Xiamen

Must-Visit Attractions 1. Gulangyu Island (Ferry ticket from ¥35) Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage Site, International Architecture Museum, perfect blend of art and history Things to Do: - Sunlight Rock (¥50): Summit for panoramic views of Gulangyu; visit at dawn/dusk to avoid crowds. - Shuzhuang Garden (¥30): Unique fusion of Jiangnan-style garden and ocean views; don’t miss the Piano Museum. - Longtou Road Food Street: Try local snacks like Ye’s Mochi, Shen’s Rice Noodle Rolls, and Lin’s Fish Balls. - International Architecture Cluster (Free): Stroll to photo spots like Bishan Cave and the “Most Beautiful Corner.” 2. Xiamen University (Free, reservation required) Highlights: One of China’s most beautiful campuses, featuring Furong Lake, Furong Tunnel graffiti, and Lover’s Valley. Tips: - Enter via the side gate near Nanputuo Temple to skip main gate queues. - Furong Tunnel is ideal for sunset photos with vibrant youth-themed murals. 3. Nanputuo Temple (Free) Highlights: Fujian’s Buddhist sanctuary, backed by Wulao Peak; famous vegetarian cuisine. Tips: - Visit at 6 AM for serene morning prayers before tour groups arrive. - Hike halfway up Wulao Peak for a stunning view of XMU and the Twin Towers. 4. Zengcuo’an (Free) Highlights: Artsy fishing village turned food hub with lively nightlife. Tips: - Go after 4 PM for fewer crowds; try Yazhong Snack Shop’s sea worm jelly and Ah Toast’s thick toast. - Rent bikes at night to ride along Huandao Road—spot bioluminescent “blue tears.” 5. Huandao Road (Free) Highlights: 43-km coastal promenade, perfect for cycling/sunset walks. Route: Rent shared bikes (scan Alipay) from XMU White Beach → Zengcuo’an → Music Square → Huangcuo Beach. 6. Xiamen Botanical Garden (¥30) Highlights: Tropical rainforest mist (9:30–11:30 AM/2:30–4:30 PM) and giant cactus zone. Tip: Enter via West Gate; head straight to Rainforest World and Succulent Zone for dreamy photos. Hidden Gems: 1. Shapowei (Free): Hipster district in a transformed fishing port; visit at dusk for Shinto-style SAKE NOMI BAR. 2. Jimei School Village (Free): Tan Kah Kee-style architecture; take Metro Line 1’s “sea track” (Spirited Away vibes). 3. Huangcuo Beach (Free): Secluded sunrise spot—arrive by 5 AM for the horizon view. Food Guide: 1. Satay Noodles: Wutang Satay (iconic) or Sili Satay (locals’ pick). 2. Oyster Omelet: Lianhuan Oyster Omelet (crispy outside, tender inside). 3. Sea Worm Jelly: Yazhong Snack Shop (best with mustard sauce). 4. Ginger Duck: Haodelai’s fall-off-the-bone ginger-infused duck. 5. Bashi Seafood Market: Fresh buys like Ajie Wuxiang and Yousheng Satay Noodles. Itinerary Tips: Classic 3-Day: Day 1: Gulangyu → Zhongshan Road. Day 2: Nanputuo → XMU → Shapowei → Zengcuo’an. Day 3: Huandao Road cycling → Jimei. In-Depth 5-Day: Days 1–2: Gulangyu (stay overnight for tranquil mornings). Day 3: XMU → Nanputuo → Shapowei. Day 4: Huandao Road → Huangcuo Beach → Zengcuo’an night market. Day 5: Jimei → Sea Metro ride. Practical Notes: - Ferries: Book Gulangyu tickets 15 days early via “Xiamen Ferry+” (Xiamen International → Sanqiutian Pier). - Transport: Buses (¥1), metro/BRT cover key spots; use Alipay’s “Xiamen e-Card.” - Stay: Near Zengcuo’an/Zhongshan Road (hostels ¥50–80; hotels ¥150–250).