2026 Siming District Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

Here’s how I spent a day in Xiamen, and honestly—this was the chillest itinerary ever! Let’s dive in: First stop: Xiamen University 🌳📸 This campus is absolutely gorgeous! Think colorful gardens, dreamy old-school architecture, and alllll those perfect Insta backdrops. I loved just wandering around, soaking in the student energy, and pretending I was in a Chinese drama. (Address: 422 Siming South Road, Siming District. Opening hours: 9am–5pm.) Next up: Xiamen Twin Tower! 🌆👀 These twin towers basically define the skyline and the vibes are unreal. The observation deck? 100% worth it for those panoramic city-meets-sea views. It’s the spot to let your camera roll and get every angle—sunset hits DIFFERENT up here. Pro tip: don’t skip the café inside; their coffee is surprisingly legit and the perfect pick-me-up before heading out for more exploring. (Address: 98 Lujiang Road, Siming District. Open daily 10am–10pm.) The best part? Both spots are super close to each other, so you get max chill and zero rush. Whether you’re collecting “it girl” selfies or just hanging out with your crew, this route delivers with stunning scenery and serious city vibes. I’m calling it: relaxing in style, Xiamen edition. If you want a low-key day that’s GOT the perfect blend of dreamy history, epic skyline views, and cool café stops, you’ve gotta try this little itinerary. #itinerarycheck

Xiamen!! Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street!! Loft duplex homestay!! Super great!! The room is very clean and spacious, right outside is Shapowei, making it convenient to go anywhere. · 🌈A delightful surprise upon entering The cozy atmosphere makes you feel completely relaxed🛋 The host’s thoughtful guidance is meticulous, clearly showing where to find delicious breakfast. · 🌈Excellent location The location is really convenient, within walking distance to Twin Towers, Xiamen University, and Nanputuo Temple👣 Plus, the old streets and alleys are very safe. · 🌈Super complete facilities Big bathtub for soaking🛁 Rooftop with night views🌙 100-inch projector for watching movies at night🍿 Bathroom equipped with disposable toilet seat covers and travel-sized toiletries. · 🌈Homestay: Jushi Li 🌈Location: Jushi Li, Siming District, Xiamen

Xiamen!! Near Zhongshan Road!! Loft duplex for 4 people!! Super satisfied!! Everyone! I recently found an amazing homestay, truly worth recommending! It's right in the heart of old Xiamen city, perfect for family trips or a relaxing getaway with friends! · 🌈 Stay Experience A small living room downstairs plus two beds upstairs [comfortably fits four people✌️] My favorite parts are the bathtub and the 100-inch projector [watching movies in bed at night is super enjoyable] · 🌈 Rooftop terrace top-notch experience🌌 Sunbathing and drinking tea in the morning [feels amazing] Stargazing with late-night snacks in the evening Grilling skewers, strolling the pedestrian street [tons of takeout and milk tea options🍢🍹] · 🌈 Homestay: Xiamen Beichen Homestay 🌈 Location: Beichen Homestay, Siming District, Xiamen

Xiamen📍Slide House!! This hidden gem of a homestay is beautiful to the next level.... 🌈About the room: The room has two large beds, perfect for traveling with kids. The facilities are very thoughtful, including umbrellas, sand digging tools, and even a stroller. The kids were super happy as soon as they walked in, ideal for family trips. 🌈About the facilities: The room is very stylishly decorated and extremely comfortable to stay in, with a high-definition projector, smart toilet, and a bathroom with dry and wet separation, enhancing the quality of life. There is a housekeeper every day to clean, making it very clean, tidy, and extremely comfortable. 🌈About the service: The owner is super gentle, and the front desk staff's service attitude is amazing. They provide various travel guides, making the trip both worry-free and pleasant. There are patrols on the streets at night, so the security is really reassuring. 🌈Homestay: Xiamen Zhijing Homestay 🌈Location: Xiamen Siming District, Xiamen Zhijing Homestay

Xiamen!! Zhongshan Road!! Duplex for 4 people!! Stay for 3 consecutive days!! Ladies, I sincerely recommend this homestay in Xiamen! The location is excellent, near Zhongshan Road, Bashi Ferry Terminal, super convenient to walk to Gulangyu Island! The design is in an Instagram style, full of sunshine, perfect for families or friends to stay together. 🌈The host's service is super warm🌟 Always responsive to questions Recommended many local delicacies Helped carry luggage and offered storage 🌈The surrounding environment is very convenient🏙 Walking distance to Bashi Market and Zhongshan Road Less than a 10-minute walk to and from Gulangyu Island Close to the subway, easy to get anywhere 🌈Facilities feel really comfortable💤 Clean bedding with no odor Scenic terrace with a nice view Host helped process ingredients and thoughtfully packed them 🌈Homestay: Yunqi.Su 🌈Location: Yunqi Seaview Inn, Siming District, Xiamen (Datong Road Branch)

Xiamen!! The Island Ring Road!! It's really not Sanya! Such a great city!! 🌵A little paradise to escape the hustle and bustle of the city! You can lie in bed and watch the sea view, and see the blue sky and sea when you open the window. It is also very convenient to go to the beach! The room also has a small balcony, and the bathtub in the room is super large and comfortable. You can lie in bed and watch the sunrise by opening the electric curtains. The hotel also has a stunning infinity pool with sea views. 🌵Breakfast is very rich, and you will be full of energy after eating. The infinity pool is also a major highlight here. Although the weather is a bit cold and you dare not go into the water, the photo effect is simply amazing. Overlooking the entire sea from a high place, from the butler's reception to the delivery of luggage, the service is very good. 🌵Lying on a small chair in the sun in the afternoon, it's like time has stopped. It's a place where nature and modernity are perfectly integrated. It is recommended to all the sisters who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Bathrobes, hair dryers, bath bombs, and giant screen projections are all fully equipped! 🌵Hotel: SONHAI Seaview Hotel 🌵Location: Xiamen—Siming District—No. 2689-17 South Ring Road

