Xiamen travel guide and discussion

Ready to glow up your walking game? Xiamen’s Mountain-Sea Health Trail is THE move for anyone craving nature, adventure, and serious views—all rolled into one epic 54 km journey! Lace up and get ready to explore trails that literally go from shady forests to the sparkling ocean 🌲➡️🏖️. And yes, it’s totally free! This Insta-worthy path is split into two must-try routes: 🌥️ The 23 km Cloud-Sea Line: Starts at the Xiamen International Cruise Terminal (海沧大道99号, open 24/7), cruising all the way to Guanyinshan Beach, crossing EIGHT lush hilltops and gliding over three dreamy waterways. Imagine panoramic city + sea views while you walk! 🌳 The 31 km Forest-Sea Line: Begins at Wuyuan Bay (湖里区湖里大道8号, open 24/7), taking you over the treetops and ending at the lively Huandao Road. This one’s all about tranquil forest vibes with sneak peeks of the ocean popping through. High up and away from the city noise, the trail’s wooden walkways make every step easy on your feet and your mood. Whether you’re power-walking, jogging, or just looking to snap some killer pics for your feed, this trail serves ALL the vibes. Quick Tips: · Entry is 100% free! Bring water, sunscreen, and your top energy—that trail’s a loooong one. · Both start/end points are easy to reach by taxi, bus, or bike. · Go early morning or sunset for peak chill and insane views. Trust—Xiamen’s Mountain-Sea Trail deserves a spot on your bucket list! For more details and travel inspo, check out trip.com before you go.

China is full of places that look straight out of a dream 🇨🇳✨ No cap, this country is a total vibe! Let’s talk about some absolutely gorgeous spots—every single one deserves a spot on your travel mood board. From the romantic, ancient streets of Lijiang (Old Town Address: Gucheng District, Lijiang, Yunnan Province; Open 24/7 so you can wander literally whenever!) to the laid-back, breezy coastline of Xiamen (Gulangyu Island, Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian Province; Ferry hours: 7:00–18:30), each city has its own aesthetic that’s major Insta goals. Here’s my personal ranking of the dreamiest cities—they just hit different! But hey, which one would YOU give a full 10/10? 👀 Drop your favs in the comments and let’s spill the tea! Don’t forget to save this post for your ultimate China travel bucket list. Your next unreal adventure might be just a flight away! ✈️🔥 Ready for more wanderlust? Peep trip.com for planning info, hotel recs, and all the hidden gems you need.

I. Introduction: Step Into the Golden Age of Old China 🚶♂️🌆📜 1. Travel back to the late Qing Dynasty chaos, roaring Republican era streets, and long-lost Chinese daily scenes 2. These museums safeguard one-of-a-kind, rarely seen photos from 1890 to 1930 no online archive can match 🤫 3. No blurry reposts, just original negatives, glass plate captures, and carefully preserved historical treasures 🧊🔍💎 II. The Ultimate Mega List of Must-Visit Museums 🏛️🗺️📚 1. Hong Kong Palace Museum 🏯: Holds hundreds of foreign missionary-taken photos of 1900s Forbidden City life and old Beijing hutong scenes 2. Suzhou Museum 🌸: Stores rare 1920s Suzhou water town lifestyle shots by early Chinese photography pioneers 🛶 3. Xiamen Chen Jiageng Memorial Hall 🧑🤝🧑: Features massive collections of 1910s-1930s Xiamen port and overseas Chinese migration photos 4. Xiamen Revolutionary Martyrs' Deeds Exhibition Hall 🕊️: Has rare period photos of 1920s-1930s local labor movements and Fujian regional revolutionary moments 5. Wuxi Chinese Sex Culture Museum (Tongli) 🎎: Curates unique 1890s-1930s folk custom photos that you cannot find in any mainstream museum 6. Xiamen General Trade Union Former Site Memorial Hall 🏚️: Preserves original photos of 1920s Xiamen workers' movements and old city street views 7. Fujian Yuangu History Museum 🏺: Boasts a little-known collection of 1900s Fujian rural life photos shot by foreign explorers 🚶♀️ 8. Xiamen Hero Three Islands Battlefield Tourist Zone ⚓: Holds rare 1930s photos of coastal defense and southeastern Fujian fishing village daily life 9. Suzhou Zodiac Stamp Museum 📮: Displays vintage 1920s postal history photos capturing street post offices across old China 10. Suzhou Yunjin Brick Museum 🧱: Showcases early 1900s photos of traditional Suzhou craft workshops and ancient city construction scenes 11. Wuzhen Folk Custom Museum 🎋: Guards thousands of 1910s-1930s Yangtze River Delta rural wedding and festival photos 12. Shanghai History Museum 🌃: Houses iconic 1920s Shanghai Bund nightlife and concession era street life photos 🚋 13. Guangdong Museum 🌊: Collects rare 1890s-1930s photos of Guangzhou's thirteen hong trade port scenes 14. Chengdu Museum 🐼: Preserves 1910s-1930s photos of old Chengdu streets, tea houses and Sichuan local daily life 15. Nanjing Museum 🏛️: Features precious 1920s Sun Yat-sen era historical documentation photos across the whole country III. Why These Collections Are So Unmissable 🤩💛🪄 1. Every photo freezes a fleeting moment that no other record can fully bring back to life 🕰️ 2. You can trace old China's transformation from feudal Qing rule to the vibrant Republican period right before your eyes 3. Most of these shots were never widely circulated, so you get exclusive access to hidden history almost no one has seen 🔐 Which of these museums are you planning to add to your travel bucket list first? #travelersvoice #chinatravelcircle #traveltips #myitinerary #travel2026 #travel #staycation #thingstodo #museums #china #chinatravel #travelchina #trip #tripblazers #tripcom

