Xiamen travel guide and discussion

Ready to flex those wanderlust goals and dive into pure luxury? China’s got the glam game on lock, and these nine cities are bringing serious heat! If you’re all about high-end vibes and Insta-worthy scenes, here’s why you NEED to plan your next boujee adventure ASAP: 1. Shenzhen Tech capital vibes, and this city is totally serving looks! Shenzhen = non-stop shopping, next-level nightlife, and pure futuristic energy. Pro tip: Shop ‘til you drop at Coco Park (Fuhua 1st Road, Futian District; open daily 10:00-22:00) or stroll through glitzy OCT Harbour at sundown. Sleep? Not in this city, fam. 2. Guangzhou Home of the OG dim sum (sooo good!) and wild rooftop bars. Cruise the neon-lit Pearl River at night for epic vibes, then splurge at Luxetown malls in Tianhe district. Don’t miss the next-level view from Canton Tower (222 Yuejiang W Rd, Haizhu; open 9:00-22:00)—the neon cityscape at night is peak luxury! 3. Shanghai Glam central—no cap! The Bund at sunset will leave your jaw on the floor. The city lights here? Chef’s kiss 😘. Shop designer finds on Nanjing Road or slip into a mysterious speakeasy. Must-see: The Bund (Zhongshan East 1st Rd, Huangpu District; open 24/7). 4. Beijing Classic meets modern chic—luxury for DAYS. Wander through the Forbidden City (4 Jingshan Front St, Dongcheng; 8:30-17:00, closed Mondays), then get cozy in a super cute 5-star hutong hotel. Art zones and upscale malls = main character energy, always. 5. Hainan Paradise, delivered. Luxe beachfront resorts, palm trees, and infinity pools for days. Sanya Bay (Tianya District, Sanya; open 24/7) is your go-to for sandy snaps—warning: you won’t wanna leave! 6. Hangzhou Straight-up fairytale mode. Get lost at dreamy West Lake (Xihu District; open 24/7, boat rentals 8:00-17:00), then treat yourself at lakeside tea rooms and silk boutiques. Ultimate romantic getaway vibes incoming! 7. Chongqing Skyline views + fire hotpot = iconic. Book a fancy skyscraper hotel for unreal views, then go full foodie at Hongya Cave (186F Jiefangbei, Yuzhong; 10:00-22:00). The neon night scenes here? Mind-blowing 🤯. 8. Xiamen Beachy feels PLUS colonial chic. Chill on Gulangyu Island (Siming District; ferries 7:30-18:00), sip seafront cocktails, and hop Insta-friendly cafés all day. Total dream status! 9. Chengdu Panda paradise AND teahouse heaven. Luxe meets laid-back with stylish bars, chill teahouses, and late-night party spots. Don’t miss Kuanzhai Alley (127 Kuanxiangzi, Qingyang; 10:00-22:00) for the perfect pic—and YES, the spicy hotpot is everything. Ready to travel like an absolute VIP? Book your hotels and tap into these iconic Chinese cities—and their must-see hotspots—on trip.com for the hottest deals and pure glam getaways! So, which city is calling your name first? Drop your top pick in the comments! 💬👇

厦门的清晨,比想象中安静。 沿着老城街区慢慢走,骑楼、老建筑、街边店铺,还有骑车经过的当地人,一切都很生活化。 阳光从街道尽头慢慢照进来,老建筑的线条在晨光里显得特别清楚。 这里没有热门景点的人潮,却更能看到厦门原本的样子。 旅行有时候不一定要赶着去打卡。 早起走一段老街,看看一座城市刚刚醒来的样子,也是一种旅行。 早安,厦门。 #厦门旅行 #厦门老城 #厦门骑楼 #厦门CityWalk #旅行记录 #TripMoments

