Location & How to Get There

Meihai Ridge sits in the heart of Xiamen’s Siming District, nestled within the Eastern Ping Mountain range. It’s part of the city’s Bougainvillea Garden (officially called the “Xiamen City Flower Park”) on the south side. To reach this colorful spot:

  • By car: Drive to Xiada Street in Siming District. The park has a small parking lot, but weekdays are less crowded.
  • By bus: Take buses 26, 45, or 88 to “Hulishan Fortress” and walk 15 minutes uphill.
  • On foot: It’s a 30-minute hike from Wuyuan Bay if you’re feeling active!

Natural Beauty: A Sea of Bougainvillea

Meihai Ridge is famous for its explosion of bougainvillea flowers, which blanket the hills in pink, purple, and red from November to June. Over 400,000 plants cover the slopes, creating a “flower ocean” (想象一下一片花的海洋！). The best views? Head to the stone-paved paths and wooden观景台 (viewing platforms) for photos with pink clouds and fiery red blooms.

Fun fact: These flowers are Xiamen’s city symbol! Locals call them “triangle mei” (三角梅), and they’re everywhere here.

Cultural Touches: Gardens & Design

Beyond the flowers, Meihai Ridge blends nature with clever design. Stone bridges, traditional pavilions, and winding steps make it feel like a Chinese painting. You’ll spot:

  • Flower-themed sculptures: Perfect for Instagram!
  • Poem plaques: One says, “With its vibrant blooms, it’s like a sea of flowers that paints the whole city in bright colors”—a nod to how these flowers brighten Xiamen.
  • Local art displays: Near the entrance, check out paintings of Xiamen’s landscapes.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

  • Sunscreen and hats: It’s sunny up here, even on cloudy days!
  • Comfortable shoes: The paths are hilly, so wear grippy sneakers.
  • Water and snacks: There’s a small shop, but prices are higher.
  • Camera gear: Morning light (7–9 AM) makes the flowers glow!

Facilities for Visitors

  • Parking: Limited, so arrive early or use public transport.
  • Rest areas: Shaded benches and gazebos dot the routes.
  • Toilets: Clean public restrooms are available near the main path.
  • Accessibility: Some slopes are steep, but key viewpoints are wheelchair-friendly.

Why Visit? A Unique Xiamen Experience

Meihai Ridge isn’t just a park—it’s Xiamen’s “secret garden.” Unlike busy spots like Gulangyu Island, it’s peaceful and feels like a local hideaway. Spend 2–3 hours wandering, then grab lunch at nearby Yudang Lara (曾厝垵) for seafood or snacks.

Pro tip: Come on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and catch the flowers at their freshest!