Location & How to Get There

Oriental Fishbone Art Gallery is tucked away in a quiet alley at No. 27 Gǔxīn Road, Siming District, Xiamen. It’s a short walk from the lively Zhongshan Road area, near the bustling Gulangyu Ferry Terminal. If you’re coming from Xiamen North Railway Station, take Bus 31 or Bus 19A and hop off at Binlan Dujia—the gallery is just a 10-minute stroll from there. For a scenic route, ride a shared bike along the coastal Lunyu Road and turn into the charming old streets of Gǔlàngyú. The address might sound tricky, but locals are friendly—just ask for “Yúgū Yìshùguǎn” (鱼骨艺术馆)!

Natural Charm Around the Area

Though the gallery itself is indoors, its location is packed with Xiamen’s laid-back vibes. The neighborhood mixes traditional red-brick houses with tropical greenery. A few steps away, you’ll find old banyan trees offering shade and street-side cafes where you can grab a drink. The area feels like a mini version of Xiamen’s famous Gulangyu Island—less crowded but equally charming. On weekends, locals sell street snacks like oyster omelets and peanut soup nearby, so your visit doubles as a taste adventure!

Oriental Fishbone Art Gallery isn’t just a museum—it’s a celebration of creativity! Founded in 2006 by artist Lin Hanbing (nicknamed Yuèhé), it’s the first-ever museum dedicated to fishbone art worldwide. Here’s the twist: all the artworks use fishbones as the main material.

The process? Imagine this: fishbones are cleaned, dried, and treated through 12 steps (like removing smells and mold resistance) before becoming canvases. The final pieces look like hyper-realistic paintings—you’ll swear they’re photos! Some even hide clever jokes, like fishbones arranged to look like famous landmarks (think Eiffel Tower made of bones). If you’re lucky, you might meet Lin or his team working on new pieces—they love chatting with visitors!

What to Expect Inside

The gallery is small but packed with wow moments. Highlights include:

  • Life-sized fishbone sculptures: Think birds, flowers, or even mythical creatures.
  • Interactive displays: Learn how fishbones are sorted by size and shape.
  • DIY corners: Try making a tiny fishbone art souvenir (perfect for kids!) for a small fee.

Most works are grouped by theme—nature scenes, animals, and abstract art. Don’t miss the “Underwater World” room, where fishbones recreate coral reefs and ocean life. Even the lighting is designed to highlight the bones’ natural textures.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

  • Opening hours: Daily 9:30 AM–6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM).
  • Tickets: Around 50 RMB (~$7 USD), cheaper if you book online.
  • Photo rules: No flash photography, but snap all you want otherwise—the art looks amazing on cameras!
  • Language: English signs are limited, but staff speak basic English. Download the “Xiamen Smart Tourism” app for real-time translations.
  • Tours: Free guided tours run every hour in Chinese; ask for an English handout if needed.

Extra Fun: Nearby Attractions

After visiting, walk 10 minutes to Nanputuo Temple for Zen vibes or grab lunch at Shaowu Lane, a foodie heaven. For beach lovers, Wutiao Xi (Five-Tiao Street) offers golden sand and sunset views. Combine your trip with a visit to Gulangyu Island—the ferry dock is a 15-minute ride away!

Why It’s Worth a Detour

Oriental Fishbone Art Gallery proves art can be both quirky and mind-blowing. It’s perfect for families, art lovers, or anyone who enjoys offbeat culture. Bring your curiosity—and maybe a magnifying glass to spot hidden details! Whether you’re into eco-art or just want to gawk at fishbone dragons, this spot will leave you saying, “I’ve never seen anything like this!”

(Psst: The gift shop sells mini fishbone art kits—great for souvenirs!)