Xiamen!! Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street!! Seaview bathtub!! So beautiful!! I was blown away the moment I opened the door... The azure sea view is stunning! I wish all the hotels in Xiamen would be as amazing as this one! 🌵It's located right on the bustling Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street, with cafes and snack streets just downstairs. It's only a few minutes' walk to the ferry terminal, with Gulangyu Island across the sea! Who wouldn't love this location? Amazing~ 🌵I can't get enough of the sea view from the window! I can't bear to close the curtains... The floating bathtub by the window is perfect for taking pictures! There is also a very clear projector. I'm so grateful for such a great place to stay. 🌵Hotel: Niao Island Seaview Tide Inn 🌵Location: Xiamen—Siming District—7th Floor, Haibin Building, No. 52 Lujiang Road

Only One is one of the fancy cafe or restaurant in Siming District, Xiamen. It is open from Monday to Sunday at 10:00-23:30 PM. I love the ambiance of this cafe. Food is great as well as the view. If you visit this place I recommend you take a taxi or didi car. You have to walk up just to reach this cafe and I think it's better to go there in the evening or at night. We went there like at noon and we just walked so we were perspiring but the scenery of its place is worth it. It has a spacious area so you won't be run out of tables or seats. You can choose outdoor or indoor. At night, outdoor is the best for sure. The staff is also good. Just I wish, we went there in the evening. It would be better. #tripinspired #tripmoments #foodie #food #foodietrip #cafe #restaurant #niceview #xiamen #china #xiamentravel #foodislife

I brought a friend to Xiamen, and we passed by the Jianfa Yuexiang Center. The aroma of Sichuan cuisine wafting from the mall drew us in. We went to Zhou Mapo Sichuan Stir-Fry King (Xiamen Siming Jianfa Yuexiang Store). We arrived at lunchtime on a weekday, and the restaurant was already nearly full. After ordering, we were blown away by the delicious food. 🥢Signature Dishes|These are Must-Try 🧆Mapo Tofu: Served piping hot, the tofu was soft and tender with a hint of numbing spiciness. A few spoonfuls mixed into rice, and we devoured the whole bowl. 🐟Mapo Signature Pickled Cabbage Fish: The fish slices were tender, the pickled cabbage crisp, and the broth tangy and spicy. My friend, who can't handle spice well, still ate several bites. 🥘Dry Pot Cabbage: The cabbage was crisp and sweet, and the pork belly was rendered with fragrant oil. 🧆Steamed Egg with Minced Meat: The egg flavor was rich and delicious, a perfect accompaniment to rice. 🍗Bestselling Crispy Duck: Crispy skin, served with plum sauce and passion fruit sauce, perfect for those who can't handle too much spice. 🍚Self-Service Condiments|Unlimited Refills: Rice, drinks, fruit, and popcorn are all self-service. The plum sauce was delicious, and the rice was cooked to the perfect consistency; my friend had two more bowls. 👍Suitable for Students and Working Professionals: Two of us ordered four dishes, great value for money. Currently, there are nearly two hundred stores, specializing in fast-food style stir-fries. 📍Location|1st Floor, Jianfa Yuexiang Center 🚇Transportation: The mall has its own parking lot with available spaces. ⏰Opening Hours: 11:00-21:30 🌟Summary: Zhou Mapo is the kind of restaurant you choose when you don't know what to eat. Bringing friends here isn't about being amazing, but it definitely won't disappoint. 🍚

In July and August, Xiamen is scorching hot with intense UV rays at the beach and hot sea breezes. Be sure to pack a sun hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and a sun/rain umbrella! - If you're visiting during a holiday, Xiamen gets crowded. Remember to book tickets in advance and plan ahead to avoid pitfalls. A sincere tip: Xiamen isn't great for a self-driving tour. Parking is difficult in many places, and it's very congested during peak hours (it's better to choose public transportation). If taking the high-speed train, choose [Xiamen Station]—it's right in the city center! [Xiamen North Station] is too far and inconvenient. When taking a taxi, never hail one on the street. They might take you to unknown attractions, which not only costs money but also wastes your time. Many attractions in Xiamen are free! Don't just wander around; check out the free attractions first. For accommodation, I recommend the Siming District, such as near Zhongshan Road or the train station. Don't mix up sunrise and sunset spots: go to Huangcuo for sunrise and Baicheng for sunset (you can also watch the sunset from the Mountain-Sea Trail). Avoid the flower tea and snowflake crisps! They taste terrible when you bring them home 😭 and a small amount costs hundreds of yuan! Gulangyu ferry tickets include round-trip travel, and boats run 24 hours a day, but remember to book your tickets 3 days in advance. There are 6 or 7 ferry terminals for Gulangyu, and some are far away! Don't worry about remembering them all; just go from [Dongdu Terminal → Sanqiutian Terminal]. And here are some foods I tried ⬇️ 👉🏻 Haoshilai Seafood Restaurant: The ingredients are very fresh and prepared to order 🔪, and the environment has a great atmosphere for dining out 🥃. The portions are generous, the owner is honest, and it's even Michelin-recommended. Signature dishes: oyster rice, steamed tiger grouper. 👉🏻 Satay noodles: Freshly cooked broth, fragrant! Generous toppings. 👉🏻 Peanut soup: A dessert with a very unique local flavor, refreshing and sweet. 👉🏻 Xiamen taro buns: A snack that Xiamen locals have always loved. 👉🏻 Four-fruit soup: It tastes great!

Fitting the whole Minnan region into a tea gift box is truly touching✨ Red brick ancient houses, egret narcissus, intangible cultural heritage national trend packaging, over 30 appearance patents, multiple designs winning Xiamen cultural and creative awards, both beautiful and culturally rich Sourced from the core tea region of Anxi, including Tieguanyin, rock tea, and white tea. The 10g custom tea bags make every cup a delight. Full-chain quality control with inspection reports for every batch, 99.8% factory pass rate, perfect for gifting with confidence Divided into three main series: daily self-drinking gift boxes, cultural creative souvenirs, and corporate business customization. There’s also a pop-up store in the Gulangyu scenic area, and a 1,200㎡ showroom for on-site tea tasting and viewing samples Hardworking people, flavorful tea—when bringing souvenirs from Xiamen, choose this local Minnan tea gift brand🍵 Sunshine Art Museum, first floor, Century-old Minnan tea room

