Things to Do in Xiamen

About Xiamen

Xiamen emerges from the Taiwan Strait like a pearl balanced between tradition and modernity, where colonial-era architecture whispers stories beneath swaying palm trees. This coastal gem in Fujian Province enchants visitors with its unique blend of Southern Chinese culture and maritime heritage. The city's crown jewel, car-free Gulangyu Island, floats just offshore like a living museum, its winding lanes echoing with piano melodies that drift from century-old mansions. Here, the gentle lapping of waves mingles with the aromatic steam rising from street-side tea houses, while ancient temples stand sentinel over bustling night markets. Xiamen's subtropical soul reveals itself in leisurely strolls along tree-lined beaches, in the warm hospitality of locals who speak in melodic Hokkien dialect, and in the golden light that bathes the city's granite coastline at sunset. This is a place where time moves at the rhythm of the tides, inviting travelers to slow down and savor the harmonious dance between East and West, past and present.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Download DiDi app for convenient taxi service. Take Ferry No. 3 to Gulangyu Island (¥35 round-trip for tourists). Use Xiamen BRT system for efficient city travel - purchase a transportation card at any station for easy transfers.

Money: Bring cash as many local vendors don't accept cards. WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used - link to your international card beforehand. ATMs are abundant in city center but scarce on Gulangyu Island.

Cultural Respect: Remove shoes when entering temples and homes. Avoid pointing with single finger - use open hand instead. Don't touch people's heads or shoulders. Speak softly in temples and museums, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Food Safety: Try local specialties at busy street stalls with high turnover. Avoid raw shellfish in summer months. Drink bottled water or boiled tea. Popular safe bets include oyster omelets, peanut soup, and fish balls from established vendors.

When to Visit

Xiamen enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons offering different experiences.Spring (March-May)brings pleasant temperatures of 18-26°C with moderate rainfall (80-150mm monthly), making it ideal for sightseeing. Cherry blossoms bloom in March, while accommodation prices remain 20-30% below peak rates.Summer (June-August)is hot and humid (24-32°C) with heavy rainfall (150-250mm), particularly during typhoon season (July-September). Despite the heat, this is peak season with prices 40-50% higher due to school holidays.Autumn (September-November)offers the best weather - clear skies, comfortable temperatures (20-28°C), and minimal rainfall (40-80mm). This is premium season for photography and outdoor activities, with prices 30-40% above average.Winter (December-February)is mild (10-18°C) and dry, perfect for budget travelers seeking 30-40% lower accommodation rates. Key festivals include Chinese New Year (January/February), Mid-Autumn Festival (September/October), and Xiamen International Marathon (January).Best for first-time visitors: October-November for perfect weather and autumn colors.Budget travelers: December-February for lowest prices.Families: April-May or September-October to avoid extreme heat and crowds.