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Top 9 Popular Attractions in Xiamen

1. Gulangyu Island (鼓浪屿)
   Gulangyu Island, located in Siming District, Xiamen, is a small island full of artistic charm, renowned as a “World Architecture Expo.” The island features famous attractions such as Sunlight Rock and Shuzhuang Garden, ideal for strolling and photography. As a National 5A Tourist Attraction and a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, Gulangyu is celebrated for its pleasant climate and nicknamed the “Garden on the Sea,” “Piano Island,” and “Music Town.” Seafood on the island is relatively expensive, and dining is not highly recommended. Be cautious when choosing tour guides, as some may engage in deceptive practices. Ferry tickets must be booked in advance via the “Yu Jian Xiamen” mini-program. It’s recommended to visit in the morning, with an estimated tour duration of 4-5 hours.
2. The Botanical Garden (厦门植物园)
   The Botanical Garden, located in Xiamen, features a rich variety of plants and several themed gardens, such as the Tropical Rainforest Zone and the Succulent and Cactus Zone, making it ideal for photography and sightseeing. The garden boasts exquisite landscape designs, with highlights including the rainforest mist sprays and the succulent area. Entering through the west gate is recommended for convenience, and visitors can also opt for a sightseeing car. Avoid entering from the south gate in summer due to the long, sun-exposed walk. Some areas may require waiting in line, especially for the sightseeing cars during peak times. Transportation is convenient, with options for taxis or metro. Be sure to bring mosquito repellent and sun protection. Tickets cost ¥30 and can be purchased online or on-site.
3. Xiamen University (厦门大学)
   Xiamen University, located at the southern end of Xiamen Island, is renowned for its picturesque campus surrounded by mountains and the sea. Its unique architectural style makes it one of the most beautiful universities in China. The campus offers a serene environment with lush greenery, featuring attractions like Furong Lake and the Furong Tunnel. It boasts a strong academic atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. Visitors must book in advance, with a somewhat complex reservation system and facial recognition requirements. During pandemic restrictions, access may be limited to guests accompanied by students. Recommended itinerary: Visitor Center → Furong Lake → Furong Tunnel → Upper Oval Field → Exit via Baicheng Gate. The tour takes about 2-3 hours and is perfect for a leisurely walk and photography.
4. Shapowei (沙坡尾)
   Shapowei is a historic neighborhood blending old Xiamen charm with a new artistic vibe. It features vintage houses, trendy stores, cafes, and art spaces, making it an excellent spot to experience the fusion of tradition and modernity. This area is rich in artistic ambiance, with many photogenic spots and craft shops. A popular highlight is the reflection of the Twin Towers, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Although Shapowei is a top attraction in Xiamen, crowds can make taking photos challenging, and some local snacks may not be very cost-effective. Public transportation is recommended for convenience. Easily accessible by bus or metro, Shapowei holds historical significance as the origin of Xiamen Port, preserving its authentic fishing harbor charm.
5. Jimei Xuecun (集美学村)
   Jimei Xuecun, located on the Jimei Peninsula in Xiamen, is renowned for its distinctive Jiaqing-style architecture and unique cultural atmosphere. It is not only an important attraction in Xiamen but also hailed as “China’s most beautiful academic village.” Key spots to visit include the Xuecun Archway, Longzhou Pool, Shigu Road, and Jiageng Park. The Sea Train on Metro Line 1 adds both fun and convenience for tourists. Although transportation is convenient, the area lacks extensive amenities. Some visitors feel that the scenery and snack streets resemble those found around universities in other cities, making the area’s character less distinctive. It is recommended to visit the Chen Jiageng Memorial Hall and Aoyuan to learn about the history and cultural background of Jimei Xuecun. There is also luggage storage service near the metro station, offering added convenience for travelers.
6. Baicheng Beach (白城沙滩)
   Baicheng Beach, located south of Xiamen University, offers beautiful sea views and a romantic sunset scene, making it an ideal spot for photographing the Twin Towers and sunsets. This is a popular location for sunset watching and photography, especially during dusk when the view of the Twin Towers is captivating. The beach environment is average, with coarser sand and somewhat murky water, but the photography opportunities are great, making it perfect for capturing memorable moments. Transportation is convenient, with multiple bus routes directly connecting to the beach. It is adjacent to Xiamen University, and the surrounding attractions make it suitable for a day trip.
7. Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street (中山路)
   Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street is the commercial center of Xiamen, featuring unique arcade-style architecture and a wide variety of local delicacies and specialty shops, with a vibrant night scene. The street exudes Southeast Asian charm, making it ideal for strolling and photography, with many long-established shops and snacks to try. Although it is a bustling commercial street, some shops primarily cater to tourists, and some of the snacks may not be very authentic. This historic shopping street has witnessed the transformation of Xiamen’s old town, and its arcade-style buildings give visitors a European feel.
8. Shili Changti (Ten-Mile Long Embankment) (十里长堤)
   Shili Changti (Ten-Mile Long Embankment) is one of the must-visit spots in Xiamen, where you can not only enjoy the beautiful sunset but also listen to live band performances, creating a romantic atmosphere. At dusk, the scenery of Shili Changti is particularly captivating. You can enjoy the sea breeze, listen to music, and relax. The sea train and the sunset views make it feel like you’re in a Studio Ghibli animated world. However, the lawn maintenance is not great, and some areas are muddy and crowded, which can affect the experience. It is recommended to visit during off-peak hours. The location is easily accessible by taking Metro Line 1 to Jimei Xuecun Station and walking a few minutes. The area also has a snack street where you can try local delicacies.
9. The Zhonggu Cableway (钟鼓索道)
   The Zhonggu Cableway offers a round-trip journey of about 40 minutes. The first half of the ride offers mountain views, while the second half showcases the ocean, making it a romantic and relaxing experience. Tickets cost 80 yuan, and it is recommended to make reservations in advance. The cable car provides a panoramic view of Xiamen, including Gulangyu Island and the Twin Towers, with breathtaking scenery. It’s ideal to visit during the daytime or at sunset. Some visitors have noted that the cable car space is small, and the ride is relatively slow, leading to a less thrilling experience. It is suggested to ride with two people per car, as solo passengers will need to pay an extra fee. The cableway operates from 8:30 to 17:30, with free admission for children under 1.2 meters. It is recommended to book tickets at least ten days in advance to avoid availability issues.

Additional Information

* For certain attractions, foreign passport holders can buy tickets directly on-site without the requirement for advance reservations.

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