Walking Through a Century of Academic Heritage - Xiamen University

As a "wild travel blogger" who frequently explores university campuses, I have a special fondness for these academic grounds. But if I had to name one university where I'd willingly get lost for an entire day, Xiamen University would definitely make the list. There are no confining walls here; instead, it's like a garden built where sea breeze meets scholarly atmosphere—even getting lost leads to delightful discoveries. Why do I recommend Xiamen University? Here are three "unconventional" reasons: 1. **The Ultimate "Campus Beats Dating" Aesthetic** Xiamen University's beauty comes with its own natural filter. The red tiles and upturned eaves of Jiageng-style architecture meeting Southern colonial-style corridors look straight out of a vintage film. Black swans by Furong Lake are more graceful than any tourist, and there's always someone lost in thought on the Shangxian Field steps—perhaps watching the sea, or waiting for sunset to paint the Jiannan Auditorium golden. 2. Immersive "Pretend to be a Scholar" Experience The yellowed manuscripts in the Lu Xun Memorial Hall, the creaking wooden floors of Qunxian Building, and even the flame tree flowers peeking through classroom windows—everything reminds you that even the air here carries the spirit of Republic-era intellectuals. Sneak into the back of a classroom for half a lecture, and you'll understand the real meaning of "facing the sea, with spring flowers blooming." 3. "Vacation at the Doorstep" Geographic Bonus From the fine sand of Baicheng Beach to the incense of South Putuo Temple, from the artistic Cat Street in Dingaozai to the old fishing port dreams of Shapowei—Xiamen University serves as a versatile hub, with academia to the left and everyday life to the right. --- My Secret Campus Route (with Hidden Surprises) **⏰ Recommended Time:** 3 PM to dusk (avoid tourist crowds, enjoy gentle lighting) **🚶 Route Guide:** 1. **South Gate Entrance Ceremony** Take a photo with the "Xiamen University" stone inscription, but don't linger too long—the real treasures await inside. 2. **Qunxian Buildings · Republican Era Time Travel** Touch the base of Chen Jiageng's bronze statue, then turn into the "most beautiful tunnel"—Furong Tunnel. Hidden in the wall of graffiti are students' romance and rebellion; beware, some artwork might unexpectedly move you to tears. 3. **Furong Lake · Swan Diplomacy** Bring some bread to bribe the black swans—their proud yet greedy demeanor resembles those seemingly aloof seniors in the laboratory. 4. **Shangxian Field · Inception** Lie in the center of the soccer field and watch how the curved roof of Jiannan Auditorium cuts through the sky—you might feel like you've fallen into a mashup of Harry Potter and The Legend of 1900. 5. **Baicheng Exit · Rush to Freedom** Pass through the "sea gate" and step onto the beach in your canvas shoes. At sunset, students often bring guitars to sing here, with waves providing the perfect accompaniment. --- **Some Hard Truths** - ❗ Reservation: Book 3 days ahead through the "Xiamen University Visitor Reservation System"—your typing speed determines your fate. - 🚴 Easter Egg: Campus shared bikes are more spontaneous than walking, but hold tight to the brakes when coasting downhill toward the beach—don't ask how I know. - 🍜 Hidden Quest: Sneak into Qinye Cafeteria for a 3-yuan "student-style" Satay noodles; the cafeteria auntie might mistake you for a late freshman. --- The best thing about Xiamen University is how it maintains its century-old dignity while embodying the free spirit of an island youth. There's no need to be a planning fanatic here—the real easter eggs are the chance encounters: a cat, a flame tree flower landing on your head, or piano notes drifting from a classroom. Remember to take your soul with you when you leave—after all, who wouldn't leave a piece of their heart in such a place?