Location & How to Get There

The Site Of The First-Class Xiamen Post Office Of The Imperial Qing sits right across from Xiamen Ferry Terminal, a stone’s throw away from the bustling waterfront. Look for a vintage red-brick building at 58 Hailu Road in Siming District—it’s easy to spot between a cute colonial-style villa and a towering glass skyscraper. To reach it, take the ferry to Xiamen Island (if you’re coming from Gulangyu Island) or hop on buses 11, 21, or 872, which drop you near the terminal. It’s also super walkable if you’re exploring nearby attractions like Gulangyu Ferry or Zhongshan Road.

Natural Scenery: Old vs. New

This spot isn’t about mountains or beaches, but the contrast between old and new Xiamen is fascinating. One side of the post office faces a calm sea with ferries chugging by, while the other side overlooks busy Haili Road, where modern malls and cafes buzz. At sunset, the light catches the red bricks and nearby palm trees, making it a perfect photo spot. You’ll also see locals strolling along the esplanade, especially in the evening when the air cools down.

History & Culture: A Time-Traveler’s Delight

The Site Of The First-Class Xiamen Post Office Of The Imperial Qing dates back to the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912), when it was a key hub for mail across Southeast China. Now, it’s a working post office (locals call it “Haihou Postal Branch”), but step inside and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The wooden counters, vintage stamps, and faded signage still show its former glory. Fun fact: This was one of the first “first-class” post offices in China, meaning it handled international mail! Today, it’s a protected historic site, so you can explore without worrying about it disappearing.

What’s Inside: A Living Museum

Inside, you’ll find two sides: the old section with original features (think high ceilings, tile floors, and antique mailboxes) and the modern section with regular postal services. Don’t miss the display case with Qing-era stamps and old postcards—they even have a replica of a 19th-century uniform worn by staff! If you’re into details, check the walls for plaques explaining the building’s history. It’s like a mini-museum that’s free to explore.

Practical Tips: Food, Rest, and More

After visiting, grab a snack at the food stalls near the ferry terminal. Try oyster omelets (huai jian) or shaved ice (bian dan jian)—both are Xiamen specialties. For drinks, head to the nearby Lüjiang Hotel rooftop bar for views of the post office and coastline. If you need a rest, there are benches along the waterfront or shaded spots in the nearby Zhongshan Park. The area is very tourist-friendly, with clean restrooms and English-speaking staff at the post office.

Best Experience: Photos and Stories

For photos, stand on the ferry terminal steps and frame the post office between the sea and skyscrapers—it’s Xiamen’s “old meets new” symbol. Locals love chatting about the building’s history, so ask a staff member or nearby shop owner for stories (they might share tales of Qing officials or old mailing routes!). Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds, or come at night when the building lights up softly against the dark water.

Bonus: Mail a Postcard from the Past

Here’s a fun idea: Buy a postcard at the Site Of The First-Class Xiamen Post Office Of The Imperial Qing and mail it to friends or family. The stamps are classic, and the experience feels straight out of a history book. Just don’t forget to write your address in Chinese characters if you want the local postal system to deliver it!

Whether you’re into history, architecture, or just snapping cool pics, this spot offers a glimpse into Xiamen’s layered past—and it’s right in the heart of the city. Happy exploring!