealing. For example:

Ride-Sharing Bikes: Companies like Mobike and Ofo offer affordable bike rentals (~1–2 RMB/hour) with English-friendly apps.
Walking Tours: The Siming District (downtown) and Gulangyu Island are best explored on foot to soak in their charm.
Ferries & Water Taxis: For coastal views, take the ferry to Gulangyu Island (35 RMB