Location & Transportation
Egret Islet Park-Yundang Academy sits in the heart of Xiamen’s Siming District, right next to the calm waters of Yundang Lake. To get there, take Bus No. 87 or 31 to the “Bai Lu Zhou Dong Lu” stop—the park’s bright green gates are hard to miss. If you’re walking from Xiamen’s city center, it’s a 15-minute stroll along tree-lined streets. The area feels peaceful, yet just a short ride away from lively attractions like Nanputuo Temple or the Seaside Bund.
Natural Scenery: A City Oasis
The park lives up to its name with egret-themed sculptures and a lakeside path perfect for morning jogs. Shady pavilions line the shores of Yundang Lake, where couples often rent paddleboats. In spring, pink bougainvillaea blooms climb the bridges, and families picnic under giant umbrella trees. Keep an eye out for real egrets—they sometimes nest in the reeds by the water!
Cultural Gem: Yudang Academy
Inside the park, Yudang Academy is a hidden treasure. This modern-traditional building blends white walls with wooden roofs, inspired by ancient Chinese academies. It hosts calligraphy workshops where tourists can try brush painting, and the gift shop sells tea sets carved with Fujian landscapes. On weekends, local musicians play guqin (a traditional zither) in the courtyard—it’s like stepping into a poet’s dream.
Practical Amenities
The park has clean restrooms and free Wi-Fi near the main entrance. For snacks, the lakeside café serves coconut cake and tea with views of the water. Families love the playground with sandpits and climbing structures. Renting a bike costs about ¥20/hour, and there’s even a mini-library where you can swap books with other travelers.
Ultimate Day-Out Experience
Start your visit at sunrise when the lake glistens with fog. Walk through the Egret Islet Park’s bamboo grove, then explore Yudang Academy’s art exhibits. Around noon, grab lunch at the nearby seafood stalls (try the oyster omelette!). In the afternoon, join a free tai chi class by the lake. As the sun sets, the lights on the bridges create a magical reflection—perfect for Instagram photos. End your day with a walk to the nearby night market for fried squid and bubble tea.
This spot proves you don’t need to go far for adventure—Egret Islet Park-Yudang Academy packs nature, culture, and local charm into one unforgettable stop.