Best things to do in a Xiamen Trip

Xiamen, known as "Egret Island", is said to have been a habitat for egrets in ancient times, a coastal city that is simple, refined, and charming, brimming with a sense of Petty Bourgeoisie and artistic flair. With its fresh air, clean streets, and leisurely pace of life, the city feels like a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the modern world. Everywhere you look, there's a sense of warmth and beauty, as if the noise and chaos of everyday life have gently faded away. Following are the best things to do in Xiamen.

Top 1: Cycle along the Huandao Road

Blue skies, emerald seas, swaying coconut trees, and soft sandy beaches, how could one visit Xiamen without cycling along the Island Ring Road? Built along the coastline, this scenic route, also called Huandao Road stretches from Xiamen University to the International Conference and Exhibition Center, known as the "Golden Coastal Line". On what's hailed as one of the most beautiful marathon tracks in the world, gather a few friends and ride together, basking in the sea breeze, enjoying the music, and reveling in the freedom of the coast, which is a truly romantic and poetic experience.

The entire Island Ring Road, whether hugging mountains and skirting the sea, spanning bridges over the ocean, or tunneling through hills, reveals unique and captivating scenery at every turn. Along the way, it links iconic spots such as Hulishan Cannon Fort, Calligraphy Square, Music Plaza, Xiamen University, and the International Convention Center, together with the sea, beaches, and palm groves, creating a fascinating southern coastal landscape. As you cycle along this romantic coast, sometimes diving with the wind, sometimes pushing uphill with great effort, you're immersed in the sea breeze and stunning vistas, letting all of life's worries drift away in the rhythm of the waves and wind.

Xiamen is also home to an aerial bike path, China's first and the world's longest elevated bike lane, stretching 7.6 kilometers. Suspended beneath the city's BRT bridge, it's sheltered from sun and rain. While it may not offer the sweeping sea views of the Island Ring Road, cycling through the sky above the city is an exhilarating experience unlike anything found in other cities in China.

Top 2: Try the Zhonggu Cableway Once

The Zhonggu Cableway is a corridor of time suspended in the skies above Xiamen Island. Stretching over 1,000 meters, it is not only the island city's only aerial sightseeing ride in motion, but also an exceptional choice to take in the cityscape and natural beauty from above. This kilometer-long rainbow, linking Wanshi Mountain to South Putuo Temple, with a "God's-eye view" of Xiamen's mountains, sea, and city, distills the island's essence into a flowing poetic journey in a leisurely 40-minute ride.

As the orange-red cable car glides from the concrete forest toward the blue bay, you suddenly realize that this is not just a mode of transport but the aerial key to decoding the magic of Xiamen. To the east, egrets dance over Yundang Lake; to the west, the red rooftops of Gulangyu float on a jade; to the south, the Twin Towers pierce the clouds; and to the north, the cactus in Xiamen Botanic Garden arrange into a square array. In the distance, the Haicang Bridge hangs across the sky like a rainbow, with cars on it appearing no larger than ants. Board the cableway at sunset, and you'll witness the molten-gold sunset sinking into the sea, as the traffic on Yanwu Bridge and the returning boats on the water together weave a tapestry of light. As night falls, lights across the city begin to flicker on one by one, forming a glittering river of stars. Nighttime turns the city into a massive screen, playing a mesmerizing symphony of light and shadow.

Top 3: Sea the Sunset Glow at the Beach

Located at the southern foot of Xiamen University near Baicheng, Baicheng Sandy Beach stretches between Yanwu Bridge and the Hulishan Cannon Fort. It's one of the best spots in Xiamen to watch the seaside sunset, drawing both locals and tourists eager to encounter the breathtaking twilight scene.

At dusk, as the tide recedes into the distance, the grey-white sand turns a warm golden hue under the sun. Footprints of visitors and children digging in the sand become gentle footnotes to the landscape. But the real magic begins only after this.

The sky first takes on the hue of lychee soda, soft pinks and tangerines spreading through the wisps of clouds. The outline of Yanwu Bridge emerges against the backlight like a cutout in the sky. In the distance, the red rooftops of Gulangyu begin to shimmer, as if sprinkled with diamond dust. At that moment, the waves seem to slow down, as if pausing for the arrival of something sacred.

