Location & Transportation

Jimei Middle School sits in the heart of Jimei District, Xiamen, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Aoyu Road (No. 19). To get there, you can hop on Bus 959 or Bus 921 from downtown Xiamen—it’s about a 30-minute ride. If you’re driving, punch “Jimei School Village” into Google Maps, and you’ll arrive right at its gate. Bonus: it’s near Ao Garden and Dragon Boat Pool, so you can combine your trip with other sights!

Natural Scenery

Nestled between the sea and green hills, Jimei Middle School feels like a hidden gem. Walk through the campus, and you’ll spot hundred-year-old banyan trees stretching their branches like natural umbrellas. In spring, flame-of-the-forest trees burst into orange-red blooms, making the skyline look like a painting. The best part? The school’s right by the coast, so you’ll catch whispers of ocean breezes while exploring.

Cultural Heritage

This isn’t just any school—it was founded in 1918 by Tan Kah Kee, a Chinese-Malaysian tycoon who poured his fortune into education. Every corner of Jimei Middle School screams history: the red-roofed buildings blend Chinese pagodas with Western arches, a style Tan loved. Don’t miss the school history museum, where old photos and letters show how Tan dreamed of building a “nest for future dragons.” Even today, students here send thank-you letters to Tan by drawing cartoons of him!

Campus Highlights

• “Yixue Tower”: A three-story library named after Tan’s motto “Learn for others”. Climb to the top for views of the campus.
• Cultural Walls: Giant murals depict stories like Tan carrying bricks to build the school—yes, he really did manual labor!
• Student Performances: On weekends, you might catch traditional Southern Fujian music or lion dances practiced by students.

Visitor-Friendly Tips

The school welcomes guests, but call ahead (phone: 0592-6060228) to check if tours are available. Wear comfy shoes—the campus is huge! There’s a small café near the entrance selling bubble tea and snacks, and clean restrooms. English-speaking guides are sometimes available, but downloading the “Xiamen Tourism” app for audio guides is a safe bet.

What to Expect

Walking through Jimei Middle School feels like stepping into a time machine. Kids in uniforms cycle past 1920s-style buildings, while teachers chat under traditional wooden eaves. Locals love bringing kids here to say, “Study hard—see what legacy looks like?” But even without the lectures, the mix of ocean views, historic vibes, and lush gardens makes it a serene escape from Xiamen’s busier spots.

Pro Tip: Visit on a weekend morning. Weekdays can be crowded with tour groups, but weekends let you wander peacefully—plus, you might catch students rehearsing for festivals!