Xiamen in 2 Days: Coastal Magic, Colonial Charm & Sea-View Metro

Xiamen, which ranked 8th among Chinese cities in attracting international tourists in 2025, has long been a favorite gateway for travelers seeking coastal scenery, clean air, and historical heritage. Facing the Taiwan Strait, this garden city blends Southern Min (Minnan) culture with international influences dating back to its treaty port days. Here is a curated 2-day itinerary to experience the best of Xiamen.

Day 1: Heritage, Temples & Sunset Dining

Morning: Nanputuo Temple & Wulao Mountain

Begin your day at Nanputuo Temple, a tranquil Buddhist complex located at the foot of Wulao Mountain. Founded during the Tang Dynasty, it is one of southern China's most revered temples. Wander through the halls to admire the intricate swallowtail roofs, lotus ponds, and fine statues. Afterward, hike up the Wulao Mountain path behind the temple. The climb takes about 40 minutes and rewards you with stunning panoramic views of Xiamen harbor and the sprawling campus of Xiamen University.

Getting There: Take Metro Line 3 to Xiamen University South Gate station.

Midday: Xiamen University Campus

Adjacent to the temple is Xiamen University, widely considered China's most beautiful campus. Stroll along the tree-lined avenues to admire the Jiageng-style buildings, which combine traditional Chinese tile roofs with Western stone facades. Relax by the scenic Furong Lake, and explore the Furong Tunnel — a 1.4-kilometer tunnel covered in creative, colorful graffiti hand-painted by generations of students. Note: Tourist entry requires advance registration on weekends and holidays.

Afternoon: Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street

Head to Zhongshan Road, Xiamen's historic commercial strip. The street is famous for its early 20th-century colonial-era arcade buildings (Qilou), built by returned overseas Chinese. It is a fantastic place for shopping and sampling Minnan street snacks. Be sure to try Shacha Mian (Satay noodles) — fresh wheat noodles in a rich, spicy peanut broth topped with seafood and tofu — and local peanut soup.

Evening: Sunset Dinner at Lujiang Hotel

For dinner, reserve a terrace table at the Lujiang Harbourview Restaurant on the top floor of the historic Lujiang Hotel. This landmark hotel has hosted generations of travelers. Here you can savor authentic Minnan dim sum (like crispy shrimp patties and taro pastries) and fresh local seafood while enjoying the sunset over the harbor, with the illuminated skyline of Gulangyu Island directly across the channel.

Day 2: Island Charm & The 'Spirited Away' Metro

Morning & Midday: Gulangyu Island (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Take an early morning ferry to Gulangyu Island (international visitors must use the ferry from Xiagu Terminal to Sanqiutian Terminal). Gulangyu is a vehicle-free islet famous for its colonial-era architecture, winding alleys, sandy beaches, and musical heritage (it is often called the 'Island of Music' for its high density of pianos).

Spend your morning exploring the car-free streets. Highlights include:

• Shuzhuang Garden: A beautiful seaside Chinese garden featuring a world-class Piano Museum.
• Sunlight Rock: The highest point on the island, offering a spectacular 360-degree view of Gulangyu and downtown Xiamen.
• Colonial Architecture: Walk past the historic consulates of the UK, Japan, and other nations, alongside red-brick Minnan villas.

Afternoon: The 'Spirited Away' Sea-View Metro

Return to the main island and take Metro Line 1. The section of Line 1 between Gaoqi Station and Jimei School Village runs directly on a bridge above the sea. This coastal transit segment offers passengers breathtaking views of the ocean, earning it the nickname the 'Spirited Away sea train' among international travelers. Ride the train round-trip during golden hour for the most photogenic experience.

Evening: Seafood Feasting in Zengcuo'an

Conclude your Xiamen getaway in Zengcu'an, a former fishing village turned lively night market. The narrow alleys are lined with colorful shops, boutique guesthouses, and hundreds of street food stalls. Choose a local eatery to feast on fresh garlic oysters, grilled squid, and mango shaved ice.

Practical Tips for Xiamen

• Ferry Booking: Tickets for the Gulangyu tourist ferry sell out quickly. Book online in advance via the 'Xiamen Ferry' WeChat mini-program (requires passport registration).
• Payment & Metro: Xiamen's metro is clean, rapid, and accepts Alipay/WeChat Pay QR codes at all gantries.
• 144-Hour Transit: Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport is eligible for China's 144-hour visa-free transit program, making it an ideal stopover destination.