Xiamen’s little island district, where time stands still, is a delightful contrast to the modern city
Arguably China’s most beloved coastal destination, Xiamen is perhaps best known to the outside world as a booming commercial harbour and economic zone. It’s also dubbed the “Gate of China”, thanks to the port city’s geographic positioning in southeastern Fujian province.
As a place where East and West have converged for centuries, Xiamen bears a unique cultural heritage that’s attracted travellers and traders for a long time.
Just a few minutes’ ferry ride from downtown’s Xiamen International Cruise Terminal, Gulang Island (Gulangyu) sits frozen in time, a charming contrast to the modern metropolis across the sea.
This small pedestrian-only island was once home to settlements of European traders in the 1900s and now enjoys its status as a Unesco World Cultural Heritage Site.
Today, visitors flock to walk through its winding little lanes for a glimpse of that bygone era, enhanced by the island’s vehicle-free streets and well preserved colonial architecture.
1. Tangtao Yard Hostel (Xiamen Gulangyu Fuxing Castle)
Much of the island’s charm comes in the form of its well-preserved historic architecture and colonial-era villas, many of which have been transformed into Chinese-style guesthouses like the charming Tangtao Yard Hostel. Here, “hostel” is a misnomer: this rustic-chic boutique hotel greets guests with exposed brick arches, reclaimed wood and subtropical charm, with outdoor courtyards and gathering areas lush with greenery. It’s a tranquil hideaway from the island’s tourist crowds, while still being an easy walk to all the attractions. 13 Fuxing Rd
2. Longtou Road Commercial Street
All destinations in China have their shopping streets, and Gulang Island is no different. Though undeniably touristy, Longtou Road is a must-visit, and just a 10-minute walk from the ferry dock. A stroll along the 1km stretch allows you to sample a variety of local snacks, browse cute shops and pick up all kinds of souvenirs – it’s also a great place for an evening drink as the area really comes alive at night. Longtou Rd
3. Haoyue Park
Situated on the western side of the island, Haoyue Park offers serene views and a salt-laced breeze from a series of pathways and bridges built along the sea, leading to a towering statue of celebrated 17th-century Chinese military hero Zheng Chenggong. The park is also a great backdrop for holiday photos. 3 Zhangzhou Rd
4. Shuzhuang Garden
Gulang Island is home to some stunning natural scenery and equally spectacular landscaping; no surprise it’s also nicknamed ”Garden by the Sea.” Shuzhuang Garden, originally built in 1913 as part of a private residence, is a traditional Chinese garden that incorporates the natural landscape into its design, with a series of paths, pavilions, ponds and classic architecture offering views of mountain and sea from unique perspectives. The area also houses the renowned Gulangyu Piano Museum, which boasts an extensive collection of vintage pianos from across the world – leading to another nickname, “Piano Island”. Tianwei Rd
5. Sunlight Rock
One of the island’s most popular attractions, Sunlight Rock encompasses a large rock formation and the namesake Ming Dynasty-era Buddhist temple, located on the southern tip of the island and its highest point. It’s a spectacular spot for sweeping views of the island, downtown Xiamen and the surrounding seascape – and at only 40m, an easy hike to the peak. 62 Huangyan Rd
6. Kang Family Oyster Omelette
This no-frills family-owned stand does one thing and one thing only: a regional speciality of wok-fried eggs with oysters, which gets its signature crispy outside, chewy-inside texture from the addition of potato starch. 4 Longtou Rd
7. Lin’s Shacha Noodles
Hit up this mom-and-pop shop for a bowl of shacha mian, arguably Xiamen’s most iconic dish. This delightfully rich, savoury soup noodle is a brilliant fusion of Southeast Asian and Chinese flavours, with thin noodles swimming in aromatic satay-sauce-based broth and topped with a combo of meat, seafood, tofu and veggies. 322 Neicuoao Rd
8. Zhangsanfeng Milk Tea
Named after a beloved island cat, this popular milk tea shop offers premium quality teas with your choice of milk, flavours and add-ons: try local favourites like island coconut, oolong bubble milk tea, matcha smoothie or a seasonal fruit tea. 131 Longtou Rd
