Most recommended 10 Things to Do in Xiamen - Coastal China 

Gulangyu Island is well known for its pleasant and beautiful landscape. The Island is scattered with colonial architecture and museums including one dedicated to pianos. The island is located not too far away from Xiamen’s best hotels. Since the place is popular with tourists, plan ahead and buy tickets in advance. Hotel concierges at places like the Pan Pacific Xiamen would be able to help you. Gulangyu Island is a UNESCO heritage site, hence take your time to explore its history and remnant buildings and gardens.

Nanputo, also known as South Putuo Temple, is a peaceful sight. It stands in steadfast tranquillity at the foot of Putuo Mountain. The temple is full of ponds laden with lotus flowers. Take a stroll along the gardens, and then visit the different halls.

A history buff’s haven, Hulishan Fortress sits atop the Huli Mountain, facing the sea. The ocean views themselves are spectacular. Once inside, you’ll find a rectangular fort, a commanding tower, a castle, an ammunition depot, barracks and a secret tunnel. At 8:30 am sharp daily, the guards at the temple open the gates decked in their traditional uniforms.

The best thing about Chinese universities is the beautiful grounds. Entrance gates to the University are arresting. Take your time to enjoy the parks all around the university buildings.  

The neon lights and prosperous-looking shops along Zhongshan Road are perfect for a day of retail therapy and discovery. Catch a movie at a cinema, eat a gourmet meal at a restaurant and buy some souvenirs to take back home.

Situated just outside Xiamen, the Fujian Tulou Clusters are rounded, fort-like structures made with clay and sandy soil. The fortress was once home and refuge to the people of Hakka minority. Nowadays, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Nestled behind the Nanputuo Temple on top of a hill, the Wanshi Botanical Gardens is an assortment of different gardens. You can visit the garden right after the temple. Move slowly from one landscape to another. You’ll walk amongst indigenous plants and then spot something you’ll find in an English garden or cacti from a desert. The garden is full of blooming flowers and sunshine. Wander freely, but take plenty of sunscreen and water to stay energized.

Catch glimpses of Xiamen from above with a ride on the Zhonggu Cableway. You can even get off midway for a walk and a photo op. From the top of the mountain, you can see a rock formation. But, the best views from the air are of the cityscape in all its past and present glory.  

Escape the city, and go into the lush green mountains of Wuyi, with its canyons, waterfalls and incomparable flora and fauna. The best time for your mountain exploration falls between June to October. During this period the forest is in bloom.

Although you can’t swim there, Baicheng Beach is a lovely spot with soft sand arresting views. You can have an evening picnic at the beach. Tuck into your feast as the sun paints the horizon in a myriad of red-tinged hues.