From Music Island to the Most Beautiful University Campus

In the gentle embrace of the southeast coast, Xiamen, a city caressed by the sea breeze, has become a sanctuary for countless travelers with its unique charm, long history, and stunning natural scenery. Today, let's embark on a visual and spiritual feast, exploring the top 10 must-visit places in Xiamen that will leave you breathless. Each place is a whisper of time and a gift of nature. Gulangyu Island: A Romantic Encounter on Music Island Gulangyu Island, a car-free island, is like a small boat slowly sailing from the past, tranquil and beautiful. It is located in the southwest corner of Xiamen Island, separated from the city by the sea, yet it feels like two different worlds. Strolling through the winding alleys, you will find colorful European-style buildings and lush tropical plants on both sides, with the sound of piano music occasionally drifting into your ears, making you feel as if you are in a European town. Gulangyu Island is not only known for its picturesque natural scenery but also for its rich musical culture, earning it the nickname "Music Island." Nanputuo Temple: A Spiritual Retreat with a Long-lasting Zen Atmosphere Located at the foot of Wulao Peak, Nanputuo Temple is a famous Buddhist sanctuary in Xiamen and a peaceful haven in the bustling city. The temple is surrounded by ancient trees, with incense smoke rising and the sound of bells echoing, making you forget the troubles of the world. Nanputuo Temple is not only known for its simple and elegant architectural style but also for its integration of Minnan culture and Buddhist art, making it an ideal place to experience religious culture and seek inner peace. Island Ring Road: A Cycling Paradise with Sea Breeze Island Ring Road is a golden coastline in Xiamen, stretching about 43 kilometers with picturesque scenery along the way, making it a paradise for cycling enthusiasts. Whether it's the first ray of sunshine in the morning or the sunset glow in the evening, you can find the most beautiful scenery here. Riding a bicycle, feeling the sea breeze, and weaving through the coconut-shaded coastline, you can experience the unique slow-paced life of Xiamen. Xiamen University: A Garden Secret in the Academic World Known as "the most beautiful university in China," Xiamen University not only has a strong academic atmosphere but also boasts a stunning campus environment. By Furong Lake, egrets fly; in Lovers' Valley, greenery abounds. Walking along the tree-lined paths on campus, you feel as if you have traveled back to the youthful days. Xiamen University is not only open to the public but also a must-visit stop for tourists in Xiamen, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of nature while exploring the ocean of knowledge. Zengcuo'an: A Dreamy Village for Artistic Youth Zengcuo'an, a small fishing village full of artistic atmosphere, has now transformed into a gathering place for artistic youth. It retains a large number of traditional Minnan buildings while incorporating modern artistic elements, with each small shop and wall painting exuding unique personality and creativity. Walking on the stone-paved roads of Zengcuo'an, tasting authentic seafood snacks, and feeling the strong artistic atmosphere, you feel as if you have entered a colorful dream world. Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street: A Perfect Blend of History and Modernity Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street is one of the most bustling commercial streets in Xiamen and a witness to the city's history. This street was built in the third year of the Republic of China and has a history of nearly a hundred years. The buildings along the street are mostly in the Nanyang style, with arcades and colorful facades. Here, you can buy a variety of specialty products, taste authentic Minnan snacks, and feel the perfect blend of Xiamen's historical heritage and modern vitality. Shapowei: A Fishing Port Style in the City Shapowei, located in Siming District, Xiamen, is an old neighborhood full of fishing port style. It was once an important shelter for Xiamen Port, and although it has gradually transformed into an artistic and leisure area, it still retains many memories of old Xiamen. Strolling through Shapowei, you can see the harbor with fishing boats moored, taste fresh seafood, and feel the simplicity and tranquility of old Xiamen. Jimei School Village: A Shining Pearl of Jimei Culture Jimei School Village is a group of schools founded by the famous patriotic overseas Chinese, Mr. Tan Kah Kee, including Xiamen University, Jimei Middle School, Jimei Primary School, and more. The architectural style here is unique, blending the essence of Chinese and Western cultures, and it carries the profound Jimei culture. Walking into Jimei School Village feels like entering a hall full of academic atmosphere and cultural heritage, making you admire this great educator. Sunlight Rock: The Highest Point of Gulangyu Island, Overlooking the City Sunlight Rock is the highest peak of Gulangyu Island and one of its iconic attractions. Standing on Sunlight Rock, you can overlook the entire Gulangyu Island and the beautiful scenery of Xiamen City, with a wide view. Along the way to the top, the cliff carvings and ancient relics are breathtaking. Climbing Sunlight Rock is not only a physical ascent but also a spiritual baptism. Wuyuan Bay: The Green Lung of the City, the Beauty of Ecology Wuyuan Bay, located in the northeast of Xiamen Island, is the largest wetland ecological park in Xiamen. It has a vast lake, beautiful coastline, and rich natural ecological resources, making it a great place for Xiamen residents to relax and get close to nature. Wuyuan Bay is not only known for its picturesque scenery but also for its unique "Five Affinities" culture (Heavenly Affinity, Earthly Affinity, Human Affinity, Cultural Affinity, and Green Affinity). Walking on the wooden boardwalks of Wuyuan Bay, you will find lush trees and colorful flowers on both sides, with fresh air filling your lungs, making you feel refreshed. On the lake, egrets soar, and occasionally a few water birds skim the surface, creating ripples. In the distance, the yacht marina is lined with various yachts, showcasing the vitality and fashion of Xiamen, a coastal city. Wuyuan Bay is not only rich in natural landscapes but also in cultural landscapes. The bay area has several cultural exhibition halls and art centers, regularly hosting various art exhibitions and cultural activities, attracting many cultural enthusiasts and artists to exchange and create. Here, you can experience Xiamen's cultural heritage and artistic atmosphere up close, giving your soul a profound baptism. In addition, Wuyuan Bay is an ideal choice for family trips. The bay area has several children's play areas and family activity venues, such as children's parks and family farms, allowing children to gain knowledge and experience the fun of nature and life while playing. Parents can also find a peaceful place here to enjoy warm moments with their families. Xiamen, this beautiful coastal city, attracts countless travelers with its unique geographical location, profound cultural history, and stunning natural scenery. The romance of Gulangyu Island, the Zen atmosphere of Nanputuo Temple, the cycling fun of Island Ring Road, the academic atmosphere of Xiamen University, the artistic vibe of Zengcuo'an, the bustling Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street, the fishing port style of Shapowei, the Jimei culture of Jimei School Village, the panoramic view from Sunlight Rock, and the ecological beauty of Wuyuan Bay are the top 10 highlights of Xiamen tourism that you cannot miss. You must visit Xiamen once in your lifetime and let these breathtaking places become one of the most precious memories of your life.