Xiamen Lujiang Night Tour Travel Guide: Encounter the Brilliant Coastal Night Scene

When night falls and the city lights come on, Xiamen, this beautiful coastal city, sheds the daytime hustle and bustle and dons a dazzling night outfit, revealing a unique charm and style. Under the cover of night, the ancient streets, modern skyscrapers, and shimmering sea surface complement each other, forming dreamlike and enchanting scenes. At this moment, embarking on a night tour in Xiamen feels like stepping into a whole new world, with every step full of surprises and discoveries. Next, let us unveil the mystery of Xiamen’s night tour and appreciate the city’s unique nighttime charm. 1. Past and Present: Historical Echoes in Xiamen’s Nightscape Xiamen has a long history, and its nighttime also carries the memories and changes of the city. In ancient times, as an important port, the docks of Xiamen were brightly lit at night, with merchant ships coming and going, creating a busy scene. Although Xiamen then lacked modern skyscrapers and dazzling lights, the lively and prosperous harbor witnessed its important role in maritime trade. With the development of the times, Xiamen gradually became a modern city. Today, while preserving its historical and cultural heritage, it continuously innovates and develops, making the night scenery more colorful. The old arcade buildings, illuminated by lights, display a unique Nanyang style; modern skyscrapers sparkle with neon lights, showcasing the city’s vitality and prosperity; the coastal night view is especially charming, with sea breezes brushing the face, the shimmering sea surface blending with the lights along the shore, intoxicating visitors. From the ancient harbor to the modern coastal city, Xiamen’s nights witness the city’s transformation and growth, with every night scene telling a unique story. 2. Specific Details for Touring 1) Lujiang Night Tour: The Lujiang Night Tour is a key tourism project in Xiamen, operated by the Poseidon "Chenggong" ancient-style cruise line. Boarding the "Chenggong" cruise from Heping Pier, you can enjoy the night views of Gulangyu Island, the Zheng Chenggong statue, the Yanwu Bridge resembling a silver dragon going to sea, the Lujiang Riverside Nightscape Project, the International Cruise Center, the distinctive Huoshaoyu Islet, the Haicang Bridge that looks like a blue dragon dancing in the Milky Way, the brightly lit Dongdu Container Terminal, and other beautiful sights. On the cruise, you can also listen to violin performances at the bow, taste sparkling tea drinks, enjoy performances by onboard singers, watch kung fu tea ceremonies, and see shows at the Chenggong Mini Theater, fully experiencing the charm of Xiamen’s night. - Schedule: Usually five trips from 18:15 to 20:20, but times may vary by season; it is recommended to check before traveling. - Ticket Price: 99 RMB per person. - Boarding Location: Heping Pier, Hall 2. - Notes: Remember to bring your ID card; you can board directly by scanning your ID without exchanging tickets; arriving early allows you to secure a second-floor scenic seat with better views; the first floor is an enclosed cabin with slightly poorer air but features puppet shows, suitable for those sensitive to wind; the third-floor tea room requires an extra fee (200 RMB per table of 4, including tea and snacks); it is best to use public transport or subway. Bus routes 3, 12, 25, 29, 71, 107, 116, 853, and the special island sightseeing bus stop at "Heping Pier." Subway Line 1 exits at Zhenhailu Station Exit 1, then walk to the pier. 2) Gulangyu Night Tour: At night, Gulangyu Island sheds its daytime hustle and becomes especially quiet and romantic. Strolling by the sea, listening to the waves, and feeling the gentle sea breeze relax the mind. The Longtou Road Night Market remains lively, where you can taste special foods like grass jelly and buy various local souvenirs. Tips: The paths are dimly lit, so bring a small flashlight; the temperature by the sea drops significantly at night, so bring a light jacket to avoid catching a cold; Gulangyu night ferry tickets must be booked separately and are not valid for daytime trips. 3) Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street: Xiamen’s largest commercial street, which becomes a sea of colorful lights at night. Rows of arcade buildings show unique Nanyang style under the lights, with pillars decorated with floral and leaf carvings and intricate window patterns, reflecting the refined lifestyle of the past. The street is full of shops and bustling with people. The Pizza Hut on the 24th floor of the Zhongshan Road Seaside Building and the restaurant on the 6th floor of the Lujiang Hotel are excellent spots to view the night scene of Gulangyu Island. Additionally, many delicious foods await visitors, such as Yuehua Satay Noodles (No. 78 Zhenbang Road, rich broth and abundant toppings), Yousheng Flavor Snacks (Kaiyuan Road, an old brand famous for pig’s trotters noodles and satay noodles), and Haoxiang Tenderloin (No. 1 Dazhong Road, tender meat skewers often with queues). 