Location & Access

Lü Jiang sits between two gems of Xiamen: Gulangyu Island and Xiamen Island. This 600-meter-wide waterway is easy to find in Siming District, Fujian Province. The best way to reach it? Hop on a ferry from Xiamen Ferry Terminal—a 5-minute ride across Lü Jiang lands you on Gulangyu’s charming shores. The area around the ferry docks is locally called “Ferry” (轮渡), since this is where all boats shuttle between the islands.

Natural Scenery: Graceful Egrets & Water Views

Lü Jiang gets its name from the white egrets that dance overhead. These elegant birds glide along the water, especially in early morning or late afternoon. Walk along the waterfront promenade on either side, and you’ll spot them framed against skyscrapers or colonial buildings. The river itself is calm, with reflections of bridges and lights at night. For a quieter moment, head to Baitui Beach nearby—a perfect spot to watch sunsets over Lü Jiang.

Cultural Charm: Bridges, Buildings, & History

Though small, Lü Jiang packs big history. The Yuyuan Bridge (built in 1926) arches gracefully over the water, linking Xiamen Island to Gulangyu. On the Xiamen side, old colonial mansions line the streets near the ferry, blending Chinese and Western styles. At night, lights from Zhongshan Road (a pedestrian street) spill into the river, creating a lively vibe. Don’t miss the musical fountain shows near the ferry terminal—a modern twist on traditional water culture.

Getting Around: Ferries & Footpaths

You can’t drive across Lü Jiang, so ferries rule here. Day or night, boats zip back and forth every few minutes. A single ticket costs just ¥35 (about $5) for a round trip. Once on either island, explore by foot! Xiamen’s side has wide, clean walkways, while Gulangyu’s lanes are narrow and car-free. Rent a bike (or take a rickshaw ride) to cover more ground.

Practical Tips: Eat, Shop, Rest

Around Lü Jiang, you’ll find plenty of street food stalls near the ferry—try oyster omelets or peanut soup. For souvenirs, browse the markets near Lujiang Bazaar. If you need a break, cozy cafes like Stella’s Coffee offer river views. Want a bird’s-eye view? Climb Folongji Rooftop (free) for photos of Lü Jiang framed by temple rooftops.

Experience: A Day in Lü Jiang

Start early on Xiamen Island: watch egrets at dawn, then take the ferry to Gulangyu. Spend the morning exploring the island’s vineyards and piano museum. Return to Lü Jiang by late afternoon. Grab lunch at a riverside restaurant, then stroll to Baitui Cannon Fort for sunset views. At night, catch the ferry back to Xiamen, where the lit-up skyline mirrors in Lü Jiang’s waves. It’s a day packed with contrasts—city buzz vs. island calm, all connected by this sliver of water.

Lü Jiang isn’t just a crossing point—it’s Xiamen’s heartbeat, where nature, history, and modern life flow together.