Xiamen Travel

Xiamen, Fujian – a coastal garden city and an important hub of Minnan culture, home to the Gulangyu World Cultural Heritage, the stunning Huandao Road, and profound cultural heritage, is a renowned coastal tourist destination at home and abroad.

600+
Years of City-Building History
1
5A Scenic Area (Gulangyu)
1175
Meters (Highest Altitude - Yunding Mountain)
5.3M+
Permanent Population

3 Days 2 Nights Coastal Tour in Xiamen

Explore Gulangyu, visit Xiamen University, cycle along Huandao Road, and taste Minnan flavors

Trip Duration
3 Days 2 Nights
Main Destinations
Gulangyu, Xiamen University, Huandao Road, Jimei University Village, South Putuo Temple
Suitable For
Family with kids, couples on vacation, culture explorers, photography enthusiasts
Per Capita Budget
¥1200-¥2500
01
Piano Island Charm
One-Day Tour of Gulangyu
Itinerary Highlights

Wander around Gulangyu for the whole day, explore international-style architecture, climb Sunlight Rock to overlook the panoramic view, and taste special snacks on Longtou Road at night.

Attraction Arrangement
Gulangyu
A World Cultural Heritage Site, also known as the "Piano Island", with nearly a thousand historical buildings of various styles, it is an iconic attraction of Xiamen tourism.
Sunlight Rock
The highest peak of Gulangyu, climbing to the top offers a bird's-eye view of the entire island and Xiamen Island. The scenic area includes historical sites such as the Zheng Chenggong Memorial Hall.
Practical Information
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Gulangyu Featured Homestays
  • Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street Hotels
  • Inns around Ferry Terminal
Food Recommendations
  • Satay Noodles
  • Sea Worm Jelly (Tusun Dong)
  • Gulangyu Pie
  • Oyster Omelette
  • Peanut Soup
Travel Tips
  • Book Gulangyu ferry tickets online in advance (3-5 days)
  • No motor vehicles allowed on the island, explore on foot
  • Separate tickets required for some attractions
  • Recommended visiting time: 6-8 hours
02
Culture and Coast
Xiamen University + Huandao Road
Itinerary Highlights

Visit Xiamen University in the morning to experience the academic atmosphere, cycle along Huandao Road in the afternoon to enjoy the coastal scenery, and experience fishing village customs in Zengcuo'an in the evening.

Attraction Arrangement
Xiamen University
One of the most beautiful universities in China, founded in 1921. The campus has iconic buildings such as Furong Lake and Jiannan Auditorium, with profound cultural heritage.
Xiamen Huandao Road
A scenic avenue built along the coast, about 43 kilometers long, with attractions such as Coconut Wind Village and Huangcuo Beach along the way, making it an excellent choice for cycling and sightseeing.
Practical Information
Transportation Guide
  • Bus No. 29 from Xiamen University to Huandao Road
  • Rent a bicycle for Huandao Road (¥30-50/hour)
  • Parking is tight near Zengcuo'an, public transportation is recommended
Ticket Information
  • Xiamen University: Free (reservation required in advance)
  • South Putuo Temple: Free
  • Hulishan Fortress: ¥25
Featured Experiences
  • Take photos in Furong Tunnel of Xiamen University
  • Cycle along Huandao Road to watch the sunset
  • Taste Minnan snacks in Zengcuo'an
  • Walk on the beach by the sea
03
Jiageng Culture
Jimei University Village + Return Trip
Itinerary Highlights

Visit Jimei University Village in the morning to experience the Jiageng architectural style, visit Aoyuan Garden to pay tribute to Mr. Chen Jiageng, and return according to the itinerary in the afternoon.

Attraction Arrangement
Jimei University Village
Founded by the famous overseas Chinese leader Chen Jiageng, it is an educational park integrating Chinese and Western architectural styles, including Jimei University, Huaqiao University and other institutions.
Aoyuan Garden
The mausoleum of Mr. Chen Jiageng, integrating Minnan stone carving art with overseas Chinese history and culture, with numerous exquisite stone carvings in the garden.
Practical Information
Return Trip Suggestions
  • Jimei is about 30 minutes' drive from Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport
  • About 40 minutes from Xiamen Railway Station
  • It is recommended to depart for the airport/station before 3 pm
Food Map
  • Ginger Duck (Jiang Mu Ya)
  • Thin Pancake (Chunjuan)
  • Fish Ball Soup
  • Glutinous Rice Cake (Machi)
  • Sea Worm Jelly (Tusun Dong)
Souvenir Recommendations
  • Gulangyu Pie
  • Huangyuantang Pineapple Cake
  • Seafood Dried Goods
  • Minnan Tea Snacks
  • Bead Embroidery Crafts

Must-Try Foods in Xiamen

Satay Noodles

A classic snack in Xiamen, with noodles in a soup seasoned with satay sauce and various seafood, featuring a unique flavor, it is a representative of Minnan dietary culture.

Sea Worm Jelly (Tusun Dong)

A special snack in Xiamen, made by freezing the jelly from sea worms (commonly known as "tusun") boiled down, with a chewy texture, served with garlic vinegar and other seasonings.

Gulangyu Pie

A traditional pastry in Xiamen, filled with mung bean paste etc., with a crispy crust and sweet taste, it is a famous choice for souvenirs.

Ginger Duck (Jiang Mu Ya)

A classic Minnan dish, braised with muscovy duck and a large amount of ginger slices, with a rich aroma and nourishing effects, it is a common dish at Xiamen banquets.

Xiamen Travel Tips
Best Travel Time
  • March-May: Mild climate, suitable for outdoor activities
  • September-November: Avoid typhoon season, clear and crisp autumn weather
  • Avoid July-August (typhoon prone period) and summer peak season
Must-Experience Activities
  • Wander and taste food on Gulangyu
  • Cycle along Huandao Road to see the sea
  • Check in at Xiamen University campus
  • See Jiageng architecture in Jimei University Village
  • Watch sunrise/sunset by the sea
Budget Reference
  • Tickets: Gulangyu ferry ¥35 + Sunlight Rock ¥60 + Hulishan Fortress ¥25 ≈ ¥120
  • Accommodation: ¥300-800 per night
  • Catering: ¥200-400 per day
  • Transportation: About ¥150
  • Total: ¥1200-2500
Frequently Asked Questions
  • Is Gulangyu ferry ticket hard to buy? → Buy online 3-5 days in advance during peak season, can buy on the day during off-season
  • How to make an appointment for Xiamen University? → Through the "Xiamen University Visitor Reservation System" WeChat official account
  • Is transportation in Xiamen convenient? → Developed bus system in the city, it is recommended to take taxi or bus between attractions
  • What to note when playing by the sea? → Do a good job of sun protection, pay attention to tide times, follow safety tips