Zhangzhou is a city in Fujian Province that is perfect for those who love historic towns and local culture. Start by wandering through Zhangzhou Ancient City to admire its historic alleys, Minnan-style architecture, and local eateries. Then, head out of town to experience one of the region's most iconic highlights: the Fujian Tulou, massive Hakka earth buildings that come in both circular and rectangular shapes. 🏘️✨ The charm of Zhangzhou lies in its simplicity and a relaxed pace that hasn't yet been overwhelmed by mass tourism. You can explore the old town, sample authentic Fujianese cuisine, visit rural villages, and witness the local way of life. It’s the perfect destination for anyone wanting to see a different side of China, distinct from nearby Xiamen. 🤍

An old Bashi shop with tons of regulars! Classic Xiamen flavors, authentic Minnan taste~ You can order anything on the menu and you won't be disappointed 😋 ✅ Signature satay noodles I absolutely ❤️ this bowl of satay noodles! The broth is rich but not overly salty. The freshly brewed peanut aroma is strong; it's delicious even just drinking the soup on its own 😋 The toppings include 🦑 large shrimp, clams, and more—so fresh and delicious! ✅ Ginger duck The duck is cooked just right and isn't tough when you bite into it. Slow-simmered over low heat, it's super flavorful and gets better with every chew. If you can't finish it, you can get it packed to go; it's perfect with rice at home. ✅ Oyster omelet A very Minnan-style preparation! The oysters are quite large 🦪 The egg is pan-fried until fragrant, with crispy edges. Remember to dip it in Xiamen chili sauce; it really enhances the flavor.

Thrilled to snag a deal✨ Stay near the Twin Towers for just over 100, direct sea view, so stylish! Found a super surprising place to stay on my Xiamen trip 😭 120 💰, just over 100, right near the Twin Towers, facing the sea! The location is truly unbeatable ✅ Walking distance to the Twin Towers, very convenient for visiting popular landmarks. Close to the beach, perfect for evening strolls to feel the sea breeze and watch the sunset over the ocean 🌊 Plenty of food and convenience stores nearby, making shopping, dining, and getting around super easy. Open the curtains and you can see the blue ocean. Enjoy the blue sea and sky during the day, and the dazzling city night view at night. No need to crowd into popular observation decks; you can get stunning sea view photos right from your room. The room is clean and tidy, with all basic amenities provided. The value for money is unbeatable! Perfect for students, girls' trips, or short couple getaways. For those on a budget who still want to experience a Xiamen sea view, save your money for seafood and sightseeing—your happiness will double ✨ You can just follow this guide when you come to Xiamen!

Half vintage alleys, half lush greenery and flowers. Beyond the seaside filter, Xiamen is a gentle city hidden in the warmth of everyday life. Red-brick ancient houses hold stories of time Flowers in the streets and alleys heal all life's trivialities Authentic local flavors warm our daily routines Strolling slowly through the old alleys of Egret Island The wind blows through the leaves, peaceful year after year This is the tranquility and gentleness that belongs uniquely to Xiamen

A chill seaside city with beautiful photo spots, cute cafes, delicious food, and easy access – perfect for a short getaway if you want both beach views and an old city atmosphere ✨ 📍 4-Day, 3-Night Itinerary DAY 1: Arrive in Xiamen, check into hotel, stroll along Zhongshan Road pedestrian street and sample street food. DAY 2: Visit Gulangyu Island, admire European-style architecture, stroll along the beach and take photos at cafes. DAY 3: Visit Nanputuo Temple, explore Xiamen Botanical Garden, and stop for photos along the beach road. DAY 4: Shopping, buying souvenirs, and exploring more cafes before heading home. 🍜 Must-try food: Sacha noodles, Xiamen-style oyster pancakes, and peanut soup. 💡 Travel tip: Book your ferry tickets to Gulangyu Island in advance and wear comfortable walking shoes because there are tons of beautiful spots for photos! ✈️ Complete your trip in 4 days and 3 nights! Plan your trip, book flights and accommodation at Trip.com #Tripcom #TripcomTH #Xiamen #TravelChina #4Days3NightsChina #TravelChinaIndependently #ChinaTravelReview

