Xiamen

厦门

A major coastal city and Special Economic Zone known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, modern amenities, and scenic island setting. Essential as Fujian's most developed and internationally accessible hub with excellent food, gardens, and the nearby Gulangyu Island.

Things to do

• Gulangyu Island — A car-free pedestrian island across the strait from Xiamen featuring colonial villas, art galleries, and scenic coastal paths, accessible by ferry.
• Xiamen University — One of China's most beautiful campuses with traditional architecture, lush gardens, and coastal views open to public exploration.
• Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street — Xiamen's premier shopping and dining district lined with shops, street food vendors, and historic buildings representing the city's cosmopolitan heritage.
• Wuyuanwan Park — An urban waterfront park with walking trails, sculpture installations, and views of Xiamen Bay, popular for morning tai chi and evening strolls.
• Nanputuo Temple — A centuries-old Buddhist temple nestled at the foot of Wulao Peak with vegetarian restaurant, scenic hiking trails, and panoramic city views.
• Huandao Road — A scenic 43-kilometer ring road circling the island with cycling lanes, beaches, and lookout points offering views of the Taiwan Strait.

Food to try

• Xiamen Oyster Omelette (蚝仔煎) — A savory crepe made with egg, starch, and fresh oysters, topped with sweet and spicy sauce, sold throughout street markets and small restaurants.
• Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce (春卷) — Crispy fried rolls filled with bamboo shoots, mushrooms, and sometimes shrimp, served with thick roasted peanut sauce.
• Satay Noodles (沙爹面) — Wheat noodles tossed with a rich peanut-based satay sauce, bean sprouts, and meat, reflecting the Southeast Asian influence on Xiamen cuisine.
• Squid Congee (鱿鱼粥) — Silky rice porridge topped with tender squid pieces, preserved vegetables, and century egg, served piping hot as breakfast or light meal.
• Shrimp Cake (虾饼) — A crispy fried pastry filled with shrimp paste and spices, a popular snack from street vendors and local bakeries throughout the city.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect for Mazu worship — Mazu, the sea goddess, is deeply revered in Xiamen culture; visitors should be respectful when visiting temples and during the annual Mazu pilgrimage season in spring.
• Ferry etiquette to Gulangyu — Ferries can be crowded during peak hours and holidays; arrive early, queue patiently, and be mindful of local commuters who use the route daily for work.
• Haggling at markets is expected — While Xiamen is modern and prices are often fixed in shops, street vendors and wet markets expect friendly negotiation and appreciate when visitors speak Xiamen dialect or basic Mandarin.