Top 10 Places to Visit in Xiamen Your Ultimate Guide to the ‘Slow Life’ (2025)

1. Gulangyu Island, Xiamen: An Island of History and Bohemian Charm

Explore labyrinthine alleys: Wander through winding streets to discover hidden historic villas and unique boutique shops.

Admire international architecture: Witness the island’s distinctive “International Architecture Exhibition,” featuring buildings blending Chinese and Western styles.

Savor coffee time: Find a seaside café, settle in with a cup, and unwind while watching ships pass by.

Climb Sunlight Rock: Ascend the island’s highest point (Sunlight Rock) for breathtaking panoramic views of the island and ocean.

Listen to live music: Dubbed the “Island of Pianos,” Gulangyu often fills with the melodious sounds of street performers or music drifting from windows.

2. Nanputuo Temple, Xiamen: An Oasis of Serenity in the City

Experience Buddhist culture: Visit this renowned Buddhist temple and immerse yourself in its tranquil, peaceful atmosphere.

Savoring Vegetarian Cuisine: Try a delicious vegetarian meal at the temple’s restaurant for a unique cultural experience.

Relaxation and Meditation: Find a quiet spot to sit, listen to the monks chanting sutras, and temporarily escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

Observing the Release Pond: Watch the leisurely turtles and fish in the pond in front of the temple, feeling the harmony of life.

3. Xiamen University: One of China’s Most Beautiful Campuses

Stroll by Furong Lake: Take a walk along the picturesque Furong Lake, where elegant black swans are often spotted.

Walk through Furong Tunnel: Pass through the famous “Furong Tunnel” on foot, admiring the creative graffiti murals by students lining both sides.

Appreciate Architectural Style: Notice the campus’s distinctive “Kang-style” architecture, characterized by red brick walls and tiled roofs.

Feel the Vibrant Energy: Enter during open hours to experience the academic atmosphere and youthful vitality of a Chinese university campus.

4. Zengcuoan, Xiamen: An Artsy Fishing Village Transformed into a Foodie Haven

Indulge in Street Snacks: Treat this place as your culinary paradise, savoring diverse street foods like oyster omelets.

Shop for Handicrafts: Browse countless small shops to discover unique handmade crafts and souvenirs.

Stay in a Characterful Homestay: Consider spending a night in a uniquely designed homestay within the village to immerse yourself in local life.

Stroll to the Beach: Just a few minutes’ walk from the bustling streets takes you to the sandy shores where you can enjoy the sea breeze.

5. Xiamen Coastal Road: Scenic Seaside Cycling

Rent a Bike: Hire a bicycle and ride along the dedicated coastal bike path—the best way to explore the shoreline.

Relax on the Beach: Stop at any sandy stretch along the route to soak up the sun or simply enjoy the sound of the waves.

Snap Photos: Numerous interesting sculptures and viewing platforms dot the path, offering perfect spots for memorable photos.

Admire the Sea Views: Throughout your ride, take in the endless blue ocean and scattered islands dotting the horizon.

6. Hulishan Battery, Xiamen: Explore Historical Ruins

View the Giant Cannon: Witness the Krupp Cannon, the world’s largest surviving 19th-century coastal artillery piece.

Enjoy the Sea Views: From the battery’s elevated vantage point, take in sweeping ocean vistas and modern container ships, creating a striking contrast between past and present.

Learn About History: Visit the small museum to discover how this fortress historically defended the city’s coastline.

7. Xiamen Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street: Shopping and Food Hub

Admire Arcade Architecture: Notice the “arcade” buildings lining the street, featuring covered walkways perfect for strolling.

Sample Local Delicacies: Don’t miss Xiamen specialties like peanut soup; many time-honored shops gather here.

Enjoy Shopping: From international brands to local specialties, this street caters to all your shopping needs.

Experience the Nighttime Vibes: As dusk falls and lights illuminate the area, the entire district becomes even livelier and more vibrant.

8. Xiamen Botanical Garden: A Vast Plant Kingdom

Explore the Succulent Zone: In the xerophytic area, you’ll encounter massive cacti and diverse succulents—perfect for photos.

Experience the Tropical Rainforest: In the “Rainforest World” area, mist sprays at specific times daily, creating a dreamlike, mystical atmosphere.

Discover Rare Flowers and Plants: The garden cultivates thousands of plant species from around the world, making it an excellent place to learn about nature.

9. Xiamen Jimei Academy Village: A Cultural and Educational Hub

Visit Tan Kah Kee’s Former Residence: Learn about Tan Kah Kee, a renowned patriotic overseas Chinese who dedicated his wealth to establishing schools and universities here.

Stroll Along Dragon Boat Pond: Walk beside the picturesque Dragon Boat Pond, admiring the unique architecture blending Chinese-style roofs with Western-style walls.

Soak in the Academic Atmosphere: This area houses multiple universities, offering a serene and beautiful environment perfect for leisurely walks.

10. Xiamen Garden Expo Park: China Garden Expo Park

Experience China’s Gardens in One Day: This vast park showcases diverse Chinese garden styles from across the country, including delicate Jiangnan gardens and grand Northern landscapes.

Photography and Strolling: An ideal spot for leisurely walks and photography, with picturesque views around every corner.

Ascend Xingling Pavilion: Climb the park’s iconic Xingling Pavilion for panoramic views of the entire grounds.