Xiamen Gulangyu Travel Guide

Below is a travel guide for Xiamen's Gulangyu Island, covering transportation, must-see attractions, food recommendations, and important notes to help you plan your trip with ease! I. Transportation Guide 1. How to Get to the Island Ferry: Gulangyu is a car-free island, accessible only by boat. Tourist Routes: Daytime: Xiamen Cruise Center Xiagu Wharf > Gulangyu Sanqiutian Wharf/Neicuo'ao Wharf (7:10am–5:30pm). Night: Xiamen Ferry Terminal (near Zhongshan Road) > Sanqiutian Wharf (6:00pm–11:45pm). Tickets: Book in advance via the "Xiamen Ferry+" WeChat official account or the official website (waitlisting may be necessary during peak season). Tickets start from CNY 35 (round trip). Note: Locals and tourists use different ferry terminals. Don't go to the wrong one! 2. Transportation on the Island Walk everywhere. There are no motor vehicles or bicycles. Comfortable shoes are recommended. II. Must-See Attractions 1. Classic Check-in Spots Sunlight Rock: The highest point on the island, offering panoramic views of Gulangyu and Xiamen (CNY 50 entrance fee; early morning or evening visits recommended to avoid crowds). Shuzhuang Garden: A beautiful garden blending coastal and traditional garden styles, featuring the Piano Museum (CNY 30 entrance fee). Haoyue Garden: Home to a giant statue of Zheng Chenggong, with a seaside boardwalk perfect for photos (CNY 10 entrance fee). Gulangyu Organ Museum (Bagua Building): The world's largest organ museum, housed in a unique building (CNY 15 entrance fee). 2. Popular Photo Spots The Most Beautiful Corner (intersection of Sanming Road and Guxin Road): Featured in the movie "First Time"; expect lines. Qingtian Wall (Jay Chou Lyrics Wall): Near the Most Beautiful Corner; a must-see for fans. Ship House: A century-old villa with an artistic vibe. 3. Culture and Architecture Haicheng Park: A complex of old villas blending Chinese and Western styles, where you can enjoy Nanyin performances (CNY 88 entrance fee). Catholic Church: A Gothic-style church, popular for wedding photos. Bishan Tunnel: An artfully decorated tunnel with graffiti walls. III. Food Recommendations 1. Local Specialties Shacha Noodles: Try the street vendors near Longtou Road. Oyster Omelet: A perfect combination of fresh oysters and eggs. Earthworm Jelly (Tusundong): A unique Minnan delicacy. Peanut Soup: Huang Zehe Peanut Soup (sweet but not greasy). 2. Popular Gulangyu Treats Ye's Machi: A mobile vendor selling soft and sweet glutinous rice cakes. Lin Ji Fish Balls: A time-honored shop serving delicious and chewy shark meatball soup. Zhang Sanfeng Milk Tea: A trendy milk tea shop (perfect for photos). Gulangyu Pie: A top souvenir choice; coconut and mung bean flavors are recommended. IV. Important Notes 1. Book Tickets in Advance: Ferry tickets and tickets for popular attractions (like Sunlight Rock) should be booked in advance. 2. Avoid Peak Times: The island is extremely crowded during holidays. Try to visit on a working day. 3. Mosquito Repellent and Sun Protection: The island has lush vegetation and many mosquitoes in the summer. Bring mosquito repellent and a sun hat. 4. Pack Light: The stone-paved roads make it difficult to drag luggage. Choose accommodation near the wharf. 5. Respect Local Culture: Some old buildings are private residences. Do not enter without permission. V. Suggested Itineraries One-Day Trip: Sanqiutian Wharf > The Most Beautiful Corner > Organ Museum > Sunlight Rock > Shuzhuang Garden > Longtou Road snacks > Haoyue Garden > Return. Two-Day Trip: Day 1: Check in at popular spots, visit museums, and enjoy the sunset by the sea. Day 2: Explore old villas and alleys, and experience the slow-paced island life. VI. Nearby Attractions Xiamen Island: Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street, Nanputuo Temple, Xiamen University, Zengcuoan, and cycling along the Huandao Road. Other Islands: Wuyuanwan Wetland Park and Shapowei Art Zone. Gulangyu is a small island perfect for a leisurely trip. Stroll among the century-old buildings, and experience the blend of history and art. Remember to bring your camera and a relaxed mood! 📸🌊