#sunrisescenes The sunrise at Xiamen’s One Country, Two Systems Beach was next-level stunning—literally woke up at 5am and my brain went 🤯! I’m officially OBSESSED with Xiamen now… Like, who knew taking a random chance would lead to these magical morning vibes?! The whole beach was glowing in soft gold and pink, and I swear it looked unreal in person. Pro tip: The best spot for the sunrise is right on One Country, Two Systems Beach (No. 200, Huandao S Rd, Siming District, Xiamen), and trust me, it’s worth the early wake-up. The sky puts on a wild show from around 5:00 am, so set your alarms and get your phone ready for a jaw-dropping photo dump 🌅. Perfect for sunrise chasers and anyone who loves those peaceful, glowy seaside moments. If you’re in Xiamen, add this to your must-visit list! Thank me later 😉 Opening Hours: The beach is open 24/7, but sunrise hits different—just bring some snacks and a cozy sweater for the early morning breeze. #xiamen #xiamenmorningglow #xiamensunsetglow #morningglow #dawnat5am #howbeautifulthesunsetisbythtisbyth... #morningglow #eveningglowbytheseasideide #sunsetglowandeveningcloudsacloudsa... #isellsunrisesintheworldrld

A friend from out of town visited Xiamen last week and specifically asked for authentic seafood, while also wanting to experience the vibrant local atmosphere of Bashi Market. The first stop was Alian Seafood Processing, one of the seafood landmarks in Bashi Market. With an open kitchen and display, all kinds of live seafood in the tanks are clear at a glance, so you don't have to worry about freshness. We ordered a few dishes that locals eat most often: boiled shrimp, which were firm and sweet—the original flavor was excellent enough; the sea snails were uniform in size, the meat was firm and bouncy, and dipping them in a little garlic soy sauce was just right to enhance the flavor—I couldn't stop at just one; the razor clams were especially plump, and once the scallion oil was poured over, the aroma was incredible, and they were solid, bouncy, and tender when eaten, with no grit. The cooking heat and seasoning at this shop are very Minnan—not fancy but very satisfying. The portions for each dish are generous, and for a few friends, the cost per person was under 100, making it the kind of solid, reliable food stall you'd want to visit again. While waiting for the food, I went to the Zhuji Shredded Chicken next door and bought half a chicken. The numbing, savory flavor was just right, the meat was tender and not dry, and it was a great appetizer to pair with the seafood. After finishing the seafood, I stopped by Huiyuan Bakery on the way to pick up a few freshly fried breads. The crust was soft and the filling was rich; they still tasted like authentic, nostalgic Xiamen flavor for breakfast the next day. That's Bashi Market for you—it seems like a typical market, but it hides many small shops that locals visit again and again. Eating your way through the seafood, snacks, and pastries, you'll definitely impress your friends. If you're also looking for places that don't rely on influencer filters but speak for themselves with their taste, you can safely add these to your list.

A bit hard to find, but this place is truly stunning. At sunset, bubbles fill the air, and the setting sun dyes the island and peaks a warm orange—the orange-hued mountain and sea view is breathtaking! The 10-minute blue hour after the sun sets is even more stunning. The entire sky turns a cool, dusty blue. The suspended circular booths by the pool are also great for photos. Order a few Western-style snacks and pair them with a fruit wine. Feeling the mountain breeze and overlooking the mountain and sea sunset—it's just so relaxing. (Tips: I recommend arriving around 5:45 PM to catch both the sunset and the blue-hour night view. It's perfect for dates, small gatherings with friends, or group dinners.)

