Location & How to Get There

Nestled on Gulangyu Island (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Ningyuan Tower sits at 70 Quanzhou Road, Siming District, Xiamen. To reach this hidden gem, first take a ferry from Xiamen Island to Gulangyu (ferries run frequently from Xiamen International Cruise Center). Once on the island, it’s a 15-minute walk or a quick bike ride—just follow signs toward Sunlight Rock or Shuzhuang Garden, and you’ll stumble upon this peaceful spot.

Natural Charm: A Breath of Coastal Air

Ningyuan Tower isn’t just about history—it’s also a coastal escape. Surrounded by red-tiled roofs, flaming-red hibiscus trees, and the gentle hum of ocean waves, the area feels like a step back in time. Nearby, phoenix trees cast dappled shade, and a small garden behind the tower offers views of Gulangyu’s rocky shoreline. For a quiet moment, sit on the stone steps and listen to the sea breeze rustling the leaves—it’s the perfect antidote to bustling city life.

Cultural Heart: A Scientist’s Legacy

This isn’t just any old house—it’s the childhood home of Professor Lu Jiaxi, a trailblazing Chinese scientist. Inside Ningyuan Tower, you’ll find exhibits showing his journey from Gulangyu to becoming President of Fuzhou University and President of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Expect handwritten notes, vintage lab equipment, and photos of him mentoring students. The name “Ningyuan” (meaning tranquility and long-term vision) reflects his philosophy, blending traditional Chinese wisdom with modern science.

Architecture: Where East Meets West

The building itself is a beauty. Built in the 1920s, it mixes Fujian-style rooftops with colonial-era arches and shuttered windows. Step inside, and you’ll see wooden carved doors, ceramic tile floors, and a courtyard where Lu’s family once gathered. It’s like a mini museum of Gulangyu’s history—the island was a melting pot of Chinese and Western cultures, and this house captures that spirit.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

  • Entrance: Free (donations welcome).
  • Hours: Open daily until late afternoon.
  • Extras: Guided tours (in Chinese, but ask for English handouts).
  • Pair with: Walk to Sunlight Rock (10-minute hike) or grab bubble tea at the nearby Yongli Canteen.

Why Visit? A Slow-Paced Adventure

Unlike crowded spots like Zhongshan Road, Ningyuan Tower feels intimate. Wander through the quiet lanes of Gulangyu, pop into the tower for a dose of history, then relax on a nearby beach. Pro tip: Go on a weekday morning to avoid crowds. And don’t rush—this is a place to savor, just like the island’s namesake “melodic waves”.

Whether you’re into science stories, old-world architecture, or simply soaking up sea views, Ningyuan Tower is a Gulangyu must-see. Happy exploring!