Location & Transport

Xiamen City Museum is nestled in a unique historical building called the “Eight Trigrams Tower” on Tiyu Road, Siming District. While the main campus of Xiamen University dominates the nearby area, this museum stands out with its iconic red-domed roof shaped like a traditional Chinese brocade umbrella. To get here, you can take Bus 87 or 320 and hop off at the Tiyu Lu stop—it’s an easy walk from there. If you’re coming from Gulangyu Island (where the museum’s original building is located), a short ferry ride connects the two areas.

Natural Scenery

The museum’s exterior blends art and nature seamlessly. The Eight Trigrams Tower, built in 1907, looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. Its circular red roof is covered in ceramic tiles that shimmer under sunlight, while the surrounding gardens are filled with palm trees and flower beds. Even the air feels a bit cooler here, thanks to the shade of ancient banyan trees. At sunset, the tower’s silhouette against the sky makes for a perfect photo—don’t forget to snap one!

Cultural Highlights

Step inside Xiamen City Museum, and you’ll dive into stories of Xiamen’s past and present. The building itself is a star: originally owned by Lin Heshou (a relative of the famous Lin Erjia, who built Gulangyu’s Shuzhuang Garden), it’s nicknamed the “Eight Trigrams Tower” because its design mirrors the Chinese symbol for balance.

Inside, five themed galleries await:

  • “Xiamen History” traces the city’s growth from Tang Dynasty trade hub to modern metropolis.
  • “Special Economic Zone” showcases photos and artifacts from Xiamen’s transformation since the 1980s.
  • “Sports Stars” celebrates local athletes, with medals and even a replica of a racing bike!
  • “Ceramics & Jade” displays delicate vases and carved pendants from across Chinese history.
  • “Ancient Weapons” (a permanent exhibit from the China Military Museum) includes everything from stone axes to Ming Dynasty cannons.

A personal favorite? The model of Zheng He’s treasure ship—imagine sailing through storms in that massive wooden vessel!

Facilities for Visitors

The museum is very visitor-friendly. You’ll find:

  • Free admission (just show your ID or passport).
  • English-language signs and audio guides (ask at the front desk).
  • A small gift shop selling postcards and handicrafts.
  • Clean restrooms and a cozy lounge area with free water.

Note: The museum closes on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly!

Tour Experience Tips

Visiting Xiamen City Museum feels like flipping through a living history book. Start at the weapons exhibit—it’s thrilling to see a Qing Dynasty sword next to a Revolutionary-era rifle. Then head to the sports section, where kids will love posing with replicas of Olympic torches.

For history buffs, the “Xiamen History” gallery uses maps and old photos to explain how the city survived pirate attacks and foreign occupations. Don’t miss the model of Gulangyu in the 19th century—it’s tiny but packed with detail.

If you’re hungry afterward, walk 10 minutes to Nannputuo Temple for vegetarian meals or check out the food stalls near Xiamen University’s main gate.

Why It’s Worth a Visit

Xiamen City Museum isn’t just about looking at old things—it’s about understanding why Xiamen matters. The mix of ancient artifacts, modern stories, and quirky exhibits (like a 1980s moped used by local delivery drivers) makes it fun for everyone. Whether you’re a history lover, a photography enthusiast, or a family looking for a cool half-day trip, this spot has something for you. Plus, the Eight Trigrams Tower alone is worth a visit—it’s one of Xiamen’s most recognizable landmarks!

Pro tip: Come early or late afternoon to avoid crowds. And if you’re into architecture, combine your visit with a stroll to nearby Fujian Provincial Museum for more historic buildings.