Location & How to Get There

Fanpo Building sits on Gulangyu Island, a car-free paradise in Xiamen, Fujian Province. The exact address is No. 36, Anhai Road, Siming District—a quiet spot near popular attractions like Sunlight Rock and Shuzhuang Garden. To reach Fanpo Building, first take a ferry from Xiamen International Cruise Center to Gulangyu Island (ferries run every 20 minutes). Once on the island, walk or rent a bike; it’s a 10-minute ride from the ferry terminal to Fanpo Building.

Natural Scenery Around Fanpo Building

Though Fanpo Building itself is a human-made marvel, its surroundings are equally charming. The villa is tucked amid lush greenery and narrow, winding lanes typical of Gulangyu. Just a short walk away, you’ll find coastal views and ocean breezes, especially near the Wuyi Beach area. Morning light filtering through palm trees or sunsets over the rooftops create perfect backdrops for photos of Fanpo Building.

Cultural & Historical Vibes

Fanpo Building is a timeless gem blending Chinese tradition with Western flair. Built in 1927 by Filipino-Chinese entrepreneur Xu Jingquan (a wealthy merchant from Jinjiang, Fujian), this villa stands out on Gulangyu. Its bright yellow and white walls, ornate balconies, and arched windows reflect art nouveau (Locomoco) styles, yet details like traditional wooden carvings and ceramic roof tiles nod to Chinese craftsmanship. Guides often call it “Gulangyu’s hidden art piece” because few villas mix cultures so seamlessly.

Did you know? Fanpo Building has been a movie star! Films like Liao Zhongkai, Springtime in Autumn, and Tulou People were shot here. Directors love its grand staircase, vintage interiors, and timeless elegance—even though the building isn’t open to visitors today, you can still snap photos outside.

What to Expect Today

Sadly, Fanpo Building isn’t open for tours anymore. But don’t let that stop you! The exterior alone is worth a visit. Wander up to Anhai Road, where the villa looms large with its pastel colors and iron-wrought gates. Peer through the fence to admire delicate floral patterns on the walls or curved roof edges.

Nearby Attractions & Tips

After checking out Fanpo Building, explore nearby spots:

  • Japanese Embassy Old Site: A stone’s throw away, with pretty gardens.
  • Gulangyu Piano Museum: Perfect for music lovers.
  • Nanyang Villa: Another iconic Gulangyu mansion.

For a quick bite, try Anhai Road’s cafes or street snacks like oyster omelettes. If you’re into photography, visit Fanpo Building early morning (soft light) or late afternoon (golden hour)—the sun casts magical shadows on its textured walls.

Why Fanpo Building Stands Out

In a place full of historic villas, Fanpo Building shines. Unlike other Gulangyu buildings, it mixes bold European designs (think swirly patterns and pastel hues) with Eastern touches like dragon motifs and red lanterns. Even from the road, it’s hard to miss—just look for the yellow-and-white villa with a storybook vibe. Locals joke it’s “Gulangyu’s crown jewel”—and after seeing it, you’ll agree!

(Note: Fanpo Building remains privately owned, so respect the property and enjoy its beauty from the outside.)