Things to Do at Zhongshan Road

Complete Guide to Zhongshan Road in Xiamen

About Zhongshan Road

Zhongshan Road is Xiamen's most famous pedestrian street and the heart of the city's commercial district. This historic thoroughfare, named after Dr. Sun Yat-sen (Sun Zhongshan), stretches for about 1.2 kilometers and represents a perfect blend of traditional Chinese culture and colonial architecture. The street has been the commercial center of Xiamen for over a century, featuring distinctive arcade-style buildings that reflect the city's unique East-meets-West heritage. Today, Zhongshan Road serves as both a shopping paradise and a cultural showcase, lined with traditional shops, modern boutiques, local eateries, and historic buildings. The pedestrian-only zone creates a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can experience authentic Xiamen street life, sample local delicacies, and purchase everything from traditional crafts to modern fashion. The street comes alive especially in the evenings when colorful lights illuminate the historic facades and street performers entertain crowds of locals and tourists alike.

What to See & Do

Historic Arcade Buildings

Admire the unique colonial-era architecture featuring covered walkways and ornate facades that blend European and Chinese design elements

Traditional Food Stalls

Sample authentic Xiamen snacks like oyster omelets, peanut soup, and satay noodles from numerous street food vendors

Huang Zehe Peanut Soup Shop

Visit this century-old establishment famous for its traditional Xiamen-style peanut soup and other local delicacies

Zhongshan Road Museum

Learn about the street's history and Xiamen's development through exhibits showcasing the area's cultural evolution

Night Market Atmosphere

Experience the bustling evening scene with street performances, illuminated storefronts, and lively crowds of shoppers and diners

Practical Information

Opening Hours

24/7 access to the street; individual shops typically open 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM, restaurants until late night

Tickets & Pricing

Free access to the pedestrian street; individual attractions and shops have separate pricing

Best Time to Visit

Evening (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM) for the liveliest atmosphere; early morning (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM) for fewer crowds

Suggested Duration

2-4 hours for leisurely exploration, shopping, and dining

Getting There

Zhongshan Road is easily accessible by multiple transportation methods. Take Xiamen Metro Line 1 to Zhongshan Road Station (Exit A or B) for direct access. Numerous city buses stop near the street including routes 1, 2, 3, 8, 20, and 25. Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you at the pedestrian entrance near Siming District Government. If staying on nearby this destination, take the ferry to Xiamen Island Lujiang Terminal, which is just a 5-minute walk from the southern end of Zhongshan Road.

Things to Do Nearby

this destination
UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its colonial architecture, piano museum, and car-free environment, accessible by ferry
this destination
One of China's most beautiful campuses featuring traditional Chinese architecture and the scenic Furong Lake
Nanputuo Temple
Ancient Buddhist temple complex with ornate halls, peaceful gardens, and hiking trails up Wulao Peak
Hulishan Fortress
Historic coastal fortification featuring ancient cannons, military exhibits, and panoramic ocean views
Bailuzhou Park
Urban oasis with lakes, gardens, and traditional pavilions perfect for relaxation and morning exercises

Tips & Advice

Visit during weekday evenings to avoid weekend crowds while still experiencing the vibrant nighttime atmosphere
Bring cash as many traditional food stalls and smaller shops may not accept cards or mobile payments
Try the famous Xiamen specialties like sha cha mian (satay noodles) and tu sun dong (oyster omelet) from established local vendors
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be doing lots of walking on stone pavement and potentially waiting in food lines

Tours & Activities at Zhongshan Road