The former site of the Xiamen Municipal People's Government is located at 2 Gongyuan South Road, Siming District, on the west side of the south gate of Zhongshan Park. It was formerly the Xingquanyong Circuit Intendant's Office (governing Xinghua and Quanzhou prefectures and Yongchun sub-prefecture during the Qing Dynasty), which moved to Xiamen in the fifth year of the Yongzheng reign (1727) and was completed in the fourth year of the Qianlong reign (1739). During the Opium War in 1841, it was occupied by British forces and converted into a consulate. It was reclaimed in 1863, and in 1864, Circuit Intendant Zeng Xiande rebuilt it and erected the "Stele Record of the Reconstruction of the Xingquanyong Circuit Intendant's Office" to document the history. Since then, the site has served as the headquarters for the Republican-era military and civil government and the municipal government. In 1952, an office building was constructed here to serve as the office of the Xiamen Municipal Government of the People's Republic of China. After the municipal government moved to a new location in 1988, the site was successively used by institutions such as the Municipal Library and the Children's Library. The "Stele Record of the Reconstruction of the Xingquanyong Circuit Intendant's Office" currently preserved in the courtyard (restored and re-erected in 1991) is an important physical relic witnessing Xiamen's modern struggle for sovereignty and the evolution of its urban administration.

It's been open for over 30 years and is super popular! Remember to visit outside of peak meal hours! Content is authorized, please do not flag!

It's easy to perceive Xiamen as one compact coastal city: the sea, palm trees, Gulangyu, and old villas. But once you leave the tourist center, the picture changes quite dramatically. In some places, almost all the classics of a first trip are close by. In others, there's a modern city and bays. And in others, the red-brick houses of Minnan, mountains, and no sense of a resort at all. Here are 5 districts that show the different sides of Xiamen 👇 01. SIMING | Siming The Main Tourist District of Xiamen If you're visiting for the first time, Siming is where I would start exploring the city. Zongshan Road, Nanputuo Temple, Xiamen University, Shapowei, Zengcuo'an, and a significant portion of Huandao Road are all located here. It's also a convenient starting point for a trip to Gulangyu. Siming itself is very diverse. In the morning, you can stroll between temples and old quarters, sit in a modern cafe in Shapowei during the day, and end up by the sea in the evening. 🌊 Atmosphere: Old Town + Tourist Center + Coastal Area 📍 Why go: For almost all of Xiamen's classics 🏨 Who to stay in: Best for a first trip 💡 Key difference: Maximum interesting places with minimal logistics. ⸻ 02. HULI | Huli City Modern Xiamen As we head north, the city changes. There are fewer historic quarters here and more modern urban environments: residential complexes, offices, retail spaces, and parks. One of the reasons tourists come here is Wuyuan Bay | Wuyuan City and the surrounding green areas. Xiamen Gaoqi Airport is also located here. 🏙 Atmosphere: modern, spacious, casual 🌿 Why go: Wuyuan Bay, parks, waterfront walks 👀 Who's into it: Those who want to see more than just the touristy version of the city 💡 Key difference: While Siming shows Xiamen to travelers, Huli is much more like Xiamen for living. ⸻ 03. JIMEI | Huli School Village Architecture + history + student district Now we're leaving the island part altogether. I would definitely add Jimei to a 4-5-day trip because it's visually noticeably different from central Xiamen. The highlight here is Jimei School Village | Huli School Village. The red roofs, towers, arcades, water, and characteristic Jiageng architecture create a distinct character of the district. And then you can head to Dashe | A village where the traditional red-brick houses of Minnan have been preserved. 📷 Atmosphere: historic, tranquil, student-friendly 🏯 Why go: architecture, photography, walking 🕐 Budget: at least half a day, preferably most of the day 💡 Key difference: Jimei feels almost like a mini-trip within a trip. ⸻ 04. HAICANG | Haicang (海沧区) Spacious and non-touristy Haicang is located on the mainland. You don't need to come here for a list of five must-see attractions. That's the whole point. Modern residential areas, parks, waterfront promenades, wide open spaces, and everyday city life. If you're in Xiamen for two days, I'd easily skip Haicang. If you're staying for a week and want to see the city without the tourist trappings, it becomes much more interesting. 🌊 Atmosphere: local, modern, calm 🚶 Why go: parks, embankments, everyday city 🏨 Is it worth staying: only on your first trip if the location fits your specific plans 💡 Main difference: here, the feeling of walking from one attraction to another almost disappears. ⸻ 05. TONG'AN | Old Minnan + nature The most unusual option in this top five. Tong'an is located further from the tourist center, so you won't stumble upon it by accident. But here, you can find a completely different southern Fujian: traditional Minnan culture, temples, old quarters, and natural areas. ⛰ Atmosphere: suburban, traditional, historical 🏮 Why go: culture, temples, nature, and mountain scenery 🚗 Note: the distances are longer, so you need to plan your route separately 💡 Key difference: in some places, it's hard to believe this is still Xiamen with its palm trees, beaches, and touristy Gulangyu. 🔵 WHICH AREA SHOULD I CHOOSE? To put it simply: SIMING → first time, sights, sea, and convenience HULI → modern city and Wuyuan Bay JIMEI → architecture, history, and photos HAICANG → local life, space, and minimal tourists TONG'AN → traditional Minnan and nature For a first trip of 3-5 days, I would stay in Siming and allocate a separate day to Jimei. And one more thing: I deliberately didn't list Gulangyu as a separate district. Tourists truly perceive it as a separate world, but administratively, the island belongs to Siming. So if you want to see Xiamen beyond its postcard-perfect side, the plan is quite simple: stay in Siming, take a day trip to Jimei, and then add other districts based on your interests and available time.

