Xiamen

Xiamen, China

“City on the sea, sea in the city” is an apt description of picture-perfect Xiamen in southeastern China's Fujian province. No wonder the coastal city is a habitat of thousands of egrets.

Xiamen comprises a number of islands including bigger ones like Xiamen Island and Gulangyu as well as waters that measure over 30 million square meters. Sure, it's a bustling city, but it's also an oasis of calm on the sea. Stroll through the backstreets, on seafront promenades or across China's most beautiful campus. Patronize a café. Gorge yourself on the hot seafood of the street-front food stalls.

Getting around

• Gulangyu

  Its name, which in Chinese means “islet of drumbeats and waves”, does justice to the waves crashing into the sea-eroded caves, emitting drumbeat-like sounds. A Xiamen itinerary would be nothing without a tour of Gulangyu. Trek up to the top of Riguangyan (sunlight rock) for views of the sea and the skyline framed by clustered high-rises on the other side.

• Xiamen University

  Against the dazzling backdrop of rolling hills and vast sea, Xiamen University ranks among China's most beautiful campuses. Go through the Furong tunnel and you will be met with a dazzling display of flowers.

• Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street

  After coming back from Gulangyu, you can round off your day with an amble through Xiamen's oldest commercial street. Seafood sizzles in pans or in woks. Get ready to pig out.

• Zengcuo'an

  This fishing village attracts a crowd of regulars with its many cafés, restaurants and specialty shops. Fortify yourself with a seafood blowout after your feet become sore.

• Nanputuo Temple

  Following the lie of the land, the majestic massive temple has been a site of soul-searching, meditation and worship for many centuries. Chinese verses and couplets adorn poles.

  
  
  
• Huandaolu

  It would be quite an experience to cycle on the world's most beautiful marathon track, with the sounds of crashing waves and gentle breezes from the sea for company.