Stepping into 菟竹集 feels like entering a calm, botanical sanctuary. The interior design masterfully blends traditional oriental elements with modern Chinese aesthetics (摩登国风). I recently dropped by, and what initially drew me in was the serene, nature-inspired vibe. The entire space is filled with lush greenery, soft moss accents, and elegant traditional Chinese elements that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a peaceful urban garden. It’s quiet, beautifully lit, and super cozy—the kind of spot where you actually want to sit back, unwind, and enjoy your drink slowly. 菟竹集 brings together the best of both worlds: a peaceful, leafy ambiance and a unique, health-conscious twist on fresh milk tea. Whether you’re looking for a quiet moment to yourself or a nice catch-up spot with friends, it’s a lovely gem to check out. As seen in the photo, the backdrop is filled with vibrant moss textures, leafy tropical accents, and white floral elements. It creates a cozy, botanical feel that immediately stands out. #travel2026 #localfood #foodblog

Highly, highly, highly recommended (ranked in order! The others not on the list are also delicious) 1️⃣ Bafun sea urchin (specifically asked for this one this time) 2️⃣ Concubine Clam (delicious 😋) 3️⃣ White Jade Crab (the meat is so delicate, and that crab roe 🥹) 4️⃣ Brisket and liver with Yong'an highland rice (😋) Came back to eat here again before leaving Xiamen! The menus were different both times (menus in images 4 & 5). I'm really quite lucky when it comes to food. The first 4 dishes have made it onto my life's best food list 🧾 This time I was also introduced to Fujian's 🍵 Baiya Qilan tea. Oh my! It's so good. Super full, incredibly full (two girls really ate until we were stuffed) Average cost 400–600. The king of value for Black Pearl restaurants

Heading to Xiamen soon! Are there any must-eat spots that locals actually go to? Could any locals help me review which places I should cut and what else I should add? Appreciate it! 🙏

The best food in Xiamen is always low-key... I take my friends here every time they visit Xiamen!! Their satay noodles are so delicious, and they have all kinds of Xiamen snacks ✔️ Baby lobster satay noodles. The baby lobster is very bouncy, and the whole bowl is packed with generous toppings. The satay broth is very rich. Their other options, like the abalone satay noodles, are also good. If you don't like seafood, there are other toppings to choose from. 🙋 Their other snacks are also delicious. Things like the black gold matcha taro pastry, double egg yolk roll, and five-spice roll are all great!!       