4) Bailuzhou Park: Centered around the Music Fountain Square, with the Egret Goddess Statue and Pigeon Square as focal points. At night, the scenery is especially enchanting, with a stunning light show on the Egret Goddess statue and colorful water jets from the music fountain dancing to the rhythm, attracting many locals and tourists. After the BRICS summit, the number of visitors gradually decreased, greatly improving the viewing experience. 3. Accommodation Recommendations 1) Hotels near Zhongshan Road Expensive but with an excellent location, right on Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street, only 300 meters from the Lujiang Night Tour boarding point. Rooms face Gulangyu Island, making travel very convenient. Just downstairs is a food street, and the Gulangyu ferry terminal is also nearby, with bus and subway stations around. Rooms are fully equipped, some with window bathtubs to enjoy sea views while soaking, and smart toilets. 2) Inns near Gulangyu Island Also expensive but excellently located, some inns are close to the Gulangyu ferry terminal, convenient for visitors to quickly return and rest after nighttime tours. The inns have a warm environment, attentive service, and rooms decorated with local characteristics, allowing guests to better experience Xiamen’s local culture. 4. Food Recommendations 1) Satay Noodles: A classic Fujian noodle dish, commonly found in Xiamen’s night markets and snack streets. Made with satay sauce as the main seasoning, the noodles are chewy, the broth rich and fragrant, and the aroma enticing. It can be paired with various seafood, meatballs, dried tofu, etc. Yuehua Satay Noodles, with rich broth and abundant toppings, are especially loved by locals. 2) Oyster Omelette: Made with fresh oysters coated in batter and pan-fried until crispy outside and tender inside. Served with special sauce and pickled radish, it tastes delicious and unique. Available at snack stalls on Gulangyu and Zhongshan Road. 3) Tusun Jelly: A distinctive cold dish made from boiled star worm gel mixed with special sauce. It looks crystal clear, with a chewy and smooth texture. Served with soy sauce, vinegar, mustard, and other condiments, it has a very unique flavor. The Tusu jelly at Bajie Market is considered authentic. 4) Peanut Soup: A sweet and tasty traditional Xiamen dessert, carefully made from peanuts, with a delicate texture and sweet but not greasy taste. Huang Zehe Peanut Soup shop is famous, also offering other Xiamen specialty snacks. 5) Ginger Duck: A Xiamen specialty, with tender duck meat and strong ginger flavor, offering a unique taste. Available in many restaurants and snack shops. 5. Notes 1) Best Time to Tour: Xiamen has a pleasant climate, suitable for night tours all year round, but from March to November the weather is relatively better, and the night temperature is comfortable for outdoor activities. Transportation: Xiamen has developed public transportation; for night tours, prioritize buses and subways for convenience and environmental protection. To reach the Lujiang Night Tour at Heping Pier, take bus or subway. If taking a taxi, be aware of possible traffic jams during peak tourist seasons or near popular spots, and allow enough time. On Gulangyu Island, transportation is mainly on foot, so wear comfortable shoes. 2) Food Choices: Xiamen has many delicacies, but when choosing snack stalls and restaurants, pay attention to food hygiene and try to select clean and sanitary places. For seafood and other foods, ensure freshness to avoid discomfort. 3) Shopping and Spending: When shopping at night markets or scenic spots, be careful to identify product quality and prices to avoid counterfeit or overpriced goods. For souvenirs, bargaining is acceptable but maintain politeness. 4) Safety: Choose crowded places for night tours and avoid remote areas. When playing by the sea, pay attention to safety and avoid dangerous areas. Bring mosquito repellents like wristbands or insect sprays to prevent bites. Also, carry drinking water and maintain good rest and eating habits. 5) Weather Changes: Xiamen’s weather can be changeable; check the forecast before going out and bring rain gear. Adjust plans promptly in bad weather to ensure safety. 6. Summary When you finish your night tour in Xiamen, your heart will be filled with the city’s nighttime beauty and charm. Whether it’s the dazzling coastal night views, delicious local foods, or unique historical culture, all will become unforgettable memories. We hope this guide helps you have a pleasant and memorable night in Xiamen, personally experiencing the city’s unique night charm and creating your own wonderful story.