Xiamen International Art Week is back! It is life, technology, and art. Life provides inspiration for art. Technology empowers life. And art injects soul into technology. Visiting an exhibition is like living a new life. The exhibition is divided into 5 major sections, bringing together 129 designers/artists and over 100 works. 📸 Exhibition highlights: 1⃣️ Art touches the world: showcasing unique art through paintings, sculptures, and videos. 2⃣️ Fashion lights up life: using design to showcase a different kind of life, and using life to showcase a different kind of design. 3⃣️ Urban-rural harmony: showcasing the beautiful picture of harmonious urban-rural coexistence through images, films, and modeling. 4⃣️ Cultural heritage and innovation: enabling the digital reproduction and "digital resurrection" of intangible cultural heritage and traditional culture. 5⃣️ Technology creates the future: showcasing the tension of art through short videos, digital works, digital installations, digital projections, and more. This is a feast of AI, VR, and interactive installations that reconstructs the boundaries of perception through digital technology. It is also a multi-dimensional art symphony of sight, sound, and smell. 📅 Exhibition dates: April 25–May 20, 2026 (closed on Mondays) 📍 Address: 95 Tiyu Road, Siming District, Xiamen (Xiamen Art Museum) 🎫 Admission: Free

​📌 Spirit and Object Wander—Imagination of Objects and Eras 117 precious artifacts gathered on Egret Island, 17 heavyweight national first-class cultural relics assembled 📅 Exhibition Dates: July 10, 2026–October 11, 2026 ⏰ Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday 9:00 AM–5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM) Weekends and public holidays 9:00 AM–8:00 PM (last entry at 7:30 PM) (Note: Closed on Mondays) 🏛️ Venue: Xiamen Museum, 1st Floor, Temporary Exhibition Hall A 📍 Address: Cultural and Art Center, 95 Tiyu Road, Siming District, Xiamen No reservation required, free admission

My best friend and I met up in Shapowei over the weekend. We initially planned to just find a random shop, but we were drawn in by an unassuming little storefront on Daxue Road. Climbing the stairs, we discovered a large rooftop terrace. The midday sun was perfect – not too hot, not too cold – and a gentle breeze from the typhoon shelter was very pleasant. 🍲Crab Hot Pot with Roe | Freshly Stir-fried Crab with Abundant Roe, the Congee Base is Golden When the hot pot was served, we both exclaimed in surprise. A whole crab, overflowing with roe, lay in the clay pot. The crab roe was so plentiful it was almost overflowing. The server immediately prepared it, first stir-frying the crab and other ingredients in the pot, the sizzling sound and aroma rising together, then pouring in white wine and lighting it – flames instantly danced around the pot. After the flames died down, the congee base was poured in, the golden broth blending perfectly with the crab roe. One spoonful, and your mouth is filled with the aroma of crab. After finishing the pot, you can add more broth for free, and continue to cook other vegetables – two ways to enjoy one pot! 🦪Extra-large oysters|Plump and juicy, every bite bursts with freshness The oysters were ridiculously large. A quick dip in the broth and they were bursting with flavor – the sweetness of the sea combined with the tender oyster meat was simply irresistible. 🥢These side dishes are also worth ordering We ordered clams, which were plump and very clean. The baby bok choy soaked up the crab broth's delicious flavor. The best part was the Xiamen instant noodles; cooked last, they absorbed all the broth, so flavorful we even drank the soup clean. The large fried dough sticks are also a must-order; dipped in the crab broth, the crispy dough sticks and rich broth complemented each other perfectly. ☀️Rooftop|Shapowei at noon, tranquil and comfortable After our meal, we leaned back in our chairs, enjoying the breeze. Shapowei at noon was very peaceful; fishing boats were moored in the harbor, and sunlight shimmered on the water. No need to specifically look for a good spot; you can see it just by sitting on the rooftop. The meal was perfect in both taste and atmosphere. 🌟Summary: My best friend and I had a gout-inducing hot pot on the rooftop in Shapowei. The crabs were full of roe, the oysters were plump, and the instant noodles soaked up the crab broth. We could also enjoy the breeze and watch the daytime scenery of Shapowei. The rooftop wasn't crowded, and the ingredients were freshly cooked. After eating, all I wanted to say was: I'll definitely come back! 🦀

It's pretty easy to pick a great hotel in Xiamen... and end up in a terrible location. It’s not usually because a certain neighborhood is "bad." The city is just very spread out—part of it is on an island, part is on the mainland, and the must-see spots for a first-time visitor are scattered all over the place. So, a hotel with a great price tag might unexpectedly mean an extra hour of commuting every single day. Here is what I would check before booking 👇 ❌ 1. Deep in the mainland If you're visiting Xiamen for the first time and plan to see the classic sights, staying far from the island isn't the most convenient choice. Zhongshan Road, Shapowei, Nanputuo Temple, the coastal areas, and the ferries to Gulangyu are much easier to access when your home base is closer to your main itinerary spots. When the mainland makes sense: if there's a specific place you need to be, you're on a strict budget, or your itinerary doesn't revolve around the tourist hub at all. For a typical first trip, I'd start by looking in the Siming District | 思明区. ❌ 2. Near the airport for the entire 3–5 days Being close to the airport sounds convenient, but you really only need it on your arrival or departure days. If you have an early flight, spending your last night here makes perfect sense. But making the airport area your base for the whole trip just because it's "close to the plane" makes little sense. Most of your trip will be spent traveling to the sea, old neighborhoods, restaurants, and attractions—not the airport. ❌ 3. Far from the subway This point is easy to underestimate. A 1–2 km walk looks like nothing on a map. But if you have to take a long hike to public transport every day before even crossing the city, the location quickly gets annoying. Especially in summer, when Xiamen gets incredibly hot and humid. Don't just trust the "close to subway" label in the hotel description. Open a map and check the actual walking route from the hotel entrance to the station. ❌ 4. Right in the tourist epicenter of Zhongshan Road I'd definitely include Zhongshan Road | 中山路 in a first-time itinerary. However, staying right in the busiest part of the area isn't for everyone. It's packed with shops, restaurants, tourists, and nightlife. If you love stepping out of your hotel right into the middle of the action, it's a great option. If you prefer peace and quiet after a busy day, it's better to look for accommodation within walking distance of Zhongshan Road, rather than right on the main tourist strip. ❌ 5. On Gulangyu for the whole trip This is a trap that's especially easy to fall into. Gulangyu | 鼓浪屿 has an incredible vibe: historic villas, lush greenery, narrow streets, and the sea. Spending a night or two here can be a fantastic idea. But using the island as your sole base for exploring all of Xiamen is far less convenient. You'll be at the mercy of the ferries, and any day spent in other parts of the city will start and end with extra logistics. It's better to treat Gulangyu as a separate leg of your trip, while keeping your main home base on Xiamen Island. ❌ 6. "Seaside hotel" without checking the map This is probably one of the most deceptive phrases. "Next to the sea" ≠ "conveniently located." You might get a gorgeous ocean view, only to discover that the subway is miles away, there's a lack of basic infrastructure nearby, and you constantly have to commute long distances to all your planned spots. Before booking, I would pin at least these on a map: 📍 the nearest subway station 📍 Zhongshan Road 📍 Shapowei 📍 Nanputuo Temple 📍 the right ferry terminal for the trip to Gulangyu And only *then* start looking at hotels. ✅ SO WHERE SHOULD YOU STAY? For a first trip, it makes the most sense to start your search in the Siming District | 思明区, and then pick a specific spot tailored to your itinerary rather than just a general area. If you want restaurants and city vibes, that's one location. If the ocean and scenic walks are your top priority, that's another. If you plan to travel around a lot, being near the subway becomes paramount. 💡 The golden rule of Xiamen: draft a rough itinerary first, then book your hotel. Sometimes, spending a bit more on accommodation in the right spot ends up being a much better value than a cheaper option that requires a long, annoying commute every morning.