As a local, yeah. Zhongshan Road is so crowded... Can out-of-town tourists really tell which shops in the Zhongshan Road commercial area are truly old-school? Let me list the truly old-school shops I know that are still around. Feel free to add more. Image 3: Te Xiang Bao. It's just the everyday bread from my childhood, I don't get the hype. Image 5: Chopped fruit salad, old stall, at the entrance of Jukou Heng Lane. Image 6: Jukou Mixed Noodles, old shop, it's okay. Image 7: Lianhuan Oyster Omelet, old stall, locals think it's not good. Image 8: Chenjia Dessert, not bad. Image 9: Satay Noodles, old shop, but I'm not a fan. Image 10: Egg burger, it's been around for a while, but I don't like it. Image 11: Satay BBQ, the taste is okay, but the portion size isn't what it used to be. Image 12: Energetic girl, dancing on the side of the road (let's call it dancing), new product. Also forgot to take pictures of 1980 Zongzi and Yapo. Does anyone else know of any other old-school shops that are still around? Please help me add to the list, thanks.

Ready to flex those wanderlust goals and dive into pure luxury? China’s got the glam game on lock, and these nine cities are bringing serious heat! If you’re all about high-end vibes and Insta-worthy scenes, here’s why you NEED to plan your next boujee adventure ASAP: 1. Shenzhen Tech capital vibes, and this city is totally serving looks! Shenzhen = non-stop shopping, next-level nightlife, and pure futuristic energy. Pro tip: Shop ‘til you drop at Coco Park (Fuhua 1st Road, Futian District; open daily 10:00-22:00) or stroll through glitzy OCT Harbour at sundown. Sleep? Not in this city, fam. 2. Guangzhou Home of the OG dim sum (sooo good!) and wild rooftop bars. Cruise the neon-lit Pearl River at night for epic vibes, then splurge at Luxetown malls in Tianhe district. Don’t miss the next-level view from Canton Tower (222 Yuejiang W Rd, Haizhu; open 9:00-22:00)—the neon cityscape at night is peak luxury! 3. Shanghai Glam central—no cap! The Bund at sunset will leave your jaw on the floor. The city lights here? Chef’s kiss 😘. Shop designer finds on Nanjing Road or slip into a mysterious speakeasy. Must-see: The Bund (Zhongshan East 1st Rd, Huangpu District; open 24/7). 4. Beijing Classic meets modern chic—luxury for DAYS. Wander through the Forbidden City (4 Jingshan Front St, Dongcheng; 8:30-17:00, closed Mondays), then get cozy in a super cute 5-star hutong hotel. Art zones and upscale malls = main character energy, always. 5. Hainan Paradise, delivered. Luxe beachfront resorts, palm trees, and infinity pools for days. Sanya Bay (Tianya District, Sanya; open 24/7) is your go-to for sandy snaps—warning: you won’t wanna leave! 6. Hangzhou Straight-up fairytale mode. Get lost at dreamy West Lake (Xihu District; open 24/7, boat rentals 8:00-17:00), then treat yourself at lakeside tea rooms and silk boutiques. Ultimate romantic getaway vibes incoming! 7. Chongqing Skyline views + fire hotpot = iconic. Book a fancy skyscraper hotel for unreal views, then go full foodie at Hongya Cave (186F Jiefangbei, Yuzhong; 10:00-22:00). The neon night scenes here? Mind-blowing 🤯. 8. Xiamen Beachy feels PLUS colonial chic. Chill on Gulangyu Island (Siming District; ferries 7:30-18:00), sip seafront cocktails, and hop Insta-friendly cafés all day. Total dream status! 9. Chengdu Panda paradise AND teahouse heaven. Luxe meets laid-back with stylish bars, chill teahouses, and late-night party spots. Don’t miss Kuanzhai Alley (127 Kuanxiangzi, Qingyang; 10:00-22:00) for the perfect pic—and YES, the spicy hotpot is everything. Ready to travel like an absolute VIP? Book your hotels and tap into these iconic Chinese cities—and their must-see hotspots—on trip.com for the hottest deals and pure glam getaways! So, which city is calling your name first? Drop your top pick in the comments! 💬👇