Location: Yanwu Bridge Observation Deck, Shapowei Date taken: November 7, 2025

To be honest, it wasn't really our first stop. Our actual first stop was Zhongshan Road and the Eighth Market. The place I least recommend is: Zhongshan Road: It's basically a commercial street, with souvenir shops everywhere. If you're specifically going to buy souvenirs, I think it's okay. If you're just going for sightseeing, I think it's pretty average. The food is also pretty average, mostly commercial shops. But one place had decent peanut soup. The Eighth Market: I really don't think it's worth going. If you're specifically going for seafood, the seafood is really fresh, but I didn't try it. I don't know the prices and I'm worried about overcharging. It's mostly seafood restaurants, not many local specialties or snacks. Baicheng Beach: It's incredibly comfortable to feel the sea breeze. Unfortunately, I didn't see the sunset today (the sunset was terrible). Even though it's not peak tourist season, it was still super crowded. Lots of people taking photos, but it depends on your photography skills. I didn't have anyone take photos; my friends did. But I think wearing flip-flops is more convenient. We didn't go swimming. So I didn't wear flip-flops. But if you want to take photos, you can still get great shots. We took the No. 22 bus around 5 PM. Unbelievable, the bus only costs 1 yuan! It really felt like it was free. So it depends on your needs. It takes about 40 minutes (due to traffic). The bus journey is long, and taxis also get stuck in traffic. It's better to choose the bus. If you want to see the sunrise, leave as early as possible. But the beach is generally very comfortable between 5 and 6 PM. That's all for today's recommendations and avoidance tips. One more thing: I found the hotel very comfortable. If you're planning to visit, I highly recommend it. It's also very close to Zhongshan Road/Eighth Market, basically in the city center area.

Had a meal on West Street in Quanzhou once and I still can't forget it 🥹🥹 Went straight to this old shop after visiting Kaiyuan Temple. The only downside: you have to queue! The signature ginger duck and shrimp and crab congee are all winners! It truly lives up to its reputation among the locals. The shop is small, and the menu is simple! The average cost per person is under 100. The seafood tastes super authentic. The owner loves creating new dishes. The pocket shrimp buns, baked ribs with pine nuts, and sweet and spicy chicken wings are so delicious 😭 I'm not kidding! It's located near the Shapowei Twin Towers (called 📍Dayuchuan). It's not far from Yue Temple, Kaiyuan Temple, West Street Bell Tower, Confucian Temple, and Chengtian Temple.

A Minnan restaurant recommended by a friend. I took the high-speed train specifically to eat here and visited Zengcuo'an while I was at it~ The spicy seafood platter is fresh, spicy, satisfying, and very generous. You can taste abalone, oysters, shrimp, crab, and clams all in one pot. No need to struggle with choices; it satisfies everything. The oyster omelet and hot fish soup are very authentic Minnan style! Pair them with the fragrant Minnan radish and taro savory rice (highly recommend this—I ate 2 bowls); you really must order the rice! The whole meal was pure happiness. Also, plenty of locals eat here, so it's not just a tourist trap~ The taste is really good. If you come to Xiamen, this culinary experience is definitely worth it!

Haha, their name is so auspicious—it's called Zheng Youcai! A very popular claypot seafood congee spot on Zhongshan Road. We didn't originally plan to eat here, but my friend insisted on trying it. The portions are generous, too—definitely enough for 2 people: Fresh shrimp, clam, and minced pork congee; claypot garlic pork belly; marinated clams; and blanched lettuce with oil—4 dishes in total. Honestly, it's a great value! 👍👍 Also, the seafood is fresh; the shrimp and clams have no fishy smell. The congee base is that kind of slow-simmered freshness, not just seasoning, so it passes the test! ✅ The claypot garlic pork belly and marinated clams were delicious!!! Especially the clams—they were very flavorful, slightly spicy, and paired perfectly with the congee. 😋 It's really not easy to find such affordable and delicious food on a popular tourist street, haha. Highly recommended!

