Xiamen is not just a beautiful coastal city; it's also a gateway to some of Fujian province's most iconic attractions. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, the areas surrounding Xiamen have something to offer. You can fly directly from Singapore Changi Airport to Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport in about four hours, with flights operated by Xiamen Air and Singapore Airlines.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the traditional Tulou of Yongding, the stunning Wuyi Mountain, and the charming Gulangyu Island – destinations that boast both cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. For first-time visitors to Xiamen, it is recommended to plan for a one-week trip to allow sufficient time to explore Xiamen city (2-3 days would be comfortable), as well as attractions outside of Xiamen (catering for one day for each).
1. Yongding (永定): Exploring the Ancient Towns and Traditional Tulou of the Hakka People
Located in the southwestern part of Fujian province, Yongding is known for its unique Hakka culture and traditional Tulou buildings. These iconic large, circular or rectangular earthen structures serve as communal homes and are a testament to the ingenuity of Hakka architecture. Yongding is typically visited as a day trip from Xiamen, about two to three hours away by car.
Discover the majestic Tulou (土楼)
The Tulou, or "earth buildings," are a UNESCO-listed architectural wonder. Many of these structures still house Hakka families today, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into their unique way of life. For your visit, don’t miss the following famous buildings.
Chengqi Lou (承启楼), often called the "King of Tulou," is a remarkable example of Hakka architecture. Over 300 years old, this massive circular building consists of four concentric rings and was designed to house and protect its residents from bandit attacks. At its peak, it housed over 600 people across its four levels. The central ancestral hall, located within the building, reflects the communal and cultural significance of the structure, showcasing the resilience of the Hakka people.
Hegui Lou (和贵楼) is a striking rectangular Tulou and the tallest of its kind in Fujian, standing at 21.5 meters with five storeys. Built in 1732 on swampy land, it earned the nickname "aircraft carrier on the marsh" due to its impressive structure. Designed for both living and defence, it contains 120 rooms, a school, two wells, and a fortified courtyard. Despite its challenging location next to a swamp with unstable grounds, Hegui Lou has withstood the test of time, reflecting the ingenuity of Hakka engineering.
Built in 1909, Huaiyuan Lou (怀远楼) is relatively young compared to the other two Tulous above and sports a well-preserved double-ring circular structure. This four-story structure features a central ancestral hall and advanced defensive designs.
Explore Yunshuiyao (云水谣) Ancient Town
Within the same area as Hegui Lou and Huaiyuan Lou, Yunshuiyao Ancient Town is a must-visit spot that offers a step back in time. Stroll through its historic streets, admire the picturesque landscape, and relax by the serene waterfront. Don’t miss the ancient banyan trees, which make for excellent photo opportunities.
The village gained fame as the filming location for the 2006 movie The Knot, leading to its renaming from Changjiao Village (长教村).
How to Get to Yongding
- Recommended: Book a private vehicle from Xiamen for a comfortable two-hour journey. This can be found on online travel platforms such as Trip.com. A full day is required to visit the attractions.
- Alternative: Take a train and then a bus; while a more budget-friendly option, navigating between attractions can be challenging.
2. Explore the beauty of Wuyi Mountain (武夷山) and its famous Dahongpao (大红袍) tea plantations
Experience the Nine-Bend Stream (九曲溪)
Flowing through the Wuyi Mountains, Nine-Bend Stream is a 9.5-kilometre river with dramatic gorges and lush scenery. A traditional bamboo raft ride is the best way to experience it, as visitors gently float past towering cliffs, ancient rock carvings, and tea plantations. The journey is rather long and takes about two hours. The tranquil ride offers a peaceful yet immersive way to appreciate Wuyishan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Ascend to the Tianyou Peak (天游峰)
Rising 410 metres above the Wuyi Mountains, Tianyou Peak, or "Heavenly Tour Peak," is one of the region’s most scenic spots. The climb involves around 800 stone steps, leading to breathtaking panoramic views of the Nine-Bend Stream and surrounding peaks.
