China · City Guide
Xiamen
Xiamen is one of China's most attractive and liveable coastal cities, a beautiful port city on the Fujian coast combining excellent seafood, the charming colonial island of Gulangyu, beautiful beaches, a vibrant café culture and easy access to the extraordinary Hakka earthen roundhouses of the Fujian countryside. Known for its relaxed pace, clean air and outstanding quality of life, Xiamen is consistently rated one of China's most enjoyable and beautiful cities.
Elect's take
"Xiamen has a character that is immediately appealing — the combination of Gulangyu island's colonial charm, excellent seafood, beautiful beaches and a generally relaxed atmosphere creates one of the most enjoyable coastal experiences available in China."
Gulangyu Island, accessible by ferry from Xiamen harbour, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of colonial architecture from the international settlement era, with beautiful lanes of European and Chinese hybrid buildings, a famous piano culture, outstanding seafood restaurants and beautiful beaches — all without cars or motorbikes. The beach culture of Xiamen, particularly Baicheng Beach near Xiamen University, is excellent. The Nanputuo Buddhist Temple is one of the most important in coastal Fujian. The Tulou earthen roundhouses of the Fujian countryside, UNESCO listed circular or square communal buildings of the Hakka people, are approximately 3 hours by road and provide one of the most extraordinary architectural experiences in China.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Gulangyu Island
A UNESCO listed colonial island of beautiful architecture and outstanding seafood.
Xiamen Beaches
Beautiful coastal beaches with the famous Baicheng Beach near Xiamen University.
Nanputuo Temple
One of the most important Buddhist temples on the Fujian coast.
Fujian Tulou
Extraordinary UNESCO listed Hakka earthen roundhouses approximately 3 hours inland.
Fujian Seafood
Outstanding fresh seafood in a city renowned for the quality of its coastal cuisine.
Piano Culture
Gulangyu's remarkable musical heritage has made it famous as the Island of Pianos.