Another hidden gem in the city! Andaz Shanghai Xujiahui recreates the Southeast Asian vintage charm of Andaz Xiamen, creating an immersive tropical‑retro dream amid the city's skyscrapers 🌿。 🏝️ Public areas deliver an instantly immersive atmosphere Step out of the elevator and you're instantly captivated. Rattan furnishings, vintage deep‑green tones paired with warm lighting blend Shanghai modernity with Southeast Asian retro style, and the details are exquisite — every corner is photo ready. 🛏️ Room experience Rooms feature panoramic floor‑to‑ceiling windows facing the Xujiahui skyline, and watching the city sunset at dusk is especially soothing. Rooms include a large desk, two wardrobes with ample storage, and a bathtub—after a busy day, a soak is a perfect way to relieve travel fatigue. 🍹 Hotel highlights The mirror‑accented, artful restaurant has a strong atmosphere and offers an elegant afternoon tea. There is also Andaz Hour, offering a variety of snacks and drinks. After 7:00 PM, there are women‑only signature cocktails, so you can sip while enjoying the sparkling city night views for a fully immersive experience. 📍 Location advantages The hotel sits in the heart of Xujiahui's core shopping district, with a large mall right downstairs, making dining and shopping very convenient. It's within walking distance of the Hengfu historic district and Wukang Road, perfect for checking in at the historic Western‑style houses beneath the plane trees. Whether it's a Shanghai staycation, travel to Shanghai from out of town, a trip with friends, or business travel, this place fits the bill.

I'm heading to Xiamen next week. As an outsider who knows nothing about the seafood market scene, I'm feeling a bit uneasy. I've gone through so many notes, and my biggest fear is getting ripped off or eating stale seafood at Bashi Market. I quickly put together a list and saved it—it's a cure for indecision and also serves as a report for my friends. First, for a proper meal, I'm locking in this seafood stall: Alian Seafood Processing (Bashi seafood landmark). It's a long-established spot highly recommended by my local Xiamen friends, who say it's been here for over a decade, so tourists can definitely feel at ease. I mainly like that their prices are clearly marked, and the owner is happy to teach you how to pick the seafood. The kitchen is completely transparent, so there's no worry about bait-and-switch tactics, which makes eating there much more reassuring. For ordering, get the fresh fish steamed—it's so tender it melts in your mouth, and you can really taste the natural sweetness. The sea snails are also great; use a toothpick to pick them out—they're crunchy, bouncy, and delicious. For snacking while walking around, I've planned for Zhong Lijun Manjiangao (Bashi branch). It's served piping hot, and when you bite into it, the filling is soft and chewy—sweet but not cloying, and very satisfying. For a drink, stop by Bapopo Grass Jelly (Bashi branch) to grab a cup. Sipping it with seafood is refreshing and helps cool you down. Finally, the top spot for snacks has to go to Zhenzhen Oyster Omelet (Kaiyuan Road branch). The oysters are plump, the edges are fried to a crispy, fragrant perfection, and dipping it in sweet chili sauce is just amazing.

While strolling along Zhongshan Road over the weekend, I was immediately drawn in by this unique storefront. The signature seafood satay noodles looked so tempting in the photos. The ingredients were a pleasant surprise. I don't think I've had squid this big all year; they were so plump, crisp, and tender. The octopus was fresh and bouncy. The shop is very generous with the ingredients; it feels even more substantial than a seafood food stall. I have to give a special shout-out to the small rock lobster. It was huge, and the meat was firm, fresh, and sweet. You can taste the freshness in one bite, and the roe was practically overflowing. I thought the seafood was only on the surface, but as I dug in, I found fresh shrimp and clams hidden in the broth. The ingredients are incredibly generous. The satay broth has a rich peanut aroma and an authentic flavor. You can find all the snacks in one stop here. I also tried the crab roe soup dumplings, handmade double-yolk rolls, and black gold matcha taro pastry. They have both sweet and savory snacks. I loved the two sweet fried items, and the selection is super extensive.

After living in Xiamen for more than 20 years, I only learned today that bo bing originated in Tongan. Is bo bing only practiced in southern Fujian? Edit 2: I thought it originated in Tongan because I found p2 in my search, but it seems I completely misunderstood. Thanks, everyone, for sharing!