Xiamen is a city where the charm lies not just in its landmarks, but in the way it blends the sea, islands, historic streets, local flavors, and coastal life into a single journey. If you’re looking to travel without the pressure of checking off a list every hour, this city is perfect. The concept for this trip is WINTER BY THE SEA — A SLOWER SIDE OF CHINA 🌿 🏝️ 4 Spots You Must Visit in Xiamen · Gulangyu 鼓浪屿 — Take a ferry to wander this island. Spend time in its narrow alleys, under the lush trees, and amidst the historic architecture. There’s no need to rush to every corner. · Nanputuo Temple 南普陀寺 — Change the pace from the seaside to the serene atmosphere of temple grounds and Buddhist culture. · Shapowei 沙坡尾 — Another side of Xiamen that captures both the soul of an old fishing port and the creative energy of the new generation. · Zhongshan Road 中山路 — Walk through 'Old City Life' along this commercial street lined with arcade buildings, local eateries, and bustling crowds. 🍜 When in Xiamen, Travel Through the City's "Flavors" Start with the Oyster Omelette 海蛎煎, a dish that perfectly mirrors this coastal city. Follow it with Shacha Noodles 沙茶面, one of Xiamen’s most iconic tastes, and finish with something simple like the sweet Peanut Soup 花生汤. But Xiamen shouldn't be experienced just by "Eating + Checking in." Try taking the boat to Gulangyu, finding a quiet cafe near the water, and setting aside time to walk or bike along Huandao Road 环岛路 during the golden hour. Sometimes, the highlight of this city is simply the moments when we aren't doing anything special at all. 🗓️ Xiamen 4 Days 3 Nights: A Slower Itinerary DAY 1 — MEET THE ISLAND Gulangyu → Island Walk → Ferry Back → Zhongshan Road DAY 2 — OLD XIAMEN Nanputuo Temple → City Walk → Shapowei DAY 3 — FOLLOW THE COAST Huandao Road → Coastal Walk / Cycling → Seaside Rest → Golden Hour DAY 4 — ONE SLOW MORNING Local Breakfast → Neighborhood Stroll → Coffee / Tea → Departure 💡 Don't Pack Your Schedule Too Tight If you plan to visit Gulangyu, book your ferry tickets in advance. In the city, you can mix Metro, Bus, Taxi, and Walking depending on the area. Most importantly, leave some free time for the coast. Because Xiamen isn't a city that demands the question: “How many places did we hit today?” Instead, it’s a place for the question: “Shall we just keep walking until we reach the sea?” 🌊 From Gulangyu → Old Streets → A bowl of Shacha Noodles → Sea Breezes → Golden Light on the shore… This is a different side of China. XIAMEN 厦门 WINTER BY THE SEA. STAY A LITTLE LONGER. Explore independently.

Xiamen is one of the relaxing cities in Mainland China that offers seaside walks and is a ferry away from the Gulangyu Island, which features the UNESCO heritage gardens and Piano Museum. It is where I lived and studied for a month when I was young and as far as I can remember, it is a very nice place with great people. Getting around Xiamen used to require cash when taking a bus back then. However nowadays things have changed and digital payments such as Alipay and WeChat are used to process payment transactions. For local foods, I do recall having congee paired with youtiao for breakfast. Eggs were always present on each meal - be it steamed egg, boiled egg or scrambled egg. And of course, there was yang chow fried rice which can’t go wrong. Then, there’s the oyster omelette which goes well with ketchup, and the shacha noodles which gives a nutty taste. For dessert, there’s the sweet peanut soup which gives a creamy and sweet broth. As a young student, I used to hang out in Zhongshan Road a lot to listen to the latest released songs in stores and buy CDs. This is, of course, no longer the same. But Zhongshan Road is still a must visit place as it gives off a European with traditional Fujian atmosphere. It is lively at night and there are local snacks being sold on street. Overall, it’s a place that I would recommend for people to visit in China, especially if they love coastal street culture. #travelersvoice #chinatravelcircle

