Top 50 Best Things to Do in Xiamen

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南方有佳木1102

Because I couldn't book ferry tickets to Gulangyu Island online for the next day, I chose this travel agency. The service was quite good. They contacted me via WeChat to tell me the meeting time and place. After arriving, it took about 40 to 50 minutes by car, and then we waited for about an hour at the pier before finally arriving on Gulangyu Island. Gulangyu Island is quite beautiful and worth seeing. We were also lucky enough to catch the organ performance every Friday afternoon at 4:30!

M50***57

Memories of Xiamen Botanical Garden On December 19th, I visited the Xiamen Botanical Garden and made a special trip to the National Bougainvillea Germplasm Resource Bank. I was surprised to learn that bougainvillea, botanically known as a climbing shrub in the Nyctaginaceae family, is native to South America. It is vigorous, thrives in warm climates, and typically blooms in November. Due to its vibrant colors and long flowering period, it has been widely introduced and cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, and is now the city flower of more than 30 cities in my country, including Xiamen. The Bougainvillea Germplasm Resource Bank is a "gene bank" of bougainvillea genetic resources, currently housing nearly 500 varieties, accounting for almost half of the world's varieties and ranking first in China. It consists of a bougainvillea germplasm resource conservation base and a bougainvillea exhibition garden. The exhibition garden fully utilizes the natural landscape of the botanical garden, including mountains, rocks, and water, with "flowers and rocks" as its design theme. It highlights both the vibrant beauty of bougainvillea and the unique characteristics of Wanshi Mountain. Following the natural contours of the mountain, the bougainvillea are arranged at varying heights, dividing the area into several zones, including a flower sea area, a bonsai area, a variety area, and a leisure area. Stepping into the flower sea area is like entering a dreamlike wonderland. Hundreds of bougainvillea varieties bloom in competition, their colors ranging from fiery reds and brilliant oranges to dazzling yellows and pure whites. They cascade down the terraced terrain in tiers like waterfalls, creating a magnificent sea of ​​bougainvillea flowers. The walkways meander through this floral paradise; strolling along them, the layers of blossoms resemble colorful waves, swaying gently in the breeze. The invigorating fragrance carried on the breeze is refreshing and unforgettable. Entering the variety area is like stepping into a natural kingdom of bougainvillea. Here, the bougainvillea grows intermittently alongside the rocks, blending perfectly with the surrounding natural environment. Strolling along the winding paths, one encounters numerous "bougainvillea beauties"—varieties like Snow White, Mona Lisa, Hong Kong Beauty, Orange Ice, and River Lotus, each with its own unique charm: some stand gracefully on either side of the path; others nestle against the rocks, all alluring. Among them, the "Red-Bud Beauty" series is the most abundant, with varieties like Yi Hong, Pink Little Elf, Double-Petaled Jujube Red, Golden Deer Crimson, and Deep Red Wrinkled Leaves, each possessing its own distinct character. The "green foliage" adorning these "beauties" is also unique, with varying shades of green, sizes, and even patterns—silver-edged, gold-edged, variegated, and wrinkled leaves creating a delightful contrast. Immersed in the garden, appreciating the rich variety of bougainvillea varieties, and fully enjoying nature's bounty, one's heart is filled with comfort and happiness. Stepping into the leisure area, one enters a tranquil resting place amidst the sea of ​​flowers. Here, you'll find a meticulously crafted "Love Corridor," with vibrant red hearts strung together to form archways, and animal shapes woven from bougainvillea, their graceful forms creating a romantic atmosphere. Lawns, flagstone paths, and rest pavilions are scattered throughout, complementing each other beautifully. Strolling along, you can stop to take photos, enjoy panoramic views of the magnificent terraced flower fields, and gaze at the stunning scenery of Wanshi Mountain and the bougainvillea's graceful, climbing blossoms. Against the backdrop of blue skies, white clouds, colorful flowers, and green grass, you can truly appreciate the harmonious beauty of humanity and nature. In short, the bougainvillea flower sea is one of the most visually stunning biological landscapes I've ever seen on my travels.