Join us on a flight to check in at Gulangyu Island (鼓浪屿), Xiamen City, Fujian Province, China, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful and romantic islands on the southern coast of China. This resort town perfectly blends Victorian and Neoclassical architecture with a seaside lifestyle. In reality, it's vast, lush, with buildings in a pastel orange-brick color scheme, and every corner is incredibly photogenic – a perfect ten out of ten! It feels like you've stepped into a European trip! Top Photo Highlights (as pictured): · Victorian Mansion & Xiamen Sea View: The number one highlight and a world-class image! Hike to the top of the hill overlooking the bay and look down to see clusters of old buildings and domed structures with orange-red roofs peeking out from the lush green forest, interspersed with the turquoise water where ferries pass by. The grand skyline of Xiamen's skyscrapers stretches out before your eyes – a breathtaking and premium view that will captivate your gaze. Including stunning drone views of Palm Beach. · Minimalist Steep Alley & Pink Bougainvillea: A paradise for content creators! Stroll along the steep, stone-paved alleyway winding along the hillside, taking photos with the ancient red brick wall and the vibrant pink bougainvillea blooming against the backdrop of the banyan trees. Or, capture the perfect shot through the gaps in the golden yellow autumn leaves, catching a glimpse of the rowboats in the canal with their intricate carvings—a Japanese anime-inspired vibe that will make you feel good and want to save this location for your own photoshoot. · European Mansion Walking Street: Explore the stone alleyway and admire the ancient Sino-Portuguese style buildings. Stop for a local tea at a classic inn and see the white and red lighthouse in the middle of a rocky island in the water. The atmosphere is peaceful, relaxing, and incredibly beautiful. 💡 Tips for those planning to visit Gulangyu Island: 1. Recommended time: We recommend visiting on a sunny day with warm sunlight in the late morning or late afternoon. The sunlight will make the orange-red roofs and turquoise sea look their best in photos. 1. Cars are prohibited on the island, making it a safe and relaxing place to stroll around. 2. Planning: From Xiamen city center, a 20-minute ferry ride takes you to Gulangyu Island ferry terminal. It's recommended to plan and book your ferry tickets and boutique hotel in advance via the Trip.com app to secure your travel time and get the best deals and promotions. Don't forget comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking! #GulangyuIsland #XiamenTravel #XiamenWorldHeritage #EuropeanStyleBuildings #ChinaSeaside #UnseenChina #ChinaTravel

P1 Huangcuo Shizhoutou three coconut trees 🌴 P2 Calligraphy Square P3 Music Square P4, P10 Dihuazhou P5, P6 Jinshawan Hotel P7 Pangui Tower P8 Haiwan Park P9 Jiageng Park P11 Buzai Bookstore second floor lawn P12 Xitouxia P13, P14, P15 Wuyuan Bay Bridge Pier Sports Park P16, P17 Shanhai Trail Linhai Line P18 Ten-Mile Embankment

Old-school shops that locals frequent are the ones that truly won't disappoint 😭 I keep coming back to Huanhuan Satay Noodles again and again; every time I pass by, I can't help but stop in! 🍜 The seafood satay noodles are a must-order. The satay broth is rich and sweet, with a strong peanut aroma that isn't overwhelming. You can freely choose from a huge variety of toppings like fresh shrimp, oysters, pork liver, and clams; the seafood is all very fresh. The noodles soak up the broth—drink the soup first, then eat the noodles for an authentic Minnan flavor. 🥟 You must eat the soup dumplings while they're hot! The skin is thin and full of broth—be careful not to burn your mouth—and the savory flavor really stands out. They pair perfectly with the satay noodles. 🦪 The oyster omelet is generous with the oysters, pan-fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Dip it in sweet chili sauce for that full, nostalgic flavor—a must-try when visiting Xiamen. 🍲 The ginger duck is braised until tender and flavorful, with the aroma of old ginger infused into the meat. It's savory, warm, and not gamey at all. A bowl of satay noodles paired with a few snacks is perfect for a meal with friends. It's a great stop if you're visiting the Eighth Market; both tourists and locals love coming here.

