Location & Transportation

Yanping Tower sits in the heart of Jimei School Village, Xiamen, Fujian Province. The exact address is No. 27 Aoyu Road, Jimei District—a place steeped in history and natural beauty. To get here, take a taxi or bus to Aoyu Road; it’s a short walk from the main entrance of Jimei School Village. If you’re coming from downtown Xiamen, it’s about a 30-minute drive.

Natural Scenery

The area around Yanping Tower is a blend of hills and sea. You’ll see rolling green slopes leading down to the coast, with views of the Taiwan Strait in the distance. What makes it unique? The tower is built on a hillside, so you’ll climb granite steps (24 levels!) to reach the top. At the base, there’s a seaside pool called Yanping Pool, surrounded by rocks and palm trees. It’s a perfect spot for photos, especially at sunset when the light reflects off the water.

Cultural Heritage

Yanping Tower isn’t just a pretty building—it’s packed with history. In 1919, a Chinese educator named Tan Kah Kee (Chen Jiageng) built this school to honor Zheng Success (Queen’s Note: Zheng Chenggong), a national hero who fought for China. The name “Yanping” comes from Zheng’s nickname, Lord Yanping.

During World War II, the original tower was destroyed by Japanese bombs. But Tan rebuilt it in 1953, using local granite rocks to create terraced steps that double as a poolside spectator area. Nearby, a giant rock carved with the words “Yanping Gulei” (Queen’s Note: “Ancient Fortress of Yanping”) marks the site of an old fort.

Interesting Architecture

The tower itself is a three-story building with a mix of Chinese and Western styles. What’s cool? The terraced design! Tan used the hill’s slope to build three wide levels made of granite. These steps lead down to Yanping Pool, making it feel like a natural amphitheater. Whether you’re swimming or just relaxing, the view of the sea and sky is stunning.

Facilities for Visitors

Yanping Tower isn’t just for looking—there’s plenty to do! The seaside pool (Yanping Pool) is open for swimming, though check the tides first. There’s also a stone-carved gate nearby with historical engravings. If you’re hungry, head to the Jimei School Village area for local snacks or cafes. Pro tip: Visit on a clear day for the best photos of the tower and ocean.

Exploring the Experience

Visiting Yanping Tower feels like stepping back in time. Start by climbing the granite steps—they’re steep but worth it for the view. At the top, you’ll see the tower and the pool below, framed by palm trees. Don’t miss the carved rock by the entrance with “Yanping Gulei”—it’s a nod to the area’s military past.

For a full day, combine your visit with other Jimei attractions like Aoyu Temple or the Mighty Hail Statue. Bring comfy shoes, sunscreen, and a camera—you’ll want to capture the mix of nature, history, and architecture that makes Yanping Tower special.

Whether you’re into history, photography, or just relaxing by the sea, Yanping Tower offers a little bit of everything. And who knows? You might even feel inspired by the same spirit of determination that built this place!