Location & Transportation

Xiamen Botanical Garden, home to the stunning Norfolk Pine Grassland, sits in the Siming District of Xiamen, just a stone’s throw from buzzing Zhongshan Road and a short ferry ride from Gulangyu Island. To get there, take Bus 87 or 35 (jump off at Huyuan Lu Station), or hop on the metro to Zengcuan Station (Line 1) for a 10-minute walk. If you’d rather ride, taxis or bike rentals (via apps like Didi or Mobike) drop you right at the entrance gate.

Natural Wonders: The Norfolk Pine Grassland

The heart of the garden is the Norfolk Pine Grassland—a sprawling lawn dotted with towering Norfolk pines that look straight out of a Dr. Seuss book! These massive trees, some over 40 meters tall, create dappled shade perfect for picnics or Instagram-worthy photos. On weekdays, it’s a peaceful escape, but weekends bring locals lounging on blankets, kids chasing kites, and couples snapping selfies under the “cathedral” of pines.

Beyond the pines, wander trails lined with palm trees, ferns, and exotic blooms. The tropical rainforest zone mimics a jungle, while the bonsai garden showcases tiny masterpieces. Seasonal highlights? Spring’s cherry blossoms, summer’s jasmine scent, and winter’s warm sun (since Xiamen’s winter is mild).

Cultural Touches

Don’t miss the Chinese Pavilion near the grassland—a traditional red-and-gold roofed spot where elders play mahjong, and artists sketch landscapes. The garden also hosts lantern festivals (check their events page!) and a orchid exhibition house celebrating Xiamen’s island heritage. Even the layout blends Qingdao-style slopes with modern landscaping, making it feel both wild and curated.

Practical Tips

  • Tickets: ¥30/person (cash or mobile payments), kids under 1.2m free.
  • Hours: Open daily at 6:30 AM (go early to beat crowds!), closes at 6 PM.
  • Food & Rest: Grab coffee at the garden café, rent a locker for ¥10, or buy snacks from vendors. Clean restrooms and free Wi-Fi hotspots are scattered throughout.

Ultimate Experience

Start your day at Norfolk Pine Grassland—arrive by 8 AM to catch morning light filtering through the pines. Stalker the mischievous parrots that nest here (they love squawking at visitors!), then lose an hour in the bamboo maze nearby. By noon, grab lunch at the garden restaurant (try the Mi Fan Yu Hua—rice with edible flowers!). End with a sunset stroll along the waterfront lotus pond, where pink blooms reflect in the glassy lake.

Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes (the garden is hilly!), pack layers for humidity, and bring mosquito repellent for evening visits. Whether you’re a plant nerd or just seeking zen, Xiamen Botanical Garden (and its iconic Norfolk Pine Grassland) is a must-visit Xiamen gem.