Looking for a different side of China? Skip the imperial palaces of Beijing and the soaring skyscrapers of Shanghai, and set your sights on Xiamen | 厦门. It’s a laid-back coastal city in Fujian province, serving up ocean vibes, islands, palm trees, historic architecture, and long promenades. The pace of life here is noticeably slower. I’d recommend coming here for the chill atmosphere rather than rushing from one tourist trap to the next. 📍 HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED For a first-time visit, plan for 3 to 4 days. If you want to squeeze in some beach time, enjoy long strolls, and avoid the exhausting "10 sights a day" hustle, you can easily stretch your stay to 5 days. 🏨 WHERE TO STAY For your first trip, your best bet is Siming District | 思明区. It’s the hub for most of the major tourist hotspots. When booking a hotel, don't just look at the price tag—factor in the distance to the subway. Xiamen is pretty sprawled out, so scoring a cheap room in the middle of nowhere might totally backfire. 🏝 WHAT TO SEE 1. Gulangyu | 鼓浪屿 Hands down the most famous spot in Xiamen. It’s a tiny island packed with historic villas, lush green streets, and killer ocean views. Pro tip: Tourists have to use specific ferry routes. Be sure to double-check your current departure port and snag your tickets in advance, especially on weekends or during Chinese public holidays. 2. Shapowei | 沙坡尾 A former dockland area that’s been transformed into a super aesthetic, trendy urban neighborhood. Head here to hit up cool cafes, boutique shops, art spaces, snap some Insta-worthy pics, or just wander around and see where the day takes you. 3. Nanputuo Temple | 南普陀寺 One of Xiamen's most iconic Buddhist temple complexes. It’s super easy to pair this up with a visit to the nearby Xiamen University and its surrounding neighborhoods. 4. Huandao Road | 环岛路 A scenic coastal road stretching along the ocean. Don’t stress about hitting one specific "must-see" spot here. Just rent a bike or pick a gorgeous stretch of the coastline and take a walk. 5. Zhongshan Road | 中山路 A historic commercial district showing off that classic Southern Chinese architecture. Swing by in the late afternoon or evening, and make sure to ditch the main drag for the side alleys. Honestly, the backstreets are often way cooler than the main tourist strip. 🍜 WHAT TO EAT Since Xiamen is right on the water, the local food scene is all about fresh seafood. Keep an eye out for these famous local eats: 🥢 shacha noodles | 沙茶面 🥢 oyster omelette | 海蛎煎 🥢 local fish and seafood dishes 🚇 GETTING AROUND The easiest way to navigate the city is by mixing the subway with DiDi. Make sure to set up Alipay and/or WeChat Pay beforehand. For getting around, you’ll definitely want a Chinese map app: local routes, transit info, and spots to eat are usually displayed way better there. 🌤 WHEN TO VISIT Spring and autumn are your best bets for comfortable, long walks. Summers in Xiamen are hot and super sticky. Plus, since Fujian is on the coast, it’s prone to typhoons—so definitely keep a close eye on the weather forecast before you fly out. 💡 And the golden rule: don't rush Xiamen. This is the kind of city where half the magic happens between the main attractions: chilling on the boardwalk, getting lost in old neighborhoods, wandering the narrow alleys of Gulangyu, or just kicking back at a random cafe you stumbled upon. Choose Xiamen if you want to spice up your China itinerary with ocean breezes, southern vibes, and a few days escaping the typical mega-city grind. 🌴

