Resting along the southern coastline of Fujian Province across the Taiwan Strait, Xiamen is one of China's cleanest and most relaxed island cities. Famed for its subtropical ocean breezes, colonial architectural enclaves, and rich Minnan cultural traditions, it is an ideal destination for coastal leisure.
A short ten-minute ferry crossing connects the main city to Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage pedestrian-only haven known as "Piano Island." Meander car-free winding brick paths past 19th-century European consulates, neoclassical merchant villas, and lush banyan trees, ascending Sunlight Rock for sweeping 360-degree views across the coastline.
Back on the main island, rent a bicycle to pedal along the scenic seaside Huandao Road, explore the incense-filled courtyards of the historic South Putuo Temple, and stroll the leafy campus of Xiamen University. Savor local Minnan street food including savory oyster omelets (haizhijian), satay noodle soup (shacha mian), and frozen jelly shoots (tudong'an).
