Location & How to Get There

Golden Gourd Tower sits at 99 Quanzhou Road, Siming District, Xiamen, right in the heart of the old city. If you’re coming from Zhongshan Road (the bustling pedestrian street) or Gulangyu Island (a 10-minute ferry ride away), it’s an easy stop. Take Bus 112 or Tourism Line 1 to get close, but honestly, walking makes more sense—Xiamen’s old quarters are tiny and full of hidden gems.

Natural Scenery: Sunlight and Shadows

The tower itself isn’t natural, but the way it interacts with sunlight is magical. Those two golden-yellow “gourds” on top? They sparkle like little suns under the daylight, especially in the morning. The 8 ridged lines on each gourd catch the light so well that even on cloudy days, they stand out. Surrounding it are red-tile roofs and ficus trees—a classic mix of old Fujian architecture and tropical greenery.

Cultural Charm: Architecture Meets Art

Here’s why Golden Gourd Tower is special: it’s like a mini-Europe in Xiamen! The design mixes Roman columns and Loube style (think fancy European churches). But the real stars are the gold-painted gourds, which look like something you’d see in Florence or Salzburg. Locals say the gourds symbolize good luck—they’re covered in intricate patterns that look like vines, meant to wish visitors “endless prosperity.” Even if you don’t care about symbolism, the building is a fun photo spot.

Practical Tips: Visiting the Tower

  • Opening hours: It’s free to see from outside, but the interior might be closed for renovations (check latest info).
  • Best time to visit: Morning light makes the gold shine brighter. Evening works too, but the area gets crowded.
  • What to bring: A hat (it’s sunny!) and comfy shoes—you’ll want to wander nearby streets after.

Nearby Fun: Food and More

Right next to Golden Gourd Tower are tiny shops selling Fujian snacks: try oyster omelettes or peanut soup. For coffee, head to Lanyuan Café down the road. If you’re into souvenirs, the nearby market has hand-painted fans and clay sculptures.

Immersive Experience: More Than a Photo

Don’t just snap a pic and leave! Walk inside the courtyard (if open) to see the red brick walls and traditional carvings. At night, the gourds are lit up, creating a warm glow. Locals sometimes play music here—it’s a quieter, more authentic side of Xiamen.

Pro tip: Pair your visit with nearby Nanputuo Temple or Wangpu Fortress. And yes, Golden Gourd Tower is one of those “pinch-me” spots where history, art, and luck all come together!