Xiamen, a coastal city woven with sea breezes and artistic vibes. These 9 spots will help you understand the romance of Egret Island, where mountains meet the sea~ · 1⃣Island Ring Road 🏠Location: Huandao South Road, Siming District 🎫Ticket: Free to access; Hulishan Fortress charges a separate fee of CNY 25 ⏰Opening hours: Open all day ✨The world's most beautiful marathon track, a 31 km five-color coastline. A one-stop experience for cycling, sea views, and lawn camping · 2⃣Gulangyu 🏠Location: Gulangyu, Siming District 🎫Ticket: Round-trip ferry ticket for non-local tourists: CNY 35 ⏰Opening hours: Island streets are open all day; paid attractions are open 7:30 AM–6:00 PM ✨A World Heritage island, an artistic sanctuary with no motor vehicles. Century-old red-brick villas blend with blue seas and sandy beaches. A slow stroll here is incredibly healing · 3⃣Huangcuo Beach 🏠Location: Huangcuo Beach, Huandao South Road, Siming District 🎫Ticket: Free ⏰Opening hours: Open 24 hours a day ✨Widely recognized as the best spot for sunrise in Xiamen. Fewer crowds, fine sand, and an expansive sea view. Wait for the morning sun to rise from the sea, or catch the orange sunset in the evening. The atmosphere is perfect · 4⃣Shapowei 🏠Location: Shapowei, Siming District 🎫Ticket: The area is free; some special exhibitions charge a separate fee ⏰Opening hours: The area is open all day ✨An artistic hub where the old meets the new. Fishing boats, colorful arcade buildings, creative shops, and Minnan snacks coexist. An excellent spot for sunset photos · 5⃣Xiamen University 🏠Location: Siming South Road, Siming District 🎫Ticket: Free (online reservation required) ⏰Opening hours: Weekdays: 10:30 AM–5:30 PM; winter/summer breaks/weekends: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM ✨One of the most beautiful coastal campuses in the country. Features the Furong Tunnel graffiti and palm-lined avenues. Nanputuo Temple and the beach are right outside. Academic atmosphere meets sea breezes · 6⃣Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street 🏠Location: Zhongshan Road, Siming District 🎫Ticket: Free ⏰Opening hours: The area is open all day ✨A classic commercial center in Xiamen that leads directly to the sea. It gathers traditional Minnan snacks and time-honored shops. Perfect for a stroll · 7⃣Nanputuo Temple 🏠Location: Siming South Road, Siming District ⏰Opening hours: 8:00 AM–5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM) ✨A thousand-year-old Minnan temple backed by Wulao Peak, nestled between the mountains and the sea. You can receive free incense for blessings. Famous for its vegetarian cakes. Hike to the top for a panoramic view of Xiamen University and the entire bay · 8⃣Xiamen Botanical Garden 🏠Location: Huyuan Road, Siming District 🎫Ticket: Adults: CNY 30; students: half price (CNY 15) ⏰Opening hours: 6:30 AM–6:00 PM (closes at 5:30 PM in winter) ✨A 5A-rated scenic spot. The light during the misting time in the Rainforest World is like a fairyland. The succulent and giant cactus garden is perfect for photos. A hidden green paradise in the city · 9⃣Jimei School Village 🏠Location: Yinjiang Road, Jimei District 🎫Ticket: The area is free; Aoyuan and the Chen Jiageng Memorial Hall require free reservations for visits ⏰Opening hours: Dragon Boat Pond and Ten-Mile Embankment are open all day ✨A century-old school village built by Chen Jiageng. Features Chinese-Western fusion Jiageng architecture, Dragon Boat Pond, and the sea-view metro line. A niche, fresh, and artistic spot A treasure of a travel destination worth visiting again and again

This summer, the Xiamen Museum has teamed up with 18 cultural and museum institutions across the country to bring 117 precious artifacts to Egret Island, including 17 heavyweight national first-class cultural relics. Many of these are considered one-of-a-kind globally. This collection of "magical artifacts," which carry the whimsical ideas of the ancients, has inspired many hilarious memes. The exhibition title is taken from the famous line "Spirit and Object Wander" (Shen Yu Wu You) in "The Literary Mind and the Carving of Dragons," symbolizing how the ancients used objects to express their unconstrained spiritual imagination. The special exhibition innovatively adopts a reverse narrative, tracing back from Ming and Qing dynasty artifacts to prehistoric remains, exploring the original intentions of our ancestors' creations layer by layer. It uses the various creatures depicted on the artifacts as the core thread to connect the aesthetics and fantasies of different eras. 📌 Spirit and Object Wander—Imagination of Objects and Eras 📅 Exhibition Dates: July 10, 2026–October 11, 2026 ⏰ Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday 9:00 AM–5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM); weekends and public holidays 9:00 AM–8:00 PM (last entry at 7:30 PM) (Note: Closed on Mondays) 🏛️ Venue: Xiamen Museum, 1st Floor, Temporary Exhibition Hall A 📍 Address: Cultural and Art Center, 95 Tiyu Road, Siming District, Xiamen No reservation required, free admission. In addition to this new exhibition, the Xiamen Museum has many other exhibitions worth seeing. On the second floor, there is the Yinchuan Historical Relics Exhibition from Ningxia. Many collections I've seen at the Ningxia Museum are also "visiting" Xiamen. Artifacts from the Western Xia Imperial Tombs site and stones from the Helan Mountain rock carvings bring the charm of that mysterious kingdom in Western Xia. Additionally, the Xiamen History and Fujian-Taiwan Relations exhibition halls also introduce the unique history and customs of this city. This scorching summer, it is well worth spending an afternoon at the Xiamen Museum.

🏨 Accommodation: Near the Botanical Garden in Siming District (convenient for getting around) Day 1: Xingfu Road – Zhongshan Road – Eighth Market Day 2: Botanical Garden (Rainforest & Succulent Area) – Xiamen University – White City Beach – Yanwu Bridge – SM – Shapowei Day 3: Zhonggu Ropeway (Highly recommended! It's very comfortable to ride the cable car and enjoy the breeze while taking in the mountain, sea, and city views) – Jimei School Village (It's huge, I recommend renting an e-bike) – Shili Changdi Day 4: Gulangyu (If you have time, you must visit the Organ Art Center; the performance is stunning) – Wuyuan Bay (Sailing out to sea is great) – Island Ring Road ("One Country, Two Systems" Beach & Huangcuo Beach) 🍲 Food recommendations: Dongdu A-Zhong Pickled Fruit (super delicious); Haokouwei Fried Crab Restaurant (oysters and fried crab are both very fresh); Chashanpai; Auntie She's Peanut Soup; HZ Pizza (the mocha crust Thai spicy shrimp is delicious) 💡 Tips: We generally headed out after 10:30 AM in the morning or after 2:30 PM in the afternoon, so the itinerary wasn't too rushed. Xiamen in the summer is really hot and sunny, so be sure to pack sun protection when you travel!