Suddenly, the entire sky burns, not in a harsh crimson blaze, but like gold leaf melting into blue-violet silk. The Twin Towers reflect thousands of flowing rays of sunset on their glass facades. On the beach, couples sway in silhouette along the tide line, roadside vendors begin folding their umbrellas, and even the bicycle bells along Huandao Road ring with a tender softness. The sea breeze, tinged with salt, carries the last trace of orange-red light into the rolling waves.

As the lights of the Twin Towers gradually come on, someone starts playing the guitar on the beach. Sitting on the boardwalk waiting for the stars to appear, you realize that night in Xiamen never rushes to fall—it simply changes its palette and continues writing poetry.

Top 4: Watch Birds at Xiamen Wetlands

Beautiful Egret Island is a haven where egrets gather in flight, birdsong fills the air, waters run clear, and lush greenery thrives. Revered by locals as the city's "green lung", it serves not only as a vital ecological barrier but also as a beloved destination for birdwatchers.

During high tide, flocks of egrets often converge around Yundang Lake. Draped in their elegant breeding plumage, they resemble celestial beings in white robes with flowing head feathers, dancing along the causeway, sometimes foraging, sometimes playfully posturing. From dawn to dusk, the scenes of migrating and roosting egrets are breathtakingly beautiful. In these moments, one truly understands why Xiamen is known as the "Egret Island".

Besides the city bird egret, Xiamen is also home to two other most beautiful birds: the swamphen, known as the most beautiful waterbird, and the blue-tailed bee-eater, hailed as the most beautiful summer migratory bird. These wild birds flap their wings in the reflections of glass skyscrapers, and glide through the reeds of wetlands.

When Yundang Lake swells with the tide, flocks of egrets hover over the water to feed. In Wuyuan Bay, blue- tailed bee-eaters carve nests into cliff faces. On the embankment along Huandao East Road, terns ride the waves in flocks. At the Horticulture Expo Garden, flocks of cormorants pass overhead like drifting dark clouds. When you let your gaze linger on a single bird, time itself seems to slow, and the shadow of life stretches gently into the horizon.

Top 5: Beachcomb at Xiamen Beaches

When speaking of Xiamen Island, the sea is never far from mind. Residents who rely on the ocean for their livelihood have learned to follow the rhythms of the tides. When the tide recedes, they seize the opportunity to forage along the exposed beaches and rocky shores for marine treasures. Clams, sea crabs, mantis shrimp… every low tide draws out a bustling "beachcombing army", with many achieving "seafood freedom" right on the shore.

Among the best places for this coastal adventure, Guanyinshan Beach stands out. It is not only a popular tourist destination but also a sacred spot for beachcombing enthusiasts. With its long coastline, soft sandy beaches, and views across the sea to Kinmen Island, the location is simply unmatched. Whether camping, watching the sunrise, or listening to the soothing sound of waves, it's a blissful experience.

Equipped with your tools, combing the beach can lead to delightful surprises. Digging up clams is just the beginning, because those seasoned "tide chasers" often fill their buckets with stone crabs, spotted conchs, octopuses, and more. Beyond the joy of experiencing a fisherman's life, whatever seafood you collect can be cooked on-site or packed up to take home, making a truly rewarding harvest.

Top 6: Soak in a Hot Spring in Winter

What could be more comforting on a warm winter day than soaking in a hot spring? Immersed in soothing waters, eyes gently closed, you feel time slow to a tranquil flow, as if all the noise and stress of the world have simply melted away.

Revered by the ancients as a "heaven-sent spring", the water of Riyuegu Hot Springs lies nestled at the foot of the picturesque Tianzhu Mountain. Entering the hot spring park is like stepping into a secluded paradise, with pristine forests, wetlands, and lawns, where the lush tropical landscapes make you feel as though you've been transported to Southeast Asia.

