Discover Off-the-Beaten-Path Wonders Near Xiamen Tired of crowded tourist spots in Xiamen? Venture beyond the city’s bustling beaches and landmarks to explore hidden gems that showcase southern Fujian’s rich history, nature, and culture. While Gulangyu Island and Nanputuo Temple deserve their fame, nearby destinations like Quanzhou, Zhangzhou, and Longhai offer a more authentic, laid-back experience. Let’s dive into some lesser-known yet equally captivating spots perfect for travelers seeking tranquility and local charm.
What Hidden Gems Lie Near Xiamen?
Start your journey in Quanzhou, once a hub of the ancient Maritime Silk Road. Wander through Cai Village, a centuries-old fishing community with colorful wooden houses on stilts. Take a boat ride at sunset to see traditional fishermen’s huts reflected in the water—a scene straight out of a painting. For a spiritual escape, visit Qingyuan Mountain, where serene temples and lush forests offer hiking trails with few tourists. Don’t miss Luoyang Bridge, the oldest extant stone bridge in China, dating back to the Song Dynasty.
How to Explore Ancient Quanzhou’s Silk Road Heritage
Quanzhou’s Kaiyuan Temple, built in AD 686, is a window into Fujian’s Buddhist history. Its intricate carvings and towering pagoda contrast with the modern street outside. Nearby, West Street (Xijiu Lu) feels like stepping back in time, with cobblestone paths and Ming-era buildings housing tea shops and herbal medicine stalls. For a unique souvenir, browse Tianhou Palace, dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu, and pick up handcrafted pottery or silk tapestries from local artisans.
Where Can I Find Pristine Nature Near Xiamen?
Head to Zhangzhou for Volcano Island (Chazi Island), home to China’s only coastal volcano. Hike to the summit for views of rugged lava formations and emerald lakes. The island’s Yanyan Lake offers kayaking and photo-worthy reflections of towering cliffs. In Longhai, the Yongding Tulou cluster—a UNESCO site—features otherworldly earthen architecture. Stay overnight in a restored tulou guesthouse to experience Hakka culture firsthand.
What Unique Cultural Experiences Await in Jimei?
Just 30 minutes from Xiamen, Jimei District blends僑乡 (overseas Chinese hometown) charm with modern art. Visit Dagao Bei Fort, a coastal defense relic, and stroll along Longjuan Road, lined with colonial-era villas. The Jimei School Village, founded by overseas Chinese philanthropists, is a nostalgic campus with red-roofed buildings and a museum dedicated to the region’s overseas migration history. End your day at Baisha Beach, where you can watch fishing boats return at dusk.
Any Lesser-Known Culinary Delights Around Xiamen?
Fujian’s food scene extends far beyond seafood. In Quanzhou, savor roujin paigu (beef soup with herbal jelly) at family-run eateries like Hong Zai Lai. In Zhangzhou, try qing cao gao (mugwort rice cake) during spring festivals. For a rural feast, join a tulou banquet in Yongding—think steamed river fish, mountain mushrooms, and sticky rice wine. Vegetarians will love Nanputuo’s tofu delicacies, while street markets in Jimei serve snacks like shacha noodles (tea-infused stir-fries).
Getting Around: Use Xiamen BRT or budget-friendly buses to reach nearby cities. For Volcano Island, take a 2-hour ferry from Xiamen’s Pedestrian Street Ferry Terminal. Renting a car is ideal for exploring Tulou clusters and mountain villages.
Pro Tip: Pair your trip with a visit to Huashan Fortress in Zhangzhou or Bailey Villas in Jimei for Instagram-worthy shots. Whether you’re drawn to history, nature, or culinary adventures, Xiamen’s backyard has something for every deep-diving traveler.