Tired of the crowds and commercialization in Xiamen, I discovered Wuyishan, a hidden gem recommended by National Geographic! With green mountains, misty clouds, and the fragrance of rock tea, it's the perfect place to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and feel completely rejuvenated. A 2–3 day trip is just right! 📍Location: Wuyishan, Fujian | Dahongpao Scenic Area ⏰Recommended duration: 2–3 days 💰Average cost per person: CNY 500–700 ✅Must-visit spots 1. **Dahongpao Scenic Area** The crown jewel of Wuyishan! You must see the Dahongpao mother trees clinging to the cliffs here. The stone walls are steep, and the tea trees are rooted in the rock crevices, surrounded by lush greenery. Hike along the Rock Bone and Flower Fragrance Trail, where you'll find streams, tea gardens, and unique rock formations along the way. The air is filled with a faint tea fragrance, and the hike is easy enough for all ages. 2. **Nine-Bend Stream Bamboo Rafting** The quintessential Wuyishan experience! Drift downstream on a bamboo raft as you take in the continuous strange peaks and rock formations on both banks. It's like a landscape painting coming to life. Remember to book in advance, and choose a morning session for a better misty atmosphere. 3. **Tianyou Peak** The perfect spot for a panoramic view of Nine-Bend Stream from above. If you're not up for a full climb, you don't have to push yourself to the summit; the view from halfway up is already breathtaking. 4. **Wuyi Palace + Song Street** An old street built in the style of the Song Dynasty. It's quiet and uncrowded, making it a great place to browse tea shops, learn about the history of Wuyi rock tea, and take a break for photos. 🍜Food recommendations Wuyi smoked goose, Langu tofu, Zhuzi Xiaomu cakes, and Wuyi dried bamboo shoots. The local farmhouse dishes are authentic. Be sure to try the tea snacks made with rock tea—enjoying tea with these treats is a true Wuyi experience. 🏨Accommodation suggestions For convenience, choose the Sangu Resort Area, where restaurants and homestays are concentrated and close to the entrances of major scenic spots. If you prefer peace and quiet, choose Xingcun Town, which is surrounded by tea gardens and offers more affordable prices. ⚠️Travel tips 1. The Dahongpao trail has many stone steps, so be sure to wear comfortable, non-slip shoes. 2. The scenic area is large, so it's recommended to buy a joint ticket, which allows multiple entries within the validity period. 3. Bamboo rafting must be booked in advance, as tickets sell out quickly during peak season. 4. There is a significant temperature difference in the mountains, so bring a light jacket even in summer. Free from the crowded throngs of Xiamen, Wuyishan is a hidden sanctuary of mountains, water, and tea fragrance. Walking through the valleys of Dahongpao, listening to the babbling streams, and surrounded by lush greenery—this hidden gem is truly worth a special trip!

· If I didn't like the food in the past, I definitely wouldn't have come back a second time. This is a family-run shop, not a long-standing, traditional satay noodle establishment, but rather one that started later. It has probably been open for about ten years now. It became popular at the beginning of the pandemic and has been on the "Must-Eat" list for several years, which gave this little shop hidden in the alleys of Zengcuo'an a certain level of fame. However, in the last two years, Wulan Satay Noodles nearby has received Michelin recognition, making it even more popular, which has somewhat affected business here. · · I even snuck a photo of two dishes someone else ordered that looked better than mine. · The broth here was developed by the couple themselves, and they insist on simmering it fresh every morning, which is the origin of the shop's name, "Chenxi" (Morning Light). The broth tastes naturally fresh and sweet without losing its richness, and the little specks of red oil floating on top are very appetizing. The large chunks of duck blood and tofu are just how I like them—very plump and moist. The quality of the two types of meatballs is also good, with a solid meaty texture, and the diced taro inside is soft and glutinous—delicious. It's actually rare to see enoki mushrooms and shiitake mushrooms added to satay noodles, but they were cooked well, soaking up the broth, and were quite palatable. · You can swap the noodles here for instant noodles, and you can also get free noodle refills. It's a delicious bowl of satay noodles where you can finish both the soup and the noodles. I think if I had to choose between Chenxi and Wulan, I would still choose Chenxi. As for why, I'll explain that when I write about Wulan later.