Wrapped in the gentle embrace of warm spring water, far from the hustle and haste of urban life, there is only the quiet joy of simplicity and freedom. The spring water, reaching a surface temperature of up to 82°C, is rich in trace minerals at concentrations with therapeutic value. It's an invitation to feel the "heart" and the "soul" of itself. There are not many pools in the hot spring park, but each one is exquisitely crafted. Nestled among lush greenery and vibrant blossoms, every open-air pool is a hidden gem, each step reveals a new scenic view, and every pool feels like a private garden.

Top 7: Collect Some Seals on Gulangyu

The seal-collecting craze swepts across Gulangyu. With a booklet in hand, travelers set out to collect seals from scenic spots or specialty shops, leaving each seal as a mark of their journey, creating a personal memory of their trip.

These seal booklets are sold in various small shops on Xiamen Island and Gulangyu. With their fresh, artsy design and simple yet vivid illustrations, they show an easy-to-follow guide to the island. Wandering through Gulangyu's quaint alleys, booklet in hand, visitors embark on a journey to uncover memories that bridge the island's past and present. The inexpensive and creative souvenirs is equivalent of a unique way to take the scenery home.

As you dart from place to place in search of seals, you soak in the charm of Gulangyu's old streets. Each seal is like a breeze from Egret Island, a whiff of the sea garden's floral scent. Flipping through your completed booklet, now filled with colorful seals, a few hidden style ones making it truly one of a kind, brings a sense of joy and satisfaction, as the moments of your journey come vividly rushing back.

Top 8: Standup Paddleboard on the Sea

Maybe you've long admired the thrill of surfing but just never mustered the courage to try. No worries! All you need is a board and a paddle, and you can roam freely across the sea, exploring Xiamen in the coolest way possible.

Standup paddleboarding (SUP) originated in the 1960s in Hawaii, USA. Only in recent years has it gained popularity in cities like Sanya and Xiamen, becoming one of the trendiest water sports. It's beginner-friendly and doesn't require complicated techniques. As long as you're not afraid of water and have a decent sense of balance, you can either sit or stand on the board with a paddle in hand and glide forward at your own pace, enjoying a blend of surfing and rowing all at once.

Besides paddleboarding, here also has wing foiling, wake surfing, kayaking, and many other water sports, both challenging and relaxing. As long as you have passion and courage, the sea of Xiamen will always be ready for your adventure.

Top 9: Collect Some Seals on Gulangyu

The full name of "Eighth Market" is the Xiamen Eighth Seafood Market. Originating during the Republic of China era, this historic market has long been a hub for traditional local snacks and is considered the best place to experience the authentic flavors of old Xiamen. Located near the sea with its main entrance facing Gulangyu Island, the Eighth Market has always been Xiamen's go-to spot for the freshest and most affordable seafood, which is not only a favorite among locals but also a must-visit for countless tourists.

As one of the "survivors" among old-generation markets, the Eighth Market holds deep nostalgic value for many Xiamen residents. The surrounding century-old buildings, weathered by time, stand tightly packed together with a distinct vintage charm. Walking through the market feels like stepping into a different era.

The air is thick with the scent of seafood mingled with the aroma of delicious food. Amid the bustle and noise, a sense of warmth and familiarity washes over you. The narrow market lanes are lined on both sides with vendor stalls, making the already tight spaces feel even more crowded. For food lovers, the Eighth Market is a true culinary paradise. From authentic local delicacies to trendy eats from across China, the market offers a diverse feast. Naturally, seafood dominates the menu, fresh, flavorful, and reasonably priced, making it the perfect place to indulge.

Top 10: Send a Future Mail to Yourself

In life, time is the one thing we can never outrun, and memories are the hardest to let go. We often believe that time is long, so long it feels like light-years. But in truth, it slips away in the blink of an eye. So why not pick up a pen and send a letter through time, a future mail to your future self?

Future mail allows you to write down your thoughts and have the letter delivered on a specific date in the future, as chosen by you. It captures your present feelings and sends them across time to a better version of yourself yet to come.

In Xiamen, you'll find plenty of artistic bookstores and post offices with this meaningful service. They carry an array of original postcards rich in local character, and you're sure to find one that speaks to you. Let your dreams flow across the canvas of time, and write to the future. This letter, filled with hope and longing, waits patiently for that beautiful moment to arrive. When you open it someday, the hope and anticipation once sealed within will become one of your most treasured memories.