Location & Transportation

Shuzhuang Garden sits on Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Xiamen, Fujian Province. The exact address is No. 7, Ganghou Road, Siming District, just a 10-minute walk from the Gulangyu Ferry Terminal. To get there, take the ferry from Xiamen Island to Gulangyu (ferries run every 20 minutes), then follow the crowds toward Sunlight Rock and turn left onto Ganghou Road. The garden’s entrance is easy to spot, with traditional Chinese gates and lanterns.

Natural Scenery: A Blend of Rocks, Sea, and Sky

Shuzhuang Garden is divided into two parts: Bu Shan Yuan (“Hill Supplement Garden”) and Cang Hai Yuan (“Sea Hiding Garden”).

  • Bu Shan Yuan focuses on man-made landscapes. The highlight is the Twelve Cave Heavens, a maze of 12 rock chambers shaped like animal zodiac signs. Climb, crouch, and laugh your way through holes designed like dragons, tigers, and rabbits—perfect for families with kids!
  • Cang Hai Yuan lives up to its name. Walk through a moon-shaped archway, and suddenly the cobalt blue sea bursts into view! The Forty-Four Bridge here offers postcard-worthy sunsets. On clear days, you can see Xiamen Island in the distance.

Cultural Charm: History and Architecture

Built in 1913 by Taiwanese merchant Lin Erjia, Shuzhuang Garden reflects his nostalgia for home. The name combines his pseudonym “Shuzang” (叔臧) with a clever twist.

  • Wander through pavilions with traditional wooden carvings and rooftops covered in green tiles.
  • Don’t miss the Piano Museum inside Listening to Waves Pavilion. It houses rare instruments from across Asia, and live performances happen every 30 minutes—a treat for music lovers!

Practical Tips: What to Bring

  • Comfortable shoes: The garden has hills, bridges, and steps.
  • Sunscreen and hats: Shade is limited, especially near the sea.
  • Snacks and water: No food stalls are inside, but there’s a small café near the exit.
  • Camera: The views from Forty-Four Bridge and the Twelve Cave Heavens are Instagram-worthy!

Visitor Experience: A Hidden Gem

Shuzhuang Garden feels calmer than Gulangyu’s busier spots. Spend 1–2 hours exploring:

  • Morning: Fewer crowds, soft light for photos.
  • Afternoon: Catch the piano concerts (check timings online) and watch the sun set over the water.
  • Fun fact: The garden’s layout symbolizes “borrowing scenery”—using natural and man-made elements to create harmony.

Whether you love nature, history, or just relaxing with ocean views, Shuzhuang Garden is a must-visit on Gulangyu. Pair it with nearby attractions like Sunlight Rock and Nahan Temple for a full day of adventure!