Xiamen Attractions: 2026 Guide to Top 10 Must-See Places
Xiamen Attractions Guide: 10 Must-Visit Destinations for Tourists
Xiamen, hailed as the “Garden City by the Sea,” stands as one of China’s most captivating coastal destinations along the southeast coast. This city seamlessly blends natural landscapes, colonial heritage, contemporary art, and laid-back island living. First-time international visitors may feel overwhelmed by the abundance of choices. This guide curates Xiamen’s most iconic and representative attractions, helping you efficiently plan your itinerary and ensure you don’t miss any unforgettable experiences.
How to Efficiently Tour Xiamen’s Attractions?
Xiamen’s attractions are relatively concentrated and primarily divided into the following areas:
Gulangyu Area: A UNESCO World Heritage island accessible only by ferry
Southern Xiamen Island: Features cultural sites like Xiamen University, Nanputuo Temple, and Shapowei
Huan Dao Road Corridor: Coastal scenery and leisure zones
Downtown and Markets: Immerse in local daily life
We recommend grouping attractions by location to minimize travel time. Most sites are moderately spaced apart, with taxi or ride-hailing services typically reaching destinations within 20 minutes.
In-Depth Guide to Must-Visit Attractions in Xiamen
1. Gulangyu Island (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Why it’s worth visiting: This is the absolute heart of Xiamen tourism. Gulangyu isn’t just a picturesque island—it’s a microcosm of modern Chinese history. Over a thousand distinctive “international-style buildings” stand preserved here, chronicling the lives and work of expatriates from various nations who settled on the island from the late 19th to mid-20th century. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2017.
Best Experience:
Pre-book Tickets: Purchase ferry tickets 1-3 days in advance via the “Xiamen Ferry+” WeChat official account (daytime route: Xiamen Cruise Center Xiamen-Gulangyu Pier to Sanqiutian Pier).
Essential Itinerary:
After disembarking, visit the “Most Beautiful Corner” and “Boat Houses,” then ascend “Sunlight Rock” for panoramic views (recommended at dawn or dusk to avoid crowds). Proceed to “Shuzhuang Garden” and the “Piano Museum,” concluding with relaxation on the beach.
Avoid Crowds:
Midday, steer clear of the main commercial street Longtou Road and explore quieter alleys like Fujian Road and Lujiao Road to discover historic villas.
Best Time: Weekday mornings or evenings; weekends and holidays are extremely crowded
Duration: At least 4-6 hours; plan for a full day
2. Xiamen Botanical Garden (Wanshi Botanical Garden)
Why it’s worth visiting: A paradise for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. Built along the hillside, the garden features two special zones:
Rainforest World: Daily misting system activation (typically 9:00 AM–11:00 AM and 2:00 PM–4:00 PM) creates stunning “Tyndall effect” as sunlight filters through water droplets, resembling a fairyland.
Desert Zone: Giant cacti and succulents create surreal landscapes reminiscent of the Mexican desert.
Practical Tips:
The park is large and hilly. Save energy by purchasing a shuttle ticket (¥10) at the entrance.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring drinking water.
Rainforest misting times are prime photo opportunities. Check the daily misting schedule in advance.
Time Required: 2-4 hours
3. Nanputuo Temple and Wulao Peak
Why it’s worth visiting: One of Fujian’s most renowned Buddhist temples, founded during the Tang Dynasty. Unlike many commercialized temples, Nanputuo maintains a serene and solemn atmosphere and is free to the public.
Experience recommendations:
Follow the temple’s central axis to visit key structures like the Hall of Heavenly Kings and the Great Hero Hall
Sample the temple’s renowned vegetarian cuisine (especially the “Nanputuo Vegetarian Pastries”)
If physically able, climb Wulao Peak behind the temple for spectacular views overlooking Xiamen University and Xiamen Bay
Important Notes: Dress modestly (avoid shorts and sleeveless tops); photography is generally prohibited inside halls
Time Required: 1.5–3 hours (including hiking)
4. Xiamen University & Furong Tunnel
Why it’s worth visiting: Hailed as one of “China’s most beautiful universities,” the campus features Furong Lake, the Kian-Kong architectural complex (a fusion of Chinese and Western styles named after founder Tan Kah Kee), and the renowned “Furong Tunnel.”
Important Information:
Visitor policies frequently change; advance booking via the “Xiamen University Visitor Reservation System” is currently required.
If campus access is unavailable, admire iconic buildings from outside the gates or visit nearby Ding’aozi Cat Street.
Furong Tunnel: Approximately 1 kilometer long, its walls are covered in creative student graffiti, showcasing vibrant campus culture.
Time Required: 1–2 hours
5. Cycling Along the Ring Road
Why it’s worth visiting: This scenic coastal route is rated by many travelers as one of China’s most beautiful seaside cycling paths.
Best cycling segment: Starting from Baicheng Beach, passing through Huli Hill Battery, Zengcuo’an, and Music Square, all the way to Huangcuo Beach—approximately 6-8 kilometers in total.
How to do it:
Use shared bikes (e.g., Hello Bike—app download required)
Numerous spots along the route for photo stops and breaks
Recommended at dusk to avoid harsh sunlight and catch the sunset
Highlights:
Hulishan Battery: Witness Qing Dynasty soldier drills and view the world’s largest surviving coastal cannon
Seaside Boardwalk: Dedicated walking/cycling paths along sections of the route offer closer proximity to the ocean
Estimated Time: 2-3 hours (including photo breaks)
6. Zengcuo’an
Why it’s worth visiting: This transformed fishing village has become a vibrant cultural and creative leisure district, offering the best spot to experience Xiamen’s bohemian and artistic atmosphere.
