Geographic Location

Tan Kah Kee Memorial Scenic Spot - Jimei Aoyuan sits in the heart of Jimei District, Xiamen, Fujian Province. The address is No. 24, Aoyuan Road, Jimei District. This spot is part of the larger Jimei School Village, a collection of educational institutions founded by the renowned overseas Chinese leader Tan Kah Kee. What makes Aoyuan unique? It’s built on a small island that resembles a sea turtle (“ao” means turtle in Chinese), surrounded by water on three sides. Even the name “Aoyuan” (Turtle Garden) comes from its natural shape!

Transportation Tips

Getting here is easy! Take Bus 929 or 959 to the Jimei School Village stop. From there, it’s a short walk to Aoyuan. If you’re coming from Xiamen Island, the BRT rapid bus (Line 1) drops you near Jimei Tower, a 15-minute taxi ride away. For a scenic route, take the Xiamen Metro Line 1 to Jiage Station and bike the rest of the way—the area is very bike-friendly!

Natural Scenery

The island’s turtle-like shape is its biggest natural highlight. Walk along the stone bridges connecting the island to the mainland, and you’ll feel like you’re stepping onto the back of a giant turtle. The water around Aoyuan is calm and clear, reflecting the sky and nearby buildings. Lush greenery covers the island, with palm trees and flowering shrubs adding pops of color. On a sunny day, the combination of blue water, green plants, and white stone buildings makes for postcard-worthy views.

Cultural Highlights

This place is packed with history! Start at the Aoyue Palace (also called Thousand-Mile Palace), a small temple destroyed during the Japanese invasion in World War II. After the war, Tan Kah Kee rebuilt it as part of Aoyuan. Today, the garden includes:

  • The Memorial Archway: A grand stone entrance honoring local heroes.
  • The Jimei Liberation Monument: A towering structure celebrating the region’s liberation in 1949.
  • Tan Kah Kee’s Tomb: A serene final resting place for the man who shaped modern Jimei.

But the real star is the stone carvings! These aren’t just statues—they’re masterpieces of Fujian stone art. You’ll see figures with lifelike expressions: joy, anger, sadness, and laughter are carved with incredible detail. Some sculptures even show dynamic scenes like people working or celebrating festivals. It’s like a storybook carved in rock!

Visitor Facilities

Aoyuan is very tourist-friendly. A clear map at the entrance shows key spots. Clean restrooms and shaded rest areas with benches let you take breaks. English-friendly signs explain historical details, though having a guide (offered at the visitor center) adds depth. The paths are flat and wide, so it’s wheelchair accessible. Nearby, food stalls sell snacks like oyster omelets and tea drinks—perfect for a quick bite!

Exploration Experience

Visiting Aoyuan feels like stepping into a blend of nature and culture. Start by walking the stone bridge to the island, then follow the winding paths past carvings. At the central plaza, kids love posing with the giant stone turtle statues. History buffs will appreciate the exhibits about Tan Kah Kee’s life in the memorial hall. Don’t miss the sunset view—the monument glows orange in the evening light, and the water reflects the colors. Plan for 2-3 hours to explore everything without rushing.

Whether you’re into history, art, or just beautiful spots, Tan Kah Kee Memorial Scenic Spot - Jimei Aoyuan offers a unique slice of Xiamen’s soul. Bring good walking shoes, a camera, and curiosity—this place rewards both close-up admiration and quiet reflection!