M32***85

Sunset time is hard to get, but other times are still possible. We went early in the morning. The cable car was built quite early and has a weight limit of 340 catties. Luckily, the guy behind me and I were both overweight, so we each got a private cabin and 40 minutes of alone time.

Anonymous user

The exhibits are rather limited, but the performances are a highlight! The fort itself isn't large, but it's steeped in history, offering good views of the ancient cannons and the coastline. However, the most outstanding feature is the live-action "Krupp Cannon" performance, which simulates loading and firing—a truly awe-inspiring experience that instantly brings history closer, making the visit lively and engaging. Visiting during the performance time will greatly enhance the experience.

_We***79

My child was so excited about the whale specimen, and was immediately overwhelmed by its sheer size. He cried... a true example of "Lord Ye's love of dragons" (a Chinese idiom meaning someone who professes to love something but is actually afraid of it)... hahaha. The guide was incredibly gentle and patient, and I thoroughly enjoyed the explanations! A million thumbs up!

M2f***xp

Today the weather was sunny and clear, perfect for taking a sea cruise from Xiamen to Kinmen and enjoy the beautiful scenery on both sides of the strait. The cruise crew patiently answered all my questions. I'll definitely bring my family here again next time.

张家老飞侠

Stepping into Nanputuo Temple, the aroma of incense mingles with the fragrance of ancient wood. Red walls and gray tiles reflect the blue sky, wind chimes tinkle softly on the eaves, and solemn Buddha statues stand within, where devout worshippers kneel in prayer. Walking around to the back of the temple, stone steps lead to Wulao Peak, lush with greenery along the way, where you might occasionally see monks strolling by. After descending the mountain, don't forget to try the vegetarian pastries outside the temple; the mung bean filling is sweet and refreshing. Here, there is no hustle and bustle, only a tranquil peace that calms the mind; even the wind carries a touch of Zen.

_TI***2d

Loved it. Lots to do, you could spend all day there. Also make sure you hire a buggy. This place is huge.

Elanie0702

Xiamen Petronas Twin Towers is absolutely amazing! These two high-rise buildings are like two big knives directly inserted into the clouds, standing underneath and looking up, their necks are almost broken, domineering! The light is on at night, it is like a science fiction film, and the colorful light show is blinding. It is a blockbuster in the circle of friends. The location is also good, the bottom of the foot is Shapowei, next to the Dingao Zai Cat Street, it is super convenient to go shopping and drink. There are everything in the building, five-star hotels, high-end restaurants, net red cafes, even the cinema is a lounge chair, watching the movie while watching the sea view, this treatment is absolutely perfect! The observation deck is more exciting, and the whole Xiamen has a panoramic view. Gulangyu Island and Yanwu Bridge are at the foot. Friends who are afraid of heights remember to support the wall. The most amazing thing is that it has become a landmark in Xiamen. Tourists must punch in when they come, and locals can't help but squint when they pass by. On a sunny day, the glass curtain wall reflects like crystal, and the cloud and mist wrapped around the waist like Xia Xia drama, 365 days of appearance online.

张家老飞侠

Jimei University Village, a "garden university by the sea" created by Mr. Tan Kah Kee, boasts red-tiled roofs and green trees reflected in the azure sea, with its Nanyang-style arcade buildings and traditional Minnan houses creating a picturesque scene. Stroll along the Dragon Boat Pond and admire the reflection of Tan Kah Kee's architecture in the water; explore the Ao Garden to appreciate the stone carvings and learn about the stories of overseas Chinese over the past century; enjoy a bowl of satay noodles on Shigu Road in the evening, feeling the sea breeze – it's incredibly pleasant. No need to rush; take your time to wander through the streets and alleys, immersing yourself in the academic atmosphere while experiencing the everyday life of Minnan – a half-day can be incredibly rewarding.