If you're headed to Xiamen and want to stay in the city center, look here 😭 5-minute walk to the Bashi Seafood Market 🦞 10 minutes to Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street 1 minute downstairs to the popular Te Xiang Bao bakery 🥐 Convenient access to Xiamen University, Nanputuo Temple, and the ferry terminal Sightseeing and dining are completely hassle-free! High-ceiling duplex layout with split levels for maximum privacy ✅ Upper level is a cozy sleeping area with a soft, super comfortable bed Lower level is an open, airy living room with a sofa and coffee table Natural wood decor + warm lighting creates a great vibe, perfect for trips with friends/family ▪️Full set of disposable toiletries ▪️Front desk can provide earplugs and disposable toilet seat covers ▪️Detailed directions sent before check-in, so you won't get lost ▪️Large rooftop terrace! Enjoy the evening breeze and sunset 🌇 📍Location | Houtingya Lane, Siming District, Xiamen

📅 Nov 6 – Nov 10, 2025 5-Day/4-Night Trip to Chengdu I tagged along for my friend’s fan pursuit trip 💫 Prices in China are so affordable, and our hotel was in a perfect location with tons of space ꯁ.̮ꯁ While my friend was busy with their fan activities, I explored the city on my own. Since the hotel was right downtown and the area was bustling, I didn't feel even a hint of fear walking alone at night. The shopkeepers were so welcoming—even with the language barrier, they were happy to help using translation apps 🙂↕️ I had morning tickets for the Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, but I barely made it in before the cutoff and ended up exploring leisurely through the afternoon. I’d read reviews saying the pandas are usually napping and inactive in the afternoon, but I got lucky and saw them all moving around! ✨🐼 I also had a "fateful encounter" at a perfume shop I happened to wander into... I found a scent that is exactly my style, and I’m treasuring every drop 🕯️🍃 If you’re ever in Chengdu, you have to check it out!! — Expenses — Flight ✈️ Xiamen Airlines Round trip: ¥37,210 (Layover in Fuzhou) Hotel 📍 Hilton Garden Inn Chengdu Chunxi Road Center (Double occupancy) Approx. ¥8,000 per person/night 🎫 Giant Panda Breeding Research Base (Morning Ticket): ¥1,182 🚃 Transportation: Approx. ¥1,000 (Excluding taxis) 🍽️ Food: Approx. ¥7,500 🛍️ Miscellaneous: Approx. ¥7,000 👛 Charged 1,000 CNY (Approx. ¥23,000) to Wise → Used by linking the Wise card to Alipay. I spent about 700 CNY (Approx. ¥16,500) locally for everything from transport to shopping!

If I hadn't stumbled upon the trending topics, I really wouldn't have known about "Bo Bing" 😳 For Minnan people, celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival isn't just about eating mooncakes and watching the moon; it's about gathering together to roll dice, win prizes, and compete for the "Zhuangyuan" title. The 2026 Xiamen Mid-Autumn Tourism Carnival officially kicked off today (Sept 14). With the theme "Happy Mid-Autumn, Lucky Xiamen" and the slogan "Come to Xiamen, Win Good Luck," the gameplay has been upgraded—shifting from table-based Bo Bing to an immersive garden Bo Bing experience. What does that mean? It means you don't have to sit at a table anymore; you can play while you explore. There are various stations set up in the park. You roll the dice as you walk along, and whatever you win, you keep. There are also intangible cultural heritage folk performances and immersive tourism promotions nearby. By the end of the night, you'll have more prizes than you can carry. A friend of mine played it last year and came back saying it was even more addictive than visiting a temple fair. 🥮 What is Bo Bing? Outsiders might not get it. It's a unique Minnan Mid-Autumn custom, said to have originated during the time Zheng Chenggong stationed troops in Xiamen. People take turns rolling dice at a table, and based on the numbers, they earn titles like "Zhuangyuan" (Champion), "Bangyan" (Runner-up), and "Tanhua" (Third Place). Winners get corresponding prizes, and if you're lucky, you might even win the "Zhuangyuan Cake." It used to be a game for relatives sitting around a table at home, but now tourist attractions have turned entire parks into Bo Bing venues. The atmosphere is even livelier than during the Lunar New Year. 🎉 A month-long Mid-Autumn extravaganza. The carnival lasts for nearly a month, running from today through the National Day holiday. Besides Bo Bing, there are intangible cultural heritage folk performances, cultural and tourism markets, and immersive promotions. Watch the sea by day and play Bo Bing by night—your itinerary is all set. The 3-day Mid-Autumn holiday falls right in the middle of the carnival, so it'll be at its peak. 🎐 I've also scouted the best photo spots for you. Once the lanterns in the Bo Bing park light up, the atmosphere is incredible. For sunset by the sea, head to Huandao Road; the stretch from Yefengzhai to the Convention Center is perfect for photos no matter where you snap. Bring a friend who's good at taking photos, and you'll have enough content to post on social media for a month. 🍜 Eat your way through Xiamen while you're at it. Xiamen's autumn weather is just right—not too hot, not too cold. The alleys of Gulangyu, the sea breeze on Huandao Road, satay noodles, and oyster omelet are all on the must-try list 😋. Don't miss the ginger duck and peanut worm jelly either. The Mid-Autumn holiday is short, so remember to book your flights and hotels early. You can win prizes until your hands are full, but don't let your wallet get too empty 🙋