We always ask people whether they prefer the beach or the mountains, but for me, summer is all about the beach, while the mountains are better suited to colder weather—especially since I'll probably be hiking. I love them both equally; it just depends on where I am and how I feel that particular day. Imagine the blue waves crashing onto the sandy shore, the water glittering under the sunlight. It's a sight that's only possible when it isn't winter. If the sea were frozen over, I'm sure it would feel dull and gloomy instead. You wouldn't hear the seagulls calling or the birds chirping, as many of them would have migrated or gone quiet for the season. To be honest, I'm not someone who visits the beach much in my home country. But whenever I'm overseas, something changes. I instantly feel more alive when I see palm trees swaying in the wind, cyclists riding along the promenade, dog owners bringing their dogs to play in the sand, and rows of colourful umbrellas sheltering people soaking up the sun. There are sandcastles, children laughing as they run along the shore, and a carefree atmosphere that makes everything feel so youthful and refreshing. Summer is the perfect time for beaches. The last thing I expect from China is a beach because I thought they’ll be a mountain country! This beach called Xiamen Coconut Wind Village Beach in Xiamen is lovely and honestly there’s plenty of nice beaches in Xiamen, which makes it a unique destination in China. They even have a night market with small stalls for people to eat at. It’s open daily! Address: 厦门椰风寨沙滩 Xiamen Coconut Wind Village Beach 厦门市思明区环岛南路4567-22号 No. 4567-22 Ring Island South Road, Siming District, Xiamen City #mytraveldiary #beach #travel #summer #mountains #takeflight #flynhellaswag #jiaowojiejie #underratedspots

Xiamen is an absolute foodie paradise, and Homeme18 Restaurant is a hidden gem you’ll want to bookmark for your next culinary adventure! Whether you’re craving comfort food or innovative plates, this spot is making major waves on the local scene. Homeme18 Restaurant 📍 18 Hubin North Road, Siming District, Xiamen If you’re on the hunt for must-try dishes, don’t skip their creamy truffle mushroom pasta—silky and umami-packed! For those who love fusion, the homemade beef burger with local Fujian flavors is legit addictive. The dessert game is strong here too: their chiffon cake and matcha lava tart get rave reviews. The vibe? Think cozy, contemporary with warm lighting and indie tunes—perfect for brunch with friends or chill dinner dates. 🕙 Opening Hours: 11:30 AM - 9:30 PM Homeme18 nails that sweet spot between comfort and creativity. Their dedication to quality ingredients (lots sourced locally) and a changing seasonal menu makes every visit feel brand new. Pro tip: Try to snag a window seat for a great people-watching spot, and don’t be shy about asking the staff for their latest seasonal recommendations! #Xiamen #FoodieFinds #ChinaEats #LocalFlavors #TravelEats

3-day itinerary👇 Day 1: Xiamen Botanical Garden ➡️ Zhonggu Ropeway ➡️ Nanputuo Temple ➡️ Xiamen University ➡️ White City Beach ➡️ Shapowei ➡️ Dayuchuan · Authentic Xiamen Cuisine Day 2: Island Ring Road ➡️ Gulangyu ➡️ Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street ➡️ Eighth Market Day 3: Jimei School Village ➡️ Shigu Road ➡️ Dragon Boat Pond ➡️ Shili Changdi Accommodation 🏨 ✔️ Zengcuo'an Island Ring Road area: Many guesthouse options, strong artsy vibe, open your door to see the coastline and beach ✔️ Around Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street: Located in the heart of the old town, convenient transportation, easy to get anywhere, close to the ferry terminal for Gulangyu Food & souvenirs 🍱 🉑 Dayuchuan · Authentic Xiamen Cuisine: Not far from Xiamen University and the Shapowei shelter dock. A 20-year-old shop with a very authentic local charm. The seafood is fresh, and there is a rich selection of dishes. The signature ginger duck, abalone and shrimp congee, and steamed tiger grouper all taste great. 🉑 Jinhaiwan · Xiamen Seafood Cuisine: Near Xiamen University, focusing on affordable seafood and authentic Minnan home-style dishes. The local mud crabs, squid, and fresh shrimp congee have generous portions and great taste. 🉑 Heji Satay Noodles: The broth is the shop's secret, slow-cooked recipe. The peanut aroma is rich and mellow, and the texture is smooth without being greasy. In addition to the signature satay noodles, the worm jelly and oyster omelet are also very authentic. 🉑 Songfuli Souvenirs: The shop has a huge variety of pastries. The signature molten tea cakes have a crust so flaky it crumbles, with a rich tea aroma that isn't cloying. Pineapple cakes, toffee, and ma lao (peanut brittle) are all very authentic Minnan snacks. Transportation 🚇 👉 Arrival ✈️ Gaoqi International Airport (on the island): Metro Line 1 goes directly to Zhongshan Road and Zhenhai Road. You can also take a taxi to Zhongshan Road, which isn't too far. 🚆 Xiamen Station (Siming District, on the island): Not far from Zhongshan Road by metro or taxi. 🚄 Xiamen North Station (Jimei, off the island): Main station for high-speed trains. 👉 Getting around Xiamen's metro, buses, taxis, and shared bikes are all quite convenient. For example, the attractions on the first day are not far from each other, so walking 🚶‍♀️ or cycling are both fine. For slightly further distances, you can take the metro, bus, or taxi. Be sure to avoid peak hours for buses and taxis, especially near popular attractions. You need to take a ferry ⛴️ to get to Gulangyu. Attractions 🏯 📍 Xiamen Botanical Garden: The botanical garden is full of greenery. The mist in the rainforest area feels like a fairyland, and the giant tropical plants are great for photos. It is cool and comfortable to walk around. 📍 Nanputuo Temple: Simple and solemn, with red walls and flying eaves that have a lot of charm. The temple is quiet and peaceful. You can get free incense to pray for blessings. Remember to dress appropriately. 📍 Xiamen University: Nestled between mountains and the sea, the distinctive Jiageng architecture is elegant and beautiful. Furong Tunnel is full of graffiti, and the campus atmosphere is quiet and artsy. 📍 Shapowei: Transformed from an old fishing port, the shelter dock is lined with fishing boats and artsy shops. In the evening, with the breeze blowing, the blend of old and new scenery is very charming. 📍 Gulangyu: Take a boat to Gulangyu. This island, which has no motor vehicles, is full of historic villas and quiet alleys, and is full of artsy vibes everywhere.

