Joanna James
Occupying pride of place on the eastern shore of China, Xiamen is not just a heritage hub for the masses. Dubbed the "Garden on the Sea", this breathtaking area of the country is home to its own distractions and activity bases. Here are 10 things every traveller must do during a tour of Xiamen.
As one of the finest Buddhist temples in the area, no visit to Xiamen would be complete without a tour of the Nanputuo Temple. Dating back 100 years, the venue was built during the reign of the Tang Dynasty, locals have great faith in the temple's ability to grant their wishes for health, wealth and prosperity.
While it may not be a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site when compared to some of the other cultural hotspots in Xiamen, Gulangyu Island is a history buff's dream come true. The entire island full of Chinese relics and ancient buildings can be explored on a walking tour due to the island's minute size.
Those looking to indulge in local delicacies should look no further than the arcade buildings of Zhongshan Road Walking Street for the best grub in town. Apart from digging into treats available at Huang Zehe Peanut Soup and Bapopo Herbal Jelly, travellers can also stock up on souvenirs thanks to the boutiques down this street.
Built-in accordance with the "Harmony of Nature and Humanity" principle, the Hakka Earth Buildings are a part of Fujian Tulou and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site like no other.
The Xiamen Huandao Road is a coastal road that not only offers stunning ocean vistas but a chance for bikers to explore the coastline at their own pace. Also called the Five-Colour Road, the grey-hued highway, the blue ocean, the golden sandy beaches and the green grass make this a biking excursion to remember.
Over 100 years old, the Hulishan Fortress is an iconic edifice of historic record. Spread out over 13,000m2, the only way to reach this fortress is to trek up the site where one can take in the views from the Pangui Platform or the Wanggui Platform.
Quzhou city is an ancient precinct of Xiamen where the starting location of China's Maritime Silk Road is found.
Considered the best "artistic village in China" the Hot Innovative Cultural Village is a venue where those based at Pan Pacific Xiamen or any of Xiamen best hotel properties can dine, shop, and enjoy themselves. The courtyards and the food vendors alone make a visit well worth your time.
As the biggest seafood market in all of Xiamen, this is the best place to buy fresh seafood right off the boats. Locals are known to frequent the venue since 7 am to bag the best deals.
Also called the "Wanshi Botanical Garden" this extensive park divided into 20 gardens is a picturesque venue for a family picnic.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
