Xiamen: Garden on the Sea
Experience academic romance, island vibes, and artistic ports in this coastal paradise. From piano islands to seafood markets.
Welcome to Xiamen! Known as the "Garden on the Sea," this city blends academic romance, island vibes, and artistic ports. This 3-day, 2-night plan covers the "Spirited Away" sea train, the piano island of Gulangyu, and authentic Minnan snacks.
Attractions & Itinerary
Tap copy & paste icon at the right side of attraction name and paste in map app to see the location.
Day 1: Academy Vibes & Mountain-Sea Views
Nanputuo Temple (南普陀寺)
Located right next to Xiamen University. You can get a free incense stick upon entry. It is famous for the saying "Visit Nanputuo once a year, avoid suffering for three years." Very peaceful.
Cost:Free
Hours:08:00 - 17:00
Xiamen Botanical Garden (厦门植物园)
Take the shuttle bus directly to the Succulent Plant Zone for photogenic giant cacti, then visit the Rainforest World for the misty fairy-tale vibe.
Zhonggu Cableway (钟鼓索道)
Located right next to the Botanical Garden. A 30-minute ride offering a panoramic view of Xiamen's cityscape, the sea, and the Twin Towers. Best visited at sunset.
Day 2: Island Charm & Architecture
Gulangyu Island (鼓浪屿)
A UNESCO World Heritage site known as the "Piano Island." No cars allowed. Visit the "Most Beautiful Corner" for photos, Shuzhuang Garden for the Piano Museum, and Haoyue Garden for the Zheng Chenggong statue.
Cost:Ferry ~35 CNY; Attractions vary
Hours:08:30 - 17:30
Eighth Seafood Market (八市)
After returning from Gulangyu, walk to the Eighth Market. It is the most authentic local market, full of fresh seafood and old-school snacks.
Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
Day 3: Artsy Coast & Sea Train
Jimei School Village (集美学村)
Founded by Tan Kah Kee. The architecture features the unique "Jiageng Style" (Western body, Chinese roof). Rent an e-bike to explore Shigu Road and the old buildings.
Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
Ten Mile Long Dike (十里长堤)
A romantic grassy bank perfect for picnics and live music. It offers a stunning view of the Xiamen Twin Towers across the water, especially at sunset.
Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
Food Recommendations
Note: Food items may contain allergens. Please confirm with restaurant staff directly
Tap copy & paste icon at the right side of food name and paste in Dianping app to find restaurants.
Satay Noodles
沙茶面
Rich broth full of generous ingredients and fresh seafood. The soup is rich, and the Gugong branch offers high cost-performance.
Ginger Duck
姜母鸭
Strong ginger aroma, meat is tender and falls off the bone. Watching the rows of clay pots cooking at the stall is spectacular.
Oyster Omelet
海蛎煎
Fresh oysters mixed with egg liquid and sweet potato starch. Texture is "Q-bouncy," crispy outside, tender inside.
Oyster Rice
海蛎捞饭
Extremely delicious with amazing value. Fresh and plump oysters served with a rich, savory sauce that isn't too salty.
Transportation Guide
Arrival in Xiamen
- Plane (Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport - XMN):
Terminals T3/T4 connected by free shuttles. Best Way: Metro Line 1 directly to city center. Taxi: 20-40 mins, ~30 CNY.Check flights via
- Train:
Xiamen Station: On Xiamen Island (City Center). Closer to attractions. Recommended.
Xiamen North Station: In Jimei (Mainland). More high-speed trains, but requires crossing the sea.Check trains via
City Transport
- Metro: Excellent coverage. Line 1 is the sightseeing line (sea view). Use Alipay.
- Cycling: Renting a bike on Huandao Road is romantic. Note: E-bikes restricted in some center areas.
Where to Stay
Zhongshan Road / Siming District
Foodie Choice. Walking distance to food streets and convenient transport. Easy access to ferry terminal.
Huandao Road
Sea View Choice. Wake up to the ocean. Beautiful scenery, but traffic-heavy in peak season and far from center.
Near Xiamen Station
Budget Choice. Great transportation links and better prices.
Essential Tips
Travel Tips
- Ferry Tickets (Crucial): Tickets to Gulangyu sell out fast. MUST book 1-2 days in advance via "Xiamen Ferry" WeChat mini-program. Tourists must use Xiagu Wharf during the day.
- Reservations: Popular spots (University, Botanical Garden) require advance booking.
- Tourist Traps: Avoid seafood stalls at Eighth Market entrance or Zhongshan Road. Beware of taxi drivers suggesting "Jinmen Tours" or "Secret Seafood Spots."
- Shopping: Prices for dried seafood/pearl tea on Gulangyu/Zhongshan Rd are inflated. Buy at local supermarkets.