📍 Address: Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian, China 🏮 Ambiance / Facilities: A traditional Fujian seafood restaurant with a relaxed, no-frills atmosphere where the food does all the talking. Fresh seafood, generous portions, and surprisingly affordable prices make this a must-visit for anyone in Xiamen. 🌟 Highlights: Every single dish was outstanding, but what truly amazed me was the value for money. The crab was incredibly fresh and sweet, the lobster was perfectly cooked, and the famous Buddha Jumps Over the Wall was rich, comforting, and packed with premium ingredients. The biggest surprise, however, was the Char Siu (BBQ Pork). It was absolutely phenomenal—perfectly caramelized, incredibly juicy, and bursting with flavor. Without question, it's one of the top three Char Siu dishes I've ever had anywhere in the world. 💰 Average Price per Person: ¥250–500 (depending on seafood selection) ⭐ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) If you're looking for authentic Fujian cuisine with exceptional seafood and unbelievable value, A Zhong Shi Fang is an easy recommendation. It's the kind of restaurant that reminds you why Xiamen is one of China's great food cities. 🦀🦞🥢🍖🍲😋🇨🇳💯✨👏 #Xiamen #FujianCuisine #Seafood #MichelinGuide #ChineseFood #CharSiu #Lobster #Crab #BuddhaJumpsOverTheWall #Foodie #TripCom #WorthEveryBite #HiddenGem #TravelChina #BestMeals

1. Sili Satay Noodles: Located at No. 146 Binlang Xili, Siming District, this is a long-standing noodle shop in Xiamen. The satay broth is rich with garlic flavor, and the satay sauce is mellow and slightly spicy. You must add fish balls and pork liver. The ingredients are fresh. Although the environment is simple, it's full of local atmosphere. You may need to queue during peak hours, but the table turnover is fast. 2. Jukou Mixed Noodles: Tucked away in an alley off Zhongshan Pedestrian Street, this is a long-established shop. The peanut butter-based sauce is incredibly fragrant, and the noodles are chewy and smooth. You can pair them with freshly cooked seafood soup and choose from over 10 toppings. However, it gets crowded and there's often a line, so keep that in mind if you're in a rush. 3. 1980 Roasted Meat Zongzi: The Zhongshan Road branch is located at No. 353 Zhongshan Road, Siming District, and has been open for over 40 years. Their signature roasted meat zongzi features classic Minnan flavors, packed with rich fillings like pork belly, chestnuts, shiitake mushrooms, shrimp, and dried scallops. It's savory, soft, and sticky. Dipping it in sweet chili sauce is incredibly satisfying! It's the same zongzi featured in Jay Chou's song "Healing Roasted Meat Zongzi." 4. Sibei Te Xiang Bao: Located on Siming North Road, Siming District, this shop has been open for over 30 years. They offer both savory and sweet flavors. The bread is so soft it pulls apart, while the bottom is crispy and crunchy. It's full of milky aroma and tastes best fresh out of the oven. It's a favorite among long-time Xiamen locals. 5. A-Jie Five-Spice: Located in Xiamen's Eighth Market, this shop has been visited by celebrities like Nicholas Tse and Wilber Pan. Their five-spice rolls have a crispy outer skin with a savory filling of pork, sweet onions, and more. They taste excellent when paired with chili sauce or sweet chili sauce. At CNY 4 per roll, it's a great value. 6. Zhu Ji Shredded Chicken: This is a perennial favorite in the Eighth Market with long lines. The chicken is shredded finely, well-seasoned, with springy skin and tender meat. It has the aroma of sesame, sesame oil, and cilantro. However, the flavor is on the salty side, so it's recommended to pair it with porridge or ask for less seasoning. 7. Shiheli Ginger Duck: Located at No. 53-1 Minzu Road, Siming District, this place perfectly captures Minnan flavors. The duck meat is tender, and the ginger flavor is just right. The aromas of sesame oil, rice wine, and duck meat intertwine, leaving you feeling warm all over after eating. It's a must-eat when visiting Shapowei! 8. Lianhuan Oyster Omelet: Located at No. 33-2 Jukou Heng Lane, Jukou Street, Zhongshan Road. They use top-quality "pearl oysters" from Tong'an, which are sourced and used up on the same day. Pan-fried with sweet potato starch and egg batter, it's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, juicy and delicious. It's a representative dish of Xiamen oyster omelet. 9. Chenjia Dessert: Located near Zhongshan Road, this is a childhood memory for many long-time Xiamen residents. Their golden French toast is freshly fried and drizzled with condensed milk—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with milky flavor! The herbal jelly (guilinggao) has a subtle sweetness after the initial bitterness and pairs perfectly with honey and evaporated milk. They also offer a variety of other desserts like herbal jelly and sago soup. 10. Weiyou Duck Noodle Soup: The Heping Wharf branch is located at Unit DE, 2nd Floor, Heping Wharf Passenger Terminal, No. 3 Lujiang Road, Siming District. It is a traditional, time-honored brand in Xiamen. Their signature Weiyou duck noodle soup comes in a generous portion even for a small size. The duck is delicious, the broth has a medicinal herbal aroma, and the noodles are smooth. It's a must-try Minnan delicacy when visiting Xiamen!

Restaurant reviewer reporting for duty: 6 shops, 6 kinds of joy. Just the highlights for each 👇 🌶️ Shuxiangyuan Sichuan Cuisine | No. 11-1, Gaopu South Road, Xinglin Subdistrict, Jimei District The stir-fried pork liver and kidney from the Sichuan owner comes out sizzling. The handmade tofu pudding is made fresh daily and is so tender you have to eat it with a spoon 🌶️ 🍲 Juqi Hot Pot | No. 6-1, Quefeng Nanli, Xiangshan Subdistrict, Xiang'an District 🌿 Chengxianli Vietnamese Chicken Pho | No. 988-106, Anling Road, Huli District Refreshing Southeast Asian style. The pho broth is clear and the meat is tender, with a whole row of dipping sauces to mix and match. An oasis for office workers at lunchtime 🌱 🖤 HEISHI | 1F, Building B2, Zone B, Aviation Gudi Shi Plaza, Huli District All-black retro bar with live singers performing popular songs. Great signature cocktails and unique shisha 🥃 🦞 Xiaoyi Meatball Satay Noodles | No. 213-104, Daxue Road, Siming District 💆 Linlinqi Head Spa | Nanhu Zhongxiang Branch (No. 10, Dongming Road, Zhongxiang Building) Immersive head therapy: shampoo + meridian massage + mugwort salt + eye compress. You'll feel like a new person afterward 🌸