Location & Transportation

Xiamen University sits in the heart of Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian Province. The address is No. 422 Siming South Road—easy to find on maps or navigation apps. To get there, take Xiamen’s Metro Line 1 and hop off at South Shapo Station (Shapo South Station). From there, it’s a 10-minute walk (or a quick bike ride) to the campus entrance. Buses like 21路, 45路, and 87路 also drop you near the school. If you’re coming from the airport, a taxi or ride-hailing app like DiDi will get you there in 30 minutes.

Pro tip: The campus has multiple gates, but Simeng Gate (by Nanputuo Temple) and Baijia Village Gate (near the coast) are the most popular for visitors. Rent a shared bike (wecycle or Mobike) to explore—it’s cheap, fun, and lets you cover more ground!

Natural Scenery: A Campus Straddling Mountains & Sea

Xiamen University isn’t just a school—it’s a lush oasis hugging the coast. Imagine rolling hills covered in tropical plants, coconut palms swaying in the sea breeze, and a glimpse of the ocean beyond the campus edges. Here’s what you can’t miss:

  • Furong Lake (Lotus Lake): A tranquil spot with swans and black-necked geese. Walk along the paved paths, snap photos of the arched bridges, or relax on benches by the water. At sunset, the lake lights up with golden hues—perfect for Instagram!
  • Lover’s Valley: A tiny, hidden valley with a cascading waterfall and moss-covered rocks. It’s super romantic (hence the name) and feels like a mini jungle.
  • Subtropical Gardens: Wander through banyan trees, flowering bushes, and ancient-looking plants that give the campus its “China’s Most Beautiful Campus” title.

Cultural Highlights: Architecture & History

Xiamen University was founded in 1921 by Tan Kah Kee, a wealthy overseas Chinese who donated his fortune to education. The campus blends old-world charm with modern vibes. Must-see spots:

  • Jiannan Auditorium: A red-roofed, palace-like building that looks straight out of a movie. It’s where students watch performances and ceremonies.
  • Songen Building: The university’s iconic administrative hub with traditional Chinese rooftops and sleek white walls.
  • Tan Kah Kee Memorial: A bronze statue of the founder near the main gate. Read plaques about his life—he built this campus to inspire youth!
  • Ancient-Style Dorms: Some student housing still uses red bricks and wooden beams, transporting you back to the 1920s.

Fun fact: The campus mixes Southern Fujian architecture (common in overseas Chinese hometowns) with colonial-era designs. It’s like a living museum!

Practical Tips: Food, Rest, & More

Even non-students can enjoy Xiamen University’s amenities:

  • Cafeterias: Try Canteen 3 (near Furong Lake) for cheap, tasty meals like stir-fried noodles or steamed buns. Students eat here, so prices are friendly.
  • Cafés & Shops: Robin’s Bar (a rooftop cafe with ocean views) and Feng Huang Flower House (for tea and snacks) are great for breaks.
  • Libraries & Museums: The Museum of the History of Xiamen University showcases Tan Kah Kee’s legacy. Note: The main library is mostly for students, but you can admire its grand staircase from outside.

Bring sunscreen, comfy shoes, and a hat—you’ll be walking a lot!

Tour Experience: How to Enjoy Xiamen University

Visiting Xiamen University feels like stepping into a living postcard. Here’s how to make the most of it:

  1. Go early: Arrive by 8:30 AM to beat crowds and catch morning light on the lake.
  2. Mix nature & culture: Alternate between photo ops (lake, valley, coast) and historical spots (statues, old buildings).
  3. Talk to students: They’re proud of their campus and might share fun facts or recommend hidden gems.
  4. Combine with nearby attractions: Afterward, walk to **Nanput