Location & Transportation
Qunxian Building Group sits at the heart of Xiamen University, nestled between the iconic Nanputuo Temple and the lush Wulaofeng (Five Old Men Peak). The address is No. 422 Siming South Road, Siming District, Fujian Province—easy to find if you’re exploring southern Xiamen. To get there, take Bus 87, 96, or 751 to Xiamen University’s main gate, then walk straight along Siming South Road. Alternatively, hop on a shared bike and pedal through the campus’s tree-lined paths. The buildings are just a short stroll from the South Gate, near the bustling Lumar Street food stalls.
Natural Scenery: Mountains & Open Spaces
What makes Qunxian Building Group special? It’s tucked under the green slopes of Wulaofeng, with five colonial-style buildings standing in a neat row on the historic Yanwu Field (a drill ground used in the 19th century). The area feels peaceful, surrounded by palm trees and wide lawns. Early mornings are magical here—locals practice tai chi, and the mountain mist rolls down like a blanket. For photographers, the contrast between the red-roofed buildings and the forested hills is Instagram-worthy!
Cultural & Historical Vibes
These buildings aren’t just pretty—they’re Xiamen University’s “grandparents.” Built in 1921, Qunxian Building Group was the first group of structures on campus. Walk inside, and you’ll see vintage arched windows, wooden floors, and walls that whisper old stories. Fun fact: The first political organization (a Communist party branch) in Xiamen University started right here, in Langying Lou (Tadpole Drum Tower). Even today, some rooms serve as exhibition spaces, showing black-and-white photos of students from the 1920s.
Exploring the Buildings
The five buildings in Qunxian Group line up like soldiers, each with its own role. The central one is the oldest, while others house offices or small museums. Don’t miss the stone staircases leading up to them—carved from granite, they’re worn smooth by generations of feet. Inside, look for details like iron-wrought balconies and ceiling fans from another era. Students still use some buildings for classes, so you might catch a glimpse of their life!
Nearby Attractions & Accessibility
Qunxian Building Group isn’t a standalone spot—it’s part of a bigger adventure. Right behind it, Nanputuo Temple offers incense-free tranquility (check temple hours). Walk 10 minutes east, and you’ll hit Xiamen University’s lakeside paths. The campus is huge but flat, so comfy shoes are enough. For snacks, the nearby Lvzhu Academy has affordable tea drinks, or head to Lumar Street for oyster omelets and coconut milk.
Tips for Visitors
• Best Time to Visit: Morning light is perfect for photos, and afternoons are quieter once tour groups leave.
• Etiquette: Some buildings are offices, so stick to public areas. Noise can echo, so keep conversations hushed.
• Hidden Gem: Look for the small garden behind the buildings, where locals read books under banyan trees.
A Day in Qunxian Building Group
Start your visit at Nanputuo Temple for spiritual vibes, then walk downhill to Qunxian Building Group. Spend an hour wandering the buildings and Yanwu Field. Next, grab lunch at a campus cafe, then loop around Xiamen University’s lakes (like Fenghuang Lake) to see turtles and dragon boats. End your day on Lumar Street, where street food vendors light up after sunset.
Qunxian Building Group isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about soaking in history, nature, and the youthful energy of China’s top university. Whether you’re into architecture, hiking, or cultural deep dives, this spot has layers to uncover. Pro tip: Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and snap the best shots!