Exploring the Centennial Ancient Trees of Gulangyu

The picturesque Gulangyu Island is home to a variety of exotic flowers and lush greenery, among which stand ancient and famous trees. These trees are witnesses to the vicissitudes of history and carry the indelible memories of generations of Xiamen residents... Xiao Gu takes everyone closer to several ancient and famous trees on Gulangyu Island Toppled to create a spectacle, it springs back to life Species: Banyan Tree Age: 307 Location: In front of the Gulangyu Cadre Sanatorium In September 2016, Typhoon Meranti struck Xiamen, devastating many trees on Gulangyu Island. One ancient banyan, over 300 years old, happened to fall right in the middle of the road, about 2 meters above the ground. As it did not greatly affect pedestrian traffic, the authorities decided to protect it on site, allowing the fallen banyan to grow horizontally and become an 'archway' on the road. Today, this ancient banyan has been rejuvenated and has become a popular photo spot on Gulangyu Island, with tourists from all over the country marveling at the tree's resilience. Rooted in the Piano Island, welcoming guests with a smile Species: Banyan Tree Age: 237 Location: Piano Wharf Walking on Gulangyu, each ancient tree creates its own scenery, complementing the charming natural landscape and diverse architectural views. The trees are landmarks for both residents and tourists visiting Gulangyu. No matter the season or weather, they are always lush and verdant, with canopies like open green umbrellas, providing shade and coolness for visitors from all directions. This ancient banyan has witnessed the island's development and Xiamen's rise, as well as the tremendous changes in the lives of its people. 'Shengzi Tree Foot' - a meeting place just for you Species: Mango Tree Age: 187 Location: Near the old villa at 14 Yongchun Road The mango tree near the old villa at 14 Yongchun Road is a third-class ancient tree with a trunk diameter of over 1 meter. For the old residents of Gulangyu, the phrase 'Shengzi Tree Foot' is a well-known meeting spot. Although this tree is 187 years old, it is still thriving with a lush canopy! Slim and refreshing, they are 'stars' Species: Screw Pine Age: 112 Location: Huang Rongyuan Hall The lemon trees, eucalyptus trees, and winter jasmine around the central water pond in the courtyard of Huang Rongyuan Hall, along with various low shrubs, decorate the courtyard elegantly. However, what catches the eye are the two screw pines in front of the main gate. These two screw pines were among the first to be introduced to the mainland and are also some of the tallest, making them 'star' trees of Gulangyu. They were planted by the owner of the house more than a hundred years ago when the villa was built. The two ancient trees have stood side by side, passing the long years together. Standing tall on the island, embracing each other In the Xiamen Overseas Chinese Subtropical Plant Introduction Garden, there are two Caribbean Acacia trees that were introduced in the early 1960s. Currently, they stand nearly 30 meters tall and are among the tallest plants on Gulangyu Island, as well as the tallest Caribbean Acacia trees in the country. It is said that at night, the leaves of the Acacia trees close up and embrace each other like a couple reuniting, similar to the way the leaves of the sensitive plant react to touch. The ancient and famous trees continue the memory of the era Shuzhuang Garden, Haoyue Garden, Guanhai Garden... In the gardens, the green trees provide shade and allow for listening to the waves, strolling, stopping, climbing, and going down to the sea It's indeed a great place to enjoy spring Hurry and bring your family and friends to the ancient trees of Gulangyu to listen to the stories behind them