The Top 5 Must-See Attractions of Xiamen

Located in the southeastern province of Fujian, China, Xiamen is a thriving coastal city known for its picturesque landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. It’s no surprise then, that millions of tourists flock to Xiamen each year to experience its many attractions. In this post, we will look at the top five must-see attractions in Xiamen based on popularity and overall cultural significance.

1. Gulangyu Island

Gulangyu Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Xiamen. The island is famous for its stunning architecture, narrow streets, and vibrant culture. The island is home to over 20,000 people, yet no motorized vehicles are allowed, making it a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. There are several historical sites on Gulangyu Island, most notably the Sunlight Rock, which stands at 93.7 meters above sea level and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Other attractions on the island include the Shuzhuang Garden, Piano Museum, and the Gulangyu Organ Museum.

2. Nanputuo Temple

Another popular attraction in Xiamen is the Nanputuo Temple, which is located at the foot of Wulaofeng (Five Old Men) Mountain. The temple is one of the most prominent Buddhist temples in Southern China and has a history that dates back over 1,000 years. The most notable feature of the temple is the statue of Kuan Yin (the Goddess of Mercy) that stands at 18 meters tall. The temple is also home to several ancient artifacts, including Buddhist scriptures and a bell that dates back to the Ming Dynasty.

3. Hulishan Fortress

The Hulishan Fortress is a Qing Dynasty fortress that dates back to 1891. The fortress is located on the southern coast of Xiamen and is famous for its intricate architecture and historical significance. The fortress was built to protect Xiamen from foreign invaders and features several bunkers, war tunnels, and artillery positions. The fortress also houses several historical artifacts, including antique guns and maps.

4. Xiamen University

Xiamen University is one of the most prestigious universities in China and is famous for its beautiful campus. The campus covers an area of over 1.2 square kilometers and features traditional Chinese architecture, gardens, and a beautiful lake. The university was founded in 1921 and has since become a leading institution for higher education in China. The university offers over 60 undergraduate programs and over 100 graduate programs.

5. Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street

Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street is a popular shopping district in Xiamen, known for its traditional architecture, street food, and shopping. The street is over 1,000 meters long and features over 800 shops and restaurants. The district is especially popular at night when the lights come on, creating a vibrant atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists alike.

Conclusion

Xiamen is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient temples, strolling through picturesque gardens, or indulging in delicious Chinese cuisine, Xiamen has something for everyone. We hope this list of the top five must-see attractions in Xiamen has been helpful in planning your visit to this amazing city. Don’t forget to take your camera and capture the moments that make Xiamen such a beautiful destination.

The Top 5 Must-See Attractions of Xiamen

Xiamen, a vibrant coastal city located in the southeastern province of Fujian in China, is known for its beautiful beaches, subtropical climate, and historical and cultural landmarks. Xiamen’s history dates back to the Tang Dynasty, and in modern times, it has transformed into one of the country’s most populous, prosperous, and cosmopolitan cities.

Visitors to Xiamen might be overwhelmed with the vast array of attractions the city has to offer, but there are a few must-see sites that stand out among the rest. Below are the top five must-see attractions of Xiamen.

1. Gulangyu Island

Gulangyu Island must surely rank as one of the most beautiful and picturesque regions in China, and it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island has over 70,000 inhabitants, and motor vehicles are prohibited, making it a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

One of the island’s biggest attractions is the beautiful colonial architecture dating back to the late 19th century. As you explore the beautiful old buildings, you’ll realize why Gulangyu is called the “Garden on the Sea.” With the ocean view, swaying coconut palms, and clear blue skies, the island presents the perfect opportunity to take a beautiful picture.

The island is also home to the “Piano Island Music Festival,” which attracts some of the finest musicians from all over the world. Gulangyu is also famous for its food, and visitors can enjoy local delicacies such as “pian’ er chai,” a kind of pastry with vegetable stuffing that’s unique to the island.

2. Nanputuo Temple

Nanputuo Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the southeast of Xiamen. The temple dates back to Tang Dynasty times and is one of the city’s oldest and most famous temples. Nanputuo Temple is famous for its beautiful architecture and art. The temple’s interior is a treasure trove of Buddhist art, including the famous large-scale murals.

The Nanputuo Temple preserves many antique treasures, including a bronze statue of Guanyin Buddha, a bronze bell, and a hand-written copy of the Diamond Sutra, most of which are lost in China. The temple also provides a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere for meditation.

3. Xiamen University

Xiamen University is a prestigious and beautiful campus situated on the southern coast of Xiamen. It’s one of the most renowned universities in China and is famous for its beautiful scenery and old buildings. Founded in 1921, the university has a mixed architectural style, from traditional Chinese buildings to modernist structures.

The campus is open to the public, so visitors may walk around and admire the beautiful scenery. Xiamen University has also produced a significant number of famous Chinese political leaders, scientists, and businesspeople, and the campus is home to a museum featuring their historical and cultural achievements.

4. Hulishan Fortress

Hulishan Fortress is a significant historical attraction in Xiamen. This military fortress dates back to the late 19th century and features some of the best-preserved military architecture of that era. Its thick granite walls, arrow slits and cannons reflect the island’s strategic importance in protecting the coastline from invaders.

The huge black cannon established in the fortress in 1886 is made in Britain and has a diameter of 37 centimeters. The weapon can shoot a ball weighing 145 kilograms up to 13 kilometers away. Visitors are given a guided tour of the fortress and can learn about its history and architecture.

5. The Sunlight Rock

The Sunlight Rock, located in the southern part of Xiamen Island, is the city’s iconic scenic spot. The rock is known for its birds-eye view of the city, and the panoramic views over Xiamen Island and Gulangyu Island are breathtaking.

The best time to visit Sunlight Rock is in the morning or evening when the light is soft and gentle. Climbing up to the top of the rock is a bit of a challenge, but the stunning vistas are well worth the effort.

The Bottom Line

Xiamen is a diverse city, and there are many other places of interest to visit beyond the top five must-see attractions listed above, such as Jimei School Village, Xiamen Botanical Garden, and many more! Nonetheless, these top sites never fail to inspire wonder and awe in visitors, and they are a must on your itinerary if you’re traveling to Xiamen.