How to Plan a 2-Day Xiamen Tour
Day 1: Culture, History & Natural Wonders
Morning:
Start your Xiamen adventure at Jimei School Village (集美学村). Nestled on the Jimei Peninsula, this cultural hub showcases the legacy of philanthropist Mr. Tan Kah Kee (Chen Jiageng). Stroll through picturesque campuses steeped in history.
Admire the Dragon Boat Pond (龙舟池) – shimmering by day and reflecting city lights by night for a serene atmosphere.
Explore free attractions including Aoyuan Garden (鳌园), Tan Kah Kee’s Former Residence (陈嘉庚故居), the Tan Kah Kee Museum (陈嘉庚纪念馆), and Guilai Tang (归来堂), immersing yourself in the past.
Lunch:
Head to the artsy Shapowei (沙坡尾) district, a haven for authentic Xiamen street food. Savour iconic dishes:
XIAMEN SATAY NOODLES (厦门沙茶面): Rich, peanutty broth.
OYSTER OMELET (蚵仔煎): Crispy, savory delight.
SEAFOOD PANCAKE (海蛎煎): Local specialty bursting with flavor.
Soak up the bohemian vibe. Visit on a Saturday for the lively Creative Market featuring local designers.
Afternoon:
Discover the Xiamen Botanical Garden (厦门园林植物园), Fujian’s first botanical garden. Key highlights:
Cactus & Succulent Zone: Unique desert landscapes.
Tropical Rainforest Zone: Timed mist sprays create ethereal, photo-perfect scenes (popular for weddings!).
Afterwards, ride the adjacent Zhonggu Cable Car (钟鼓索道). Glide 1000+ meters over lush forests and dramatic rock formations for breathtaking panoramic views of Xiamen.
Evening:
Experience Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street (中山路步行街), Xiamen’s oldest commercial hub radiating Southern Fujian and南洋 (Nanyang) charm.
Sample more Minnan (Southern Fujian) delicacies and shop for souvenirs.
Enjoy the vibrant nightlife as the street lights up after dark.
Day 2: Gulangyu Island Immersion & Coastal Views
Morning:
Take an early 20-minute ferry to Gulangyu Island (鼓浪屿), a UNESCO World Heritage Site (2017).
Must-see attractions:
Sunlight Rock (日光岩): Summit for iconic island & sea vistas.
Shuzhuang Garden (菽庄花园): Poetic seaside classical garden.
Organ Museum (风琴博物馆): Housed in八卦楼 (Bagualou), showcasing fascinating musical history.
Savor Gulangyu’s famous snacks: traditional pastries near the Organ Museum and fresh seafood on Longtou Road (龙头路).
Lunch:
Choose a unique restaurant on Gulangyu to refuel with more local flavors.
Afternoon:
Continue exploring Gulangyu’s charming lanes, colonial architecture, beaches, or museums at your leisure. Absorb the car-free island ambiance.
Departure (Late Afternoon/Evening):
Return by ferry to the main island. Collect luggage from your hotel.
Proceed to Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN) or Xiamen Railway Station for departure.
Optional Extension: If time allows, visit the artistic Zeng Cuo An Village (曾厝垵) or relax at Baicheng Beach (白城沙滩) before leaving.
Essential Travel Tips:
Transportation: Utilize Xiamen’s efficient metro, buses, BRT (Rapid Transit Bus), or taxis/ride-hailing (Didi). Public transport covers most major attractions.
Accommodation: Stay on Xiamen Island (convenient for Day 1 & transport) or near the ferry terminals to Gulangyu. Options range from budget hostels to luxury hotels and boutique guesthouses. Consider an overnight stay on Gulangyu for a deeper experience (adjust itinerary accordingly).
