Xiamen Highlights Sightseeing Tour

Xiamen, a coastal city in southeast China, offers a captivating sightseeing tour that unveils its cultural and natural wonders. This 8-hour experience takes visitors on a journey through the city’s serene gardens, historic temples, and impressive fortifications. From a scenic ferry ride to Gulangyu Island to savoring authentic Fujian cuisine, the tour promises an immersive exploration of Xiamen’s diverse attractions. With professional guidance and private transportation, travelers can explore the heart of this vibrant city and uncover the stories that have shaped its unique character.

Key Points

• This 8-hour expedition offers a comprehensive tour of Xiamen’s top attractions, including Gulangyu Island, Shuzhuang Garden, South Putuo Temple, and Hulishan Cannon Fort.
• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, private transportation, professional guide, and entrance fees, providing a hassle-free sightseeing experience.
• Highlights of the tour include a scenic coastal drive, a stroll through Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street, and the opportunity to learn about Xiamen’s cultural, religious, and military heritage.
• Visitors will have the chance to explore the picturesque Shuzhuang Garden, known for its bamboo forests, tranquil lotus ponds, and intricate rock formations.
• The tour features a local Chinese lunch on Xiamen Island, allowing visitors to enjoy the authentic flavors of Fujian cuisine.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Xiamen Highlights Sightseeing Tour provides travelers an opportunity to explore the city’s top attractions over the course of an 8-hour expedition.

Priced at £202.82 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by private car or van, a professional guide, and all entrance fees.

Highlights include a ferry ride to picturesque Gulangyu Island, a visit to Shuzhuang Garden, lunch at a local restaurant, and exploration of the South Putuo Temple and Hulishan Cannon Fort.

The tour also features a scenic coastal drive and a stroll through Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour offers a convenient and comprehensive way to experience Xiamen’s top sights.

Itinerary

The tour begins with hotel pick-up from downtown Xiamen, after which participants take a ferry to the picturesque Gulangyu Island.

On the island, visitors will:

• Explore the scenic Shuzhuang Garden, with its bamboo forests and pavilions
• Return to Xiamen Island to enjoy a local Chinese lunch
• Visit the prominent Buddhist monument of South Putuo Temple and the world’s biggest cannon at Hulishan Cannon Fort.

The tour concludes with a relaxing drive along the East Coast and a stroll through the city’s commercial area, Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street.

Pick-up and Ferry

Starting the tour, guests are picked up from their hotels in downtown Xiamen.

They’ll then board a ferry to explore the natural beauty and ancient architecture of Gulangyu Island. This small, pedestrian-only island is known for its diverse architecture, lush greenery, and stunning coastal views.

During the ferry ride, travelers can admire the island’s picturesque scenery, including its winding lanes, historic buildings, and tranquil parks.

Upon arrival, the group will head to the Shuzhuang Garden, a scenic layout with bamboo forests and pavilions, providing a peaceful respite from the bustling city.

After the visit, the tour continues with a return to Xiamen Island for lunch at a local restaurant.

Shuzhuang Garden

Shuzhuang Garden, a serene oasis nestled within Gulangyu Island, enchants visitors with its scenic layout.

Meandering paths wind through bamboo forests, leading to charming pavilions and stone bridges.

Highlights include:

• Tranquil lotus ponds, their still waters reflecting the surrounding pagodas and greenery.
• Intricate rock formations, sculpted by nature over centuries, creating a captivating natural landscape.
• Delicate bonsai trees, carefully pruned and displayed, showcasing the art of traditional Chinese gardening.

The harmonious blend of natural elements and architectural design creates a peaceful sanctuary, inviting travelers to enjoy the island’s timeless beauty.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch and South Putuo Temple

After exploring the serene Shuzhuang Garden, the tour group returns to Xiamen Island to enjoy a local Chinese lunch. The meal provides a chance to experience authentic Fujian cuisine and recharge before continuing the tour.

Following lunch, the group visits the prominent South Putuo Temple, one of the island’s most significant Buddhist monuments. Wandering the temple’s tranquil grounds, they admire the intricate architecture and learn about the site’s rich history.

The tour guide shares insights into the temple’s cultural and religious significance, offering a deeper appreciation for Xiamen’s spiritual heritage. With stomachs full and minds enriched, the group prepares to continue their journey, eager to discover the next highlight of the Xiamen sightseeing experience.

Hulishan Cannon Fort

The tour next takes visitors to the imposing Hulishan Cannon Fort, a historic military defense site that houses the world’s largest cannon.

This impressive structure offers a glimpse into Xiamen’s past, showcasing:

• The colossal Krupp cannon, a massive 47-ton weapon with a firing range of over 10 kilometers
• Intricate underground tunnels and passages that were once used for storage and defense
• Sweeping views of the East China Sea, allowing visitors to imagine the fort’s strategic importance in bygone eras

Exploring the Hulishan Cannon Fort provides a unique opportunity to learn about Xiamen’s military heritage and the engineering feats of the past.

East Coast Scenic Drive

Moving on from the historic Hulishan Cannon Fort, the tour now takes visitors on a relaxing drive along Xiamen’s picturesque East Coast. This scenic route offers stunning views of the city’s rugged coastline and the sparkling East China Sea. Along the way, travelers can admire the towering cliffs, serene bays, and lush greenery that characterize this beautiful region.

To fully immerse in the coastal experience, the tour includes several stops at scenic viewpoints. Here’s a closer look at what visitors can expect:

Scenic Viewpoint	Highlights
Xiamen University	Panoramic ocean vistas
Guanyin Mountain	Breathtaking cliffside panoramas
Zeng Cuo An Beach	Golden sands and azure waters
Yundang Lake	Tranquil lakeside settings
Wuyi Mountain	Lush, forested mountainscapes

Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street

Concluding the Xiamen Highlights tour, visitors stroll along the bustling Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street – the city’s commercial heart.

This lively promenade offers a delightful shopping and dining experience, showcasing:

• Rows of charming shops, boutiques, and street vendors selling local handicrafts, apparel, and delicacies
• Bustling crowds of locals and travelers browsing the vibrant scene, creating a lively atmosphere
• Scattered restaurants and cafes providing opportunities to savor Xiamen’s culinary delights

Meandering through this vibrant commercial district, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the pulse of Xiamen’s urban life before concluding their comprehensive sightseeing tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Attractions?

Yes, the tour can be customized to visit specific attractions. Travelers can work with the tour provider to create a personalized itinerary that focuses on their interests and preferences for the Xiamen sightseeing experience.

How Accessible Is the Tour for People With Disabilities?

The tour appears accessible for people with disabilities. It includes hotel pickup, transportation by private car or van, and professional guides who can assist guests. However, specific accessibility accommodations should be confirmed directly with the tour operator.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

The tour operator doesn’t mention any discounts or special offers on their website. However, travelers may want to check if they qualify for any senior, student, or group discounts by contacting the operator directly.

Can We Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, the tour operator offers private tour options. Travelers can book a private tour with just their group for a more personalized experience. Private tours are available for an additional fee beyond the standard tour price.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Light layers are advised as the tour involves both indoor and outdoor activities across different environments.

The Sum Up

The Xiamen Highlights Sightseeing Tour offers an enriching experience that showcases the city’s stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant local life. From serene gardens to historic temples, scenic coastal drives to bustling pedestrian streets, this comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Xiamen’s top attractions, making it an exceptional choice for visitors seeking to enjoy the city’s captivating charm.

You can check if your dates are available here: