Things to do in Xiamen

Kulangsu is without a doubt one of the most magical and unique places in all of China, capable of completely enchanting you from the very first moment. This island has something magnetic about it, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle of the modern world for a while and step into a completely different era.What strikes you immediately upon stepping off the ferry is the pervasive, soothing peace. The fact that a complete ban on motor vehicles is enforced across the entire island—no cars, scooters, or noisy motorbikes—completely changes the dynamic of exploring. Instead of the roar of engines, you hear the sound of the sea, birdsong, and the sounds of music drifting lazily from the windows of villas and music schools. Kulangsu is not called the Island of Pianos for nothing. Walking through the shaded, narrow alleys, you get the impression that this entire place lives to its own unhurried rhythm, where the past seamlessly blends with the preseent.

The botanical garden is large, built against the mountain, and the overall scenery is pleasant. The main attractions are the Rainforest World, the succulent area, various flowering plants and shrubs, and a seven-tiered escalator. Take Metro Line 1 to Zhongshan Park Station, Exit 3B, walk a few hundred meters to enter the garden from the West Gate. Once inside, be sure to take the unlimited-ride sightseeing bus to various attractions. Walking around the mountainous areas can be quite tiring. First, visit the Rainforest World, then the succulent area to see the cacti, followed by the Flower Garden, then the Xizi Garden, and finally take the bus to the South Gate Station. From the South Gate, you can enjoy a distant view of the sea. Take two elevators and seven escalators down to the South Gate; each step of the escalator offers a scenic view and photo opportunities. Finally, take the sightseeing bus back to the West Gate from the South Gate. The photos are mainly taken at the Xizi Garden station of the botanical garden.

Visiting the Zhonggu Cableway in early October, with its clear skies and gentle breezes, offered the perfect opportunity to experience the breathtaking aerial views, far removed from the sweltering heat of midsummer. The Zhonggu Cableway traverses the Wanshi Mountain forest, and the gentle ascent in the cable car provides a unique and immersive experience, offering panoramic views of Xiamen from above. The cable car cabins are open-plan, offering unobstructed views. As the cable car slowly ascends, lush subtropical forests line both sides, their verdant foliage and fresh mountain air filling the air. With each ascent, the view gradually expands, revealing the verdant Zhonggu Mountain range nearby, and in the distance, the red-tiled roofs of Xiamen's old town, along with the high-rise buildings and the bay, unfolding in a harmonious tapestry. Reaching the highest point, one can gaze upon Gulangyu Island and the boundless sea, taking in the panoramic view of the city, mountains, and azure ocean blending seamlessly into a breathtaking panorama. The entire journey takes approximately forty minutes one way, with a smooth and leisurely ride, ideal for savoring the scenery at a leisurely pace. Along the way, you'll see towering boulders in the valleys and forest trails, with constantly changing mountain scenery from different angles. Compared to hiking, the cable car saves you the effort of climbing, yet offers a panoramic view unmatched by ordinary observation decks. The only drawback is the long queues during peak hours; it's recommended to travel during off-peak times. The cabins offer no shade, so remember to wear sunscreen when the sun is strong. Sitting in the cable car, with the mountain breeze in your ears and overlooking the entire city, you'll feel incredibly relaxed. The Zhonggu Cableway is more than just a transportation route; it's a window into the panoramic view of Xiamen's mountains and sea. Here, the wild beauty of the mountains and the coastal cityscape converge, allowing you to experience the tranquility of nature while enjoying breathtaking urban views. If you're tired of the bustling city streets, climbing here and gazing at the unique mountain and sea scenery of Xiamen from mid-air is a pleasant and unforgettable experience.

If you're interested in military matters, you can check out the history of the fort, the origins of the cannons, and the interesting screenings in the small theater about the development of Krupp cannons and the history of the Kinmen Island conflict.

For a family trip to Xiamen, the Xiamen Science and Technology Museum is definitely a treasure trove of indoor entertainment for kids. It's perfect for both sunny and rainy days, and the air conditioning is excellent, allowing you to easily spend half a day there. Most exhibits are interactive, so it's not just about looking at pictures; kids are fully engaged. The magnetic and electric stage performance is spectacular, and the children's area features water-powered installations, climbing walls, and slides, allowing children to unleash their energy. The aquarium's Jiaolong submersible model and various sound and light science experiments make dry knowledge fun and easy to understand. During the National Day holiday, it gets quite crowded, so expect queues for popular attractions. Remember to book in advance for the Flying Over the Cinema. Overall, it balances entertainment and science education, making it both fun and educational. We recommend arriving early and managing your energy wisely. It's a great place to broaden your children's horizons and a must-visit for a family trip to Xiamen.

Walking around Furong Lake after entering the school gate is a pleasant experience. The red brick and green tile buildings in the Jiarong style are pleasing to the eye, and the large trees along the road provide shade, keeping you cool and dry. I didn't feel tired even after strolling around for half a day. The overall atmosphere is quiet and perfect for leisurely exploration.

There weren't many people at Nanputuo Temple on the weekend, and the free incense at the entrance was a thoughtful touch. The temple buildings were simple and clean, and climbing the steps offered views of Xiamen University and the sea. The path was shaded by trees, providing coolness from the sun. I bought some vegetarian pastries, which were light and not greasy. Overall, it was a relaxing and comfortable experience.

Excellent music and drama entertainment not to mention the nice boat ride!

The meal started off well, but after paying for the show, we were forced to pay extra for each table on the third-floor deck, or we had to stand to watch. It felt like we were being forced to spend money, which was very unpleasant.

I spent most of the day at Jimei University Village, strolling around the Dragon Boat Pool. The red brick and white stone architecture of the Jimei School was very charming. The village wasn't as noisy as a tourist attraction; there were small shops along the roadside where you could sit and have a drink. The overall pace was slow and relaxing, much more comfortable than shopping in a mall.