Zhangzhou is a city in Fujian Province that is perfect for those who love historic towns and local culture. Start by wandering through Zhangzhou Ancient City to admire its historic alleys, Minnan-style architecture, and local eateries. Then, head out of town to experience one of the region's most iconic highlights: the Fujian Tulou, massive Hakka earth buildings that come in both circular and rectangular shapes. 🏘️✨ The charm of Zhangzhou lies in its simplicity and a relaxed pace that hasn't yet been overwhelmed by mass tourism. You can explore the old town, sample authentic Fujianese cuisine, visit rural villages, and witness the local way of life. It’s the perfect destination for anyone wanting to see a different side of China, distinct from nearby Xiamen. 🤍

Thrilled to snag a deal✨ Stay near the Twin Towers for just over 100, direct sea view, so stylish! Found a super surprising place to stay on my Xiamen trip 😭 120 💰, just over 100, right near the Twin Towers, facing the sea! The location is truly unbeatable ✅ Walking distance to the Twin Towers, very convenient for visiting popular landmarks. Close to the beach, perfect for evening strolls to feel the sea breeze and watch the sunset over the ocean 🌊 Plenty of food and convenience stores nearby, making shopping, dining, and getting around super easy. Open the curtains and you can see the blue ocean. Enjoy the blue sea and sky during the day, and the dazzling city night view at night. No need to crowd into popular observation decks; you can get stunning sea view photos right from your room. The room is clean and tidy, with all basic amenities provided. The value for money is unbeatable! Perfect for students, girls' trips, or short couple getaways. For those on a budget who still want to experience a Xiamen sea view, save your money for seafood and sightseeing—your happiness will double ✨ You can just follow this guide when you come to Xiamen!

Before heading to Xiamen, I foolishly packed a bunch of heavy denim jackets and stiff leather shoes, thinking it would be freezing by the sea. It turned out the sun was blazing, and after walking endlessly along the Island Ring Road, I couldn't wear the heavy clothes, and my feet suffered in those hard-soled shoes 😂 📸 Photo spots ✔️ Gulangyu Island's international villas: Retro Nanyang-style architecture with walls that have a vintage texture, perfect for atmospheric portraits in courtyards and alleys ✔️ Shapowei Art Zone: Old fishing boats paired with colorful houses, blending the city with the sea—great for artistic, casual shots ✔️ Huangcuo Beach: An expansive coastline with soft morning light, ideal for sunrise photos and beach portraits ✔️ Nanputuo Temple: Red walls paired with greenery, quiet and elegant, perfect for clean, soft photos ✔️ Island Ring Road cycling path: Ride along the coastline with coconut trees lining the road; great for dynamic action shots while cycling ✅ Accommodation guide 🏨 Around Zhongshan Road: Very convenient for travel, close to the ferry terminal, packed with snacks at the Eighth Market, and plenty of chain hotel options—easy for dining and shopping 🏨 Near Huangcuo Beach: The beach is right outside your door, with a wide variety of guesthouses; perfect if you want to watch the sunrise over the sea 🏨 Zengcuo'an area: Lots of seaside guesthouses, dense with snack shops, strong vacation vibes, and very comfortable for evening strolls 🏨 Around Jimei School Village: High cost-performance, beautiful Jimei-style old buildings, quiet, and suitable for those who like to explore at a leisurely pace ⚠️ Travel tips ❶ The terrain alternates between sandy beaches and old stone-paved alleys, and the rocky areas can be slippery, so watch your step and try to wear non-slip, soft-soled shoes. ❷ The sun is still strong during this time, and the sea reflects light, so don't be lazy with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses when visiting outdoor attractions. ❸ The attractions are scattered, so there's no need to rush to see them all in one day; pick the ones you like and stroll around slowly. ❹ During the hottest part of the day at noon, find a nearby shop to rest and avoid walking around in the high heat. ❺ When playing in the water, pay attention to the tides and don't walk alone into the deep mudflats, as the tide rises very quickly. ❻ There are many street vendors selling seafood and local specialties; choose rationally and don't buy a huge amount at once. ❼ Carry a water bottle with you and refill at local shops, as walking along the coast for a long time can easily lead to dehydration and fatigue.

