Location & Transportation

Nestled on Gulangyu Island, the Old Xiamen Story Museum sits at No. 38 Huangyan Road, Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian Province. To get there, take a ferry from Xiamen Mainland to Gulangyu Island (ferries run frequently from Xiamen Ferry Terminal). Once on the island, it’s a short walk or bike ride—just follow the signs and winding lanes, enjoying the colonial-era architecture along the way. The museum is easy to spot: look for a charming old villa with lush gardens!

Natural Charm & Surroundings

Gulangyu Island itself is a car-free oasis, so you’ll explore the area by foot or rent a bike. The Old Xiamen Story Museum blends into this serene environment. Its front yard features ancient stone carvings and shady trees, while the side courtyard offers a cool, quiet escape under the banyan trees. It’s the perfect spot to pause and soak in the island’s relaxed vibe.

Cultural Treasures & History

The Old Xiamen Story Museum isn’t just a museum—it’s a time capsule of Xiamen’s past! Housed in two restored colonial-era villas, it showcases centuries of local history. The front villa is dedicated to exhibits: you’ll find teahouses, old banks, classical study rooms, and even a theatrical stage. Highlights include imperial exam records (like ancient “top scholar” lists) and currency from the Song Dynasty, which spark stories about Gulangyu’s colonial-era trade.

Fun fact: The museum was originally a bank building and later transformed by its Taiwanese owner, Hong Mingzhang, who collected many pieces from local families. His passion for preserving Xiamen’s heritage really shines through!

Unique Accommodation & Extras

The back villa is now a boutique hotel with vintage flair. Think antique furniture, wooden floors, and windows overlooking the garden—it’s like sleeping in a living museum! Even if you’re not staying, the hotel’s courtyard is open to visitors, making it a great spot for photos.

Adjacent to the museum, you’ll find art shops and local tea houses, where you can sip Xiamen’s famous Oolong tea while chatting with friendly owners.

Interactive Experiences

At the Old Xiamen Story Museum, history comes alive! You can try traditional tea-making in a replica teahouse, imagine banking in the old vault, or browse ancient textbooks in the mock schoolroom. Guides (if available) often share tales of Gulangyu’s colonial past, linking random finds like coins or pottery to broader stories of trade and culture. It’s like walking through a novel about Xiamen!

Tips for Your Visit

  • Best time to go: Mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds.
  • Photo ops: The front courtyard’s stone carvings and the back villa’s balcony are super Instagram-friendly.
  • Combine with: Nearby sights like Sunlight Rock or the Piano Museum make for a full Gulangyu day trip.

Whether you’re a history buff or just love quirky spots, the Old Xiamen Story Museum offers a deep dive into Xiamen’s soul—all within a beautifully preserved villa. Don’t miss it!