Visit the Dahongpao Scenic Area
Wuyi Mountain is synonymous with Dahongpao tea, one of China’s most prized teas. The Dahongpao Scenic Area is home to ancient tea trees over a thousand years old. Walking through the lush tea gardens and exploring the rocky ledges and pavilions offers a peaceful retreat, while providing insight into the region’s deep-rooted tea culture.
Bonus Experience: Watch "Impressions Dahongpao" (大红袍印象)
Directed by renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou, Impression Dahongpao is a must-see outdoor night show, taking place daily at 7.30pm. Featuring a massive rotating stage that accommodates 2,000 spectators, this breathtaking performance brings Wuyi Mountain's history and tea culture to life. The unique rotating stage design allows the audience to experience different perspectives of the show without changing seats, enhancing the immersive experience.
How to Get to Wuyi Mountain
- High-Speed Train: A direct train from Xiamen to Wuyi Mountain makes for a smooth and convenient journey. The trip takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Getting Around: Free shuttle buses operate within the Wuyi Mountain attraction area, and Didi taxis are available in town.
3. Short on Time? Visit Gulangyu Island (鼓浪屿)
For those with limited time, Gulangyu Island offers a quick yet charming escape just off the coast of Xiamen. This pedestrian-only island is known for its beautiful scenery, colonial architecture, and laid-back atmosphere. Do note that cars are not permitted on the island, so do wear comfortable walking shoes when visiting!
As the highest point on Gulangyu Island, Sunlight Rock (日光岩) offers unparalleled views of the island's lush greenery, historic architecture, and the bustling Xiamen skyline across the water. Visitors can go on a scenic hike to the summit, where they are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views.
This towering Zheng Chenggong (郑成功) Statue is a granite monument which stands as a tribute to Zheng Chenggong, a national hero celebrated for his efforts in reclaiming Taiwan from Dutch colonial rule in the 17th century. Perched majestically on the island's coastline, the statue offers visitors a glimpse into China's storied past. Visitors can climb up the granite structure and get to the foot of the statue for panoramic views of the surrounding seascape.
A testament to Gulangyu's cosmopolitan heritage, the Former HSBC Office Building (also known as the HSBC house) showcases early 20th-century Western architectural design. To view its old interior furnishings, you will need to scan a WeChat code at the door to register, but slots are limited. This historic building reflects the island's past as an international settlement and stands as a symbol of the cultural and economic exchanges that once flourished here.
No visit is complete without trying the local delicacies! Sample oyster omelette, peanut mochi, and the famous milk tea from the island’s many street vendors.
The famous Zhang Sanfeng (张三丰) Milk Tea ought to be a must-try for all travellers and visitors. Known for its smooth, creamy texture and rich black tea flavour, this beloved drink has become an island staple for all visitors. Served either hot or cold, the milk tea strikes a perfect balance between aromatic tea and velvety milk, with a natural sweetness that isn’t overpowering.
A classic street snack on the island, the Gulangyu Mochi is a soft, chewy treat made from freshly pounded glutinous rice and coated in fragrant peanut powder. Unlike its Japanese counterpart, this Fujian-style mochi is typically hand-stretched and served warm, offering a delicate texture that melts in your mouth. It’s larger, chewier and much more flavourful than the version found in Singapore.
Street vendors prepare it fresh, skilfully rolling the mochi into bite-sized portions before generously coating them in crushed peanuts for a nutty crunch.
How to Get to Gulangyu Island
- Ferry from Xiamen: Ferries run frequently throughout the day and take about 20 minutes. The ferry terminal is located near the Xiamen Port and is quite accessible from the city centre. You can reach it by taxi, or public transport, depending on where you're staying in Xiamen.
- Travel Tip: Arrive early and stand at the front of the queue for the best seats on the ferry.
Exploring the iconic attractions outside of Xiamen city offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. From the traditional Tulou of Yong Ding to the scenic Wuyi Mountain and the charming Gulangyu Island, these destinations provide a unique and enriching travel experience. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the hidden gems of Fujian province!
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