You ask me where to have fun in Xiamen, these ten places are so amazing you won’t say a word after visiting one You ask me where to have fun in Xiamen, these ten places are so amazing you won’t say a word after visiting one

A chill seaside city with beautiful photo spots, cute cafes, delicious food, and easy access – perfect for a short getaway if you want both beach views and an old city atmosphere ✨ 📍 4-Day, 3-Night Itinerary DAY 1: Arrive in Xiamen, check into hotel, stroll along Zhongshan Road pedestrian street and sample street food. DAY 2: Visit Gulangyu Island, admire European-style architecture, stroll along the beach and take photos at cafes. DAY 3: Visit Nanputuo Temple, explore Xiamen Botanical Garden, and stop for photos along the beach road. DAY 4: Shopping, buying souvenirs, and exploring more cafes before heading home. 🍜 Must-try food: Sacha noodles, Xiamen-style oyster pancakes, and peanut soup. 💡 Travel tip: Book your ferry tickets to Gulangyu Island in advance and wear comfortable walking shoes because there are tons of beautiful spots for photos! ✈️ Complete your trip in 4 days and 3 nights! Plan your trip, book flights and accommodation at Trip.com #Tripcom #TripcomTH #Xiamen #TravelChina #4Days3NightsChina #TravelChinaIndependently #ChinaTravelReview

Freshly caught and cooked right here in Bashi Market—the freshness is a perfect 100! Alian truly lives up to its reputation as a landmark spot; their cooking skills are absolutely incredible! 🤯 Every dish I ordered this time hit the spot perfectly. ✅ Pan-fried crab with roe The roe is so thick it's practically oozing, and the crab meat is firm and bouncy—not dry at all. The charred aroma from the pan-frying wraps around the natural sweetness of the crab. It's so delicious you'll be licking your fingers; it's all about that immersive crab-eating experience! ✅ Steamed arctic surf clam with golden garlic No unnecessary seasoning here. The aroma of the golden garlic completely permeates the clam meat, which is crisp, tender, and bouncy. The vermicelli underneath soaks up all the juices—slurp it up, and the freshness hits you instantly. It's even more flavorful than the clam meat itself! ✅ Stir-fried mango clam The clam meat is plump and grit-free, with absolutely no fishy taste. There's a hint of spice that makes it fresh and refreshing. I could easily polish off three bowls of rice with this! If you come to Xiamen for the May Day holiday and don't eat at Alian, you've wasted your trip! Trust me! Save this and bookmark it! 🔥 📍Address: Alian Seafood Processing (No. 46 Kaihe Road), right inside Bashi Market

Xiamen is definitely not short on photogenic spots. I've compiled 18 free photo spots for you—save this for your trip!! P1 Jiageng Park P2, P3 Music Square P4 Garden Expo Park - Singapore Garden P5, P6 Dihuazhou P7 Huangcuo Shizhoutou - Three Coconut Trees 🌴 P8 Xitouxia P9 Pangui Tower P10 Jinshawan Hotel P11, P12 Ten-Mile Embankment P13, P14 Tianquan Trail Square P15 Yuannan Primary School P16 Haiwan Park P17 Baicheng Beach P18 Yuanyue Square

A friend from out of town visited Xiamen last week and specifically asked for authentic seafood, while also wanting to experience the vibrant local atmosphere of Bashi Market. The first stop was Alian Seafood Processing, one of the seafood landmarks in Bashi Market. With an open kitchen and display, all kinds of live seafood in the tanks are clear at a glance, so you don't have to worry about freshness. We ordered a few dishes that locals eat most often: boiled shrimp, which were firm and sweet—the original flavor was excellent enough; the sea snails were uniform in size, the meat was firm and bouncy, and dipping them in a little garlic soy sauce was just right to enhance the flavor—I couldn't stop at just one; the razor clams were especially plump, and once the scallion oil was poured over, the aroma was incredible, and they were solid, bouncy, and tender when eaten, with no grit. The cooking heat and seasoning at this shop are very Minnan—not fancy but very satisfying. The portions for each dish are generous, and for a few friends, the cost per person was under 100, making it the kind of solid, reliable food stall you'd want to visit again. While waiting for the food, I went to the Zhuji Shredded Chicken next door and bought half a chicken. The numbing, savory flavor was just right, the meat was tender and not dry, and it was a great appