Nestled along the southeastern coast of China, Xiamen, historically known as Amoy, is a vibrant sub-provincial city in Fujian Province, situated next to the Taiwan Strait. Here, visitors can experience the city's colorful arts scene, colonial architecture, and beautiful coastal landscapes, making it an ideal vacation destination.

With a population of approximately 5.35 million, Xiamen boasts a rich history that dates back to its establishment as a significant international seaport in the 19th century. Its name, Xiamen (厦门), translates to "Mansion Gate" or "Gate of China," symbolizing its role as a gateway for trade and cultural exchange.

Xiamen's unique geographical location has made it a focal point for tea trade, with its port facilitating the export of tea, porcelain, and paper. The city is also home to a diverse cultural mix, as many southern Fujianese emigrated to Taiwan and Southeast Asia, bringing their Hokkien language and traditions with them. Today, Xiamen is characterized by its monsoonal humid subtropical climate, featuring hot and humid summers and mild winters, making it an attractive destination year-round.

Whether you're wandering through the charming streets of Gulangyu Island or savoring local delicacies, Xiamen promises the ideal blend of history and modernity.

What to Do in Xiamen

Zeng Cuo’an Village 曾厝垵村

Once a humble fishing village, Zeng Cuo’an has transformed into a trendy cultural hub filled with winding alleys, artisanal shops, and food vendors. As visitors navigate through this charming area, they can discover both traditional architecture and contemporary art, making it a perfect spot to soak in the local atmosphere.

Zeng Cuo’an is also beloved for its ample array of street food and local cuisine outposts, making it a must visit for any and all foodies.

Shapowei 沙坡尾

Shapowei, once an old fishing port, is now an up-and-coming art district. The area is dotted with trendy cafes, galleries, and an outdoor market that springs to life on weekends. With its rustic charm and artistic vibe, Shapowei is where the essence of old Xiamen meets the creativity of its youth.

Gulangyu Island 鼓浪屿

A pedestrian-only island known for its stunning Victorian architecture (due to its history as a foreign concession during the late 19th and early 20th centuries), Gulangyu is a must-visit. The island's circumference is about 4 km, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll and some beach time. (We suggest Dadeji Beach 大德记沙滩 on Gulangyu’s southern tip.)

Gulangyu – a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2017 – offers a unique shopping experience alongside delicious local snacks, all while providing breathtaking views of Xiamen city.

Pro tip: Don't forget to purchase your “tourist return ticket” online (屿见厦门 Mini Program in Alipay) in advance for RMB35, especially during peak season. Ferries depart roughly every 30 minutes between 8am and 6pm, running between Dongdu Ferry Terminal (东渡客运码头) and Sanqiutian Pier (三丘田码头).

Nanputuo Temple 南普陀寺

As Xiamen’s most famous temple, Nanputuo Temple offers free entrance and is located at the base of Wulao Mountain. Visitors can climb the stairs that wind up the mountain for stunning views of the temple and the city. Be sure to dine at the temple’s vegetarian restaurant, known for its creative dishes made from local vegetables and tofu.

Visit the Tulous 福建土楼

The Fujian Tulou are unique earthen buildings that serve as communal dwellings for the Hakka people. These structures, built predominantly between the 12th and 20th centuries, are remarkable for their thick walls and circular or rectangular designs. The most famous Tulou clusters, such as those in Nanjing and Yongding, offer a glimpse into traditional Hakka culture and architecture.

There are three main tulous clusters to visit: Nanjing Tulou, Yongding Tulou, and Hua-an Tulou. To arrive at the Nanjing Tulou area from Xiamen, travelers can either hire a private driver (or pre-order a Didi) for RMB500 (about 2.5 hours), or take a one hour train from Xiamen Station (厦门火车站) to Nanjing Station (南靖站), then pre-arrange a driver to bring them the remaining one hour and 20 minutes by car to the tulou area (for RMB200).

Within the Nanjing Tulou area, there are many scenic spots worth visiting, mainly Taxia Village (塔下村); Shiqiao Village (石桥村) to visit Shunyu Tulou 顺裕楼 (the largest Tulou by number of rooms with 369 to be exact); Yuchang Tulou (裕昌楼) – one of the most picturesque tulou interiors;  and Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster (田螺坑土楼群) – a group of five earthen buildings nicknamed “Four Dishes and One Soup”because of its distinct formation. Note that many tulous do require additional fees to enter, like RMB90 to enter Tianluokeng, Yuchang Tulou and Taxia Village; RMB50 to enter Yongding Tulou Cluster, RMB90 to enter Yunshuiyao Village to see the famed Huaiyuan and Hegui Tulous, etc.

For spending the night in the tulou area, we suggest booking an economical room at Nanjing Tulou Tianluokeng No.1 Homestay (南靖土楼田螺坑壹号民宿), where rooms start around RMB150 a night.

Day Trip to Quanzhou 泉州

Known as “The Buddhist Country,” Quanzhou is one of China’s most famous historical and cultural cities, just one hour by train from Xiamen. Highlights include the grand Kaiyuan Temple – the largest temple in Fujian; the religious Confucius Temple 泉州府文庙 site; the longest ancient stone bridge in China (Anping Bridge); the Qingjing Mosque清净寺; and various natural parks.

To further explore Quanzhou, we recommend spending the night in the heart of the old town (泉州古镇) at the luxurious Kaipuu Belfry (七栩钟楼酒店), a restored mansion turned into a modern property.

Other must visit Xiamen destinations include:

• Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street 中山路步行街: A bustling tourist area lined with restaurants and shops, perfect for trying local delicacies.
• Huandao Road (环岛路): A scenic ring road around Xiamen Island, ideal for biking or walking.
• Baicheng Beach (白城沙滩): The closest beach to downtown, known for its lively atmosphere and picturesque views.
• Xiamen University (厦门大学): A stunning campus featuring lush gardens and the famous Furong Tunnel adorned with student graffiti.
• Coffee Street along Yundang Road (篔筜路): A stretch filled with charming coffee shops, ideal for a relaxing afternoon.
• Railroad Culture Park (厦门铁路文化公园): A transformed railway track turned park, great for leisurely walks and capturing photos.
• Ba Shi Night Market 八市阿杰五香: A buzzing market  at all hours, replete with fresh seafood, piping hot bowls of noodles, fried snacks, grilled proteins, and sweet treats.

What to Eat in Xiamen

A mix of traditional Fujian gastronomy and coastal seafood delicacies, Xiamen boasts a happening culinary scene, from night market food stalls to sprawling outdoor seafood joints, from back alley noodle shops to claypot proteins.

Shachamian 沙茶面

A local favorite, Shachamian consists of seafood satay noodles served in a rich, peanutty broth. Diners can customize the dish with various toppings, including fresh seafood, fried tofu, fish balls, meat, and vegetables.

Ginger Duck 姜母鸭

This traditional dish features duck slow-cooked with aged ginger in a clay pot over low heat, creating a comforting and aromatic meal that warms both body and soul.

Fried Oyster Omelette 海蛎煎

A delicious blend of fresh oysters, sweet potato starch, and eggs, fried to golden perfection on a flat top skillet, fried oyster omelettes are commonly found on most street corners.

Five Spice Pork Roll 炸五香

This street food delight features a thin outer layer of tofu skin wrapped around expertly seasoned pounded pork belly and water chestnuts. Like spring rolls, the are flash fried for the requisite crunch, and customarily served with a tangy hot dipping sauce.

Four Fruit Soup 四果汤

A refreshing dessert made from shaved ice, fresh and dried fruits, sweet beans, and a mix of jellies, the sweet “soup” is often topped with condensed milk or fruit syrup.

Braised Pork Zongzi 烧肉粽

A savory, triangular glutinous spiced rice dumpling filled with fatty pork, chestnuts, and salted egg yolks is wrapped in bamboo leaves and steamed for the ultimate on-the-go snack.

Fish Balls 鱼丸

Famous for their springy texture, Fujian-style fish balls are made from finely chopped fish mixed with starch, stuffed with seasoned pork. Often enjoyed in soups or hot pot, fish balls are a Fujian staple.

Peanut Soup 花生汤

A warm and creamy dessert made from high-quality peanuts, peanut soup offers a comforting sweetness that ends any meal on a high note.

Sea Worm Jelly 土笋冻

An unconventional yet celebrated local delicacy, sea worm jelly sees sipunculid – a type of worm found in muddy seabeds – tenderly cooked. The worm’s pectin mixed with the cooking liquid creating a jelly of sorts. Served in jelly discs and dunked in chili sauce, sea worm jelly can be found anywhere from fine dining menus to street carts.

Getting There & Trip Budgeting

Xiamen is easily accessible via Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport, located just a 20-25 minute drive from downtown. Taxi fares from the airport typically range around RMB45. For budget accommodation, expect to pay between RMB 200-400 per night. For a more luxurious stay, Lohkah Hotel and Spa offers a stunning experience starting at RMB1,500 per room.