How to explore:
Daytime and nighttime offer distinct atmospheres, both worth experiencing.
Venture beyond the main street into side alleys to discover unique shops and guesthouses.
This is the hub for sampling Xiamen’s signature snacks (like oyster omelette, bamboo shoot jelly, peanut soup).
Tips: Expect crowds; keep personal belongings secure. Some shops allow bargaining.
Time needed: 2-3 hours
7. Shapo West Art District
Why it’s worth visiting: A modern art district transformed from an old fishing boat factory, showcasing Xiamen’s youthful and creative side.
Experience highlights:
Visit art studios and design shops
Weekend creative markets and art events are common
Nearby “Typhoon Shelter” still moors traditional fishing boats, creating a striking contrast between old and new
Surrounded by many high-quality cafes and restaurants
Ideal for: Visitors interested in contemporary art, design, and photography
Time needed: 1.5–2.5 hours
8. No. 8 Market (Bashi)
Why it’s worth visiting: For the most authentic taste of Xiamen’s local life, Bashi is the go-to spot. This oldest and largest seafood market in Xiamen is most bustling in the morning.
How to experience it:
Even without buying anything, strolling through the market to soak up the atmosphere is enjoyable
Sample street food stalls like Ajie Five-Spice or Zhu Ji Hand-Shredded Chicken
Purchase fresh seafood and have it cooked at nearby stalls (negotiate processing fees beforehand)
Traditional Xiamen architecture lines the surrounding alleys
Tips: Expect noise; wear comfortable shoes; visit morning for freshest offerings and liveliest atmosphere
Time required: 1–2 hours
9. Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street
Why it’s worth visiting: Xiamen’s most bustling commercial street, lined with continuous arcade buildings—a common architectural feature in Southeast Asia and China’s southeastern coastal regions. These structures house shops on the ground floor with residential units above, featuring covered walkways for shelter from sun and rain.
Experience recommendations:
Admire the arcade architecture, especially after nightfall when illuminated
Purchase Xiamen specialties and time-honored products
Turn off the main street into side alleys (like Jukou Street) to discover more authentic local shops
Time needed: 1-2 hours
10. Jimei Academic Village
Why it’s worth visiting: Located outside Xiamen Island, accessible via Metro Line 1 (enjoy the “sea metro” scenery). Founded by patriotic overseas Chinese Tan Kah Kee, its architecture uniquely blends Chinese-style roofs with Western-style buildings.
Main Attractions:
Kang-style architecture at Jimei Middle School and Jimei University
Ao Garden (Tan Kah Kee Memorial Hall)
Dragon Boat Pond
Transportation: Metro Line 1 to “Jimei Academy Village” station; approximately 30-40 minutes from the island
Time Required: Half-day tour (3-4 hours)
Itinerary Suggestions
Xiamen One-Day Tour
Morning: Gulangyu Island (depart early)
Afternoon: Nanputuo Temple, Xiamen University (if accessible)
Evening: Cycling along Coastal Road (Bai Cheng to Zengcuo’an section)
Night: Dinner on Zhongshan Road or in Zengcuo’an
Xiamen Three-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Full day on Gulangyu Island
Day 2: Morning: Nanputuo Temple and Xiamen University; Afternoon: Botanical Garden; Evening: Shapo Bay
Day 3: Morning: Baishi Market experience; Afternoon: Cycling along Coastal Road and Zengcuo’an; Evening: Zhongshan Road
Xiamen Five-Day Tour
Add to the three-day itinerary:
Day 4: Half-day tour of Jimei Academy Village; Afternoon: Rest or free exploration
Day 5: Fujian Tulou Day Trip (requires advance booking of local tour or private car)
Best Seasons for Visiting:
Best: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (October-November) for pleasant weather
Acceptable: Winter (December-February) with moderate temperatures but possible rain
Avoid: Summer (June-September) due to heat and humidity, and Typhoon Season (typically July-September)
Transportation Tips:
- Must book Gulangyu ferry tickets online in advance
- Download map apps (e.g., AutoNavi) and ride-hailing apps (e.g., DiDi)
- Metro Line 1 connects major transportation hubs and some attractions
- Sightseeing buses operate along Huan Dao Road
Admission Fees (approx. RMB):
Gulangyu Ferry: 35 RMB round-trip
Sunlight Rock: 50 RMB
Shuzhuang Garden: ¥30
Botanical Garden: ¥30
Hulisanshan Battery: ¥25
Nanputuo Temple: Free
Special Notes for International Visitors:
- Most attractions feature English signage, though guided tours are primarily in Chinese
- Mobile payments (Alipay/WeChat Pay) are widely accepted
- Maintain flexibility in your itinerary—Xiamen’s charm often lies in unexpected discoveries
- Some street snacks may not suit all tastes, but we recommend trying local specialties at least once.
Xiamen’s true appeal lies not in any single landmark, but in the holistic experience—the harmony of historic architecture and natural landscapes, tranquil corners within a bustling city, and the seamless blend of tradition and modernity. With thoughtful planning, you can uncover the multifaceted charm of this “Garden City by the Sea” in just a few days.
Most importantly, don’t rush to tick off every attraction. Allow time to get lost in Gulangyu’s alleys, watch the sea from a bench along the coastal road, or observe local life in a Shapo’s café. These seemingly “time-wasting” moments often become the most cherished memories of your journey.
Wishing you an unforgettable journey in Xiamen!
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