On this trip to Xiamen, I stumbled upon a newly opened hotel, and the experience completely exceeded my expectations. I’ve definitely found a hidden gem! 📍Location & Transport The hotel is in the heart of Xiamen Island, and the location is truly convenient. It's not far from the subway and BRT, making travel stress-free. It's a short taxi ride to Zhongshan Road, Bashi, and beach attractions, and there are plenty of restaurants downstairs, so you don't have to go far to find food. ✨Hotel Hardware & Environment The advantage of a new hotel is that everything is brand new and clean. The overall decor is minimalist and high-end. The public areas, like the lobby and hallways, are very photogenic and have a great atmosphere. 🛏Room Details The first thing I noticed when I opened the door was how clean and bright the room was—no pungent smell of new renovations. The whole room is smart-controlled. You can use voice commands for the lights and curtains, and the bathroom has a dry/wet separation design. The bedding is soft and relaxing, and the soundproofing is great. It was quiet at night, and I wasn't disturbed by hallway noise. 💁Service Experience Check-in and check-out at the front desk were fast, with no long waits. The staff were warm and polite. They offer free luggage storage, and they were very responsive to any feedback. The whole experience was comfortable. 🍜Breakfast & Dining The breakfast offers a mix of Chinese and Western options with a wide variety. I specifically tried the local Minnan snacks, like satay noodles and vermicelli soup. They tasted authentic, and having a warm bowl in the morning was very satisfying. It's perfect for couples, friends, and anyone on a short trip to Xiamen. The new hotel offers great value, so I recommend considering it for your next trip.

You really don't need to wander around looking for food when traveling to Xiamen! I've dug up a hidden gem that locals keep to themselves✨. Unlock authentic Minnan flavors all in one stop—get your fill of satay noodles + specialty snacks at once! The broth for their satay noodles is made with real care! Pure peanuts are fried and then hand-ground, and it's slow-cooked for a full 5 hours. Every bite is genuinely fresh and sweet, and the noodles are coated in rich, flavorful broth—so delicious! 🍮 Black gold matcha taro pastry The crust is crispy and flaky, and it bursts with a molten center when you break it open! Dense, smooth, handmade taro paste mixed with the fresh aroma of matcha—the balance of bitter and sweet is just right. Chewy and not cloying, sweet but not overpowering. Matcha lovers and taro lovers will be instantly hooked. 🥚 Double yolk roll The ingredients are super generous; they don't skimp on anything.

They use fresh seafood, and it's especially delicious paired with the satay broth. Everything is cooked to order! Every bite is so satisfying. And they have all kinds of snacks too!!! They also have taro crispy duck, and they've released a matcha molten taro pastry that's super delicious too 🤤 The texture is incredibly rich~ 📍 Sixiawei Satay Noodles (Sibei Branch)