🌴 1. Gulangyu Island
Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture, piano museums, and cliff-top views from Sunlight Rock (Riguang Yan). Stroll cobblestone lanes and visit Shuzhuang Garden’s seaside pavilions.
Tip: Book ferries early via WeChat/Alipay; arrive by 7 AM for crowd-free photos.
🏯 2. Nanputuo Temple
A 1,000-year-old Buddhist sanctuary offering free incense. Climb Wulao Peak for panoramic city-and-sea views, then savor legendary vegetarian cuisine at its onsite restaurant.
🎓 3. Xiamen University (XMU)
China’s “most beautiful campus” blends Chinese-Western architecture. Walk around Furong Lake, explore the graffiti-covered Furong Tunnel, and soak in ocean vistas from the hillside.
Note: Book free entry 1–3 days ahead via official WeChat mini-program.
🌊 4. Huandao Road (Island Ring Road)
Cycle or drive this 23-km coastal route. Stop at Baicheng Beach for city-skyline photos, Huangcuo Beach for sunrise, and Zengcuoan for bohemian vibes.
Rent bikes: ¥20–50/hour near beaches.
🏡 5. Zengcuoan Fishing Village
A transformed artsy enclave with coral-stone houses, indie cafes, and street food. Try oyster omelets (¥15) and peanut soup (¥8) at night markets.
⛩️ 6. Jimei School Village
Admire “Dragon Boat Pond” surrounded by traditional Overseas Chinese architecture. Visit Chen Jiageng Memorial Hall to learn about this historic academic complex.
🌵 7. Xiamen Botanical Garden
Wander through desert zones with giant cacti and tropical rainforests with misty waterfalls. Ride the cable car to Wanshi Botanical Garden for skyline views.
🏖️ 8. Baicheng Beach
Swim or relax near Xiamen University with views of Twin Towers (Shuangzi Ta). Ideal for sunset photography when tides mirror the skyscrapers.
🏞️ 9. Huli Mountain Fort
Historic 19th-century coastal defense site featuring the world’s largest Krupp cannon. Walk the cliffside path to Zengcuoan.
🌉 10. Shapowei Art Zone
Trendy district with mural-covered alleys, design studios, and seafood eateries in converted warehouses. Try shacha noodles (¥20) at vintage cafes.
📌 Essential Tips for Travelers
- Best seasons: March–May (mild weather) or September–November (dry/sunny).
- Food must-tries: Satay noodles (沙茶面), oyster omelets (海蛎煎), tusundong (sea worm jelly).
- Avoid scams: Reject “free tea ceremonies” near temples; use Didi (via Alipay) for taxis.
