Location & Accessibility

Gulangyu Scenic Area - Piano Garden, Xiamen sits on Hero Hill in the southeastern part of Gulangyu Island. To get there, you’ll first take a ferry to Gulangyu from Xiamen mainland (around 20 minutes). Once on the island, it’s a 20-minute uphill walk from the main ferry terminal, or you can rent a bike or electric scooter for easier access. The park is nestled near Sunlight Rock, so if you’re visiting both, plan your route to avoid backtracking.

Natural Highlights: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

The heart of Piano Garden is its Bird Park, home to over 100 bird species, including freely roaming peacocks that often strut across the paths. Unlike caged exhibits, many birds here are semi-wild, creating a lively, jungle-like atmosphere. Daily bird shows start at 10:30 AM sharp—think parrots riding mini-bikes, doves diving through hoops, and parakeets “playing” piano keys. Shows run for 40 minutes, so arrive early to grab a shaded seat! Pro tip: Check the park’s schedule online, as times may shift seasonally.

Cultural & Artistic Touches

Beyond birds, Piano Garden celebrates Gulangyu’s musical legacy. The Audio-Visual Gallery showcases vintage pianos and recordings of famous composers who visited the island. Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Gallery, which features local artists’ works inspired by Gulangyu’s landscapes. For a quieter moment, stroll to the Heroes’ Memorial Garden, a tranquil spot honoring island defenders with stone carvings and reflective spaces.

Practical Tips for Visitors

  • Entrance: Adult tickets cost around ¥30, while the bird show is included.
  • Timing: Mornings are best—fewer crowds and cooler weather. Afternoons can feel stuffy, especially near the aviaries.
  • What to Bring: Sunscreen, hats, and water. While there are snack stands, bring snacks for kids (or finicky peacocks!).
  • Photo Ops: The peacocks love posing, but keep distance—they’re wild! The garden’s red-roofed pavilions make great backdrops.

Family-Friendly Fun & Hidden Gems

Parents, rejoice: Piano Garden is interactive! Kids can feed birds (grains sold on-site) or try “piano stones” embedded in pathways that produce chimes when tapped. Less-crowded spots include the Orchid Pavilion (free) and a bamboo grove with swings. Note: Some areas have steep steps, so strollers might struggle—baby carriers are easier here.

Nearby Attractions & Dining

After your visit, walk 15 minutes to Sunlight Rock for panoramic island views. For lunch, head to Longtou Road (near the ferry) for seafood noodles or oyster omelets. If you’re staying overnight, Gulangyu’s Nanjing Road offers cozy guesthouses with rooftop sunset views.

Final Tip: Gulangyu is car-free, so explore Piano Garden at a leisurely pace. The mix of flapping wings, piano melodies, and island breeze makes it a sensory-rich stop worth savoring!