Geographical Location
Minnan Ancient Town sits in the Huli District of Xiamen, just a 15-minute drive from Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport. Tucked away in the Xianglu Community off Changle Road, this hidden gem feels worlds away from the city’s hustle. Surrounded by gentle hills and a stone’s throw from the coastal breeze, it’s the perfect mix of nature and culture.
How to Get There
Reaching Minnan Ancient Town is a breeze! Take Bus 81 or Bus 91 to the Xianglu Community stop, and you’ll spot the town’s iconic red-arched entrance. If you’re driving, punch “No. 400, Changle Road” into your GPS—free parking is available near the main gate. For a fun ride, hop on the Xiamen Metro Line 1 to Dianqian Station, then walk 20 minutes through local neighborhoods.
Natural Scenery
Nestled between low mountains and a tranquil lake, Minnan Ancient Town feels like a step back in time. Wander along cobblestone paths lined with banyan trees, and you’ll catch glimpses of the nearby Wutong Mountain through the foliage. The town’s heart is a small lotus pond where pink blooms light up summer mornings. It’s peaceful enough for a quiet stroll but lively enough to keep kids entertained.
Cultural Highlights
This isn’t just any old town—it’s a living museum of Minnan culture. Traditional red-brick houses with horse-gable roofs line the streets, and local artisans sell handmade pottery and wood carvings right out of their workshops. Don’t miss the South Fujian Opera House, where performers wear glittering costumes and sing stories about ancient legends. On weekends, the town square hosts lion dances and shadow puppet shows—perfect for snapping photos or joining in the fun!
Food & Drinks
Hungry? Minnan Ancient Town is a foodie’s paradise. Start with Sanduo Ah Mee (sauteed noodles with seafood), a Xiamen specialty, at the stalls near the east gate. For dessert, grab a bowl of Lima Red Bean Soup (sweet red bean soup) from the century-old shop on Maple Street. Thirsy? The teahouse by the lotus pond serves Gongfu Tea—a ritual where you sip tiny cups of jasmine or Tieguanyin while learning about tea traditions.
Stay & Services
Tired? Crash at one of the town’s boutique inns, like the Maple Courtyard Guesthouse, which offers rooms with wooden beams and private balconies overlooking the rooftops. For quick bites or souvenirs, the Long Street Market has everything from silk scarves to hand-painted fans. There’s even a bicycle rental shop if you want to explore farther—try riding to the nearby Wuyuan Bay for ocean views!
What to Expect
Visiting Minnan Ancient Town feels like stepping into a time machine. You’ll hear elders chatting in Hokkien dialect, see cats lounging on stone门槛 (thresholds), and smell incense wafting from the Chenghuang Temple. Bring comfy shoes—the town’s narrow lanes are made for wandering. At night, lanterns glow along the canals, and street vendors fire up grills for night market snacks. It’s less crowded than touristy Gulangyu Island but equally enchanting.
Whether you’re a history buff, food lover, or Instagram addict, Minnan Ancient Town has something for everyone. Just remember: the best moments here are the unplanned ones—like chatting with a tea master or watching a grandma spin yarn on an antique wheel. Come curious, and you’ll leave with stories (and photos) to spare!