Location & How to Get There

Xiamen Underwater World sits on Longtou Road, Gulangyu Island (just west of the ferry terminal), making it super easy to reach. If you’re arriving in Xiamen, take the ferry from Xiamen Port to Gulangyu Island—it’s a 20-minute ride with stunning views. Once on the island, walk straight toward the waterfront, and you’ll spot the blue-roofed building right next to the ferry dock.

Natural Wonders Inside

The moment you step into Xiamen Underwater World, you’ll feel like you’re diving into a blue crystal palace! This isn’t just a metaphor—the museum’s design really does look like a giant, sparkling ocean gem. What makes it special? It’s home to China’s most complete fish collection, with over 350 species swimming in tanks that mimic coral reefs, deep seas, and even icy polar waters.

The underwater tunnel is a highlight. As you walk through the glass-walled corridor, sharks, rays, and schools of tropical fish swim overhead. Kids (and adults!) love pointing out colorful clownfish, sneaky octopuses, and the occasional sea turtle gliding by.

Unique Human-Made Attractions

Beyond live fish, Xiamen Underwater World showcases some seriously cool human-made exhibits. The whale skeleton hall steals the show: a 18.6-meter-long, 48-ton sperm whale skeleton hangs overhead, looking almost life-size. It’s one of the best-preserved large whale specimens in the world, and a must-see for science buffs.

Another quirky favorite? The penguin house! These chilly creatures waddle and swim in a recreated Antarctic scene, complete with fake icebergs. Nearby, the freshwater fish gallery introduces river species like massive Chinese sturgeon and tiny, glowing neon tetras.

Shows & Interactive Fun

For a break from walking, grab a seat at the sea lion show! These playful creatures flip, dance, and even crack jokes (okay, maybe the jokes are just humans’ imagination). Shows run every hour, so time your visit to catch them.

Families with kids will love the touch pools, where you can gently rub a sea star or feel a piece of live coral. Just remember: touch with two fingers, and no picking—staff remind everyone to be gentle!

Practical Tips

Xiamen Underwater World is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and tickets cost around 100 RMB (about $14). Allocate 2–3 hours to explore everything without rushing. Combine your visit with a stroll around Gulangyu’s beaches or historic villas—the island’s compact size makes it easy to multitask.

If you get hungry, there’s a small café inside serving snacks and cold drinks. Pro tip: Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds, especially during holidays when Gulangyu gets packed.

Why It’s Worth It

Even if you’ve seen aquariums before, Xiamen Underwater World stands out. The mix of rare marine species, interactive exhibits, and that jaw-dropping whale skeleton makes it a memorable stop. Plus, the location near the ferry dock means you can easily pair it with a day of island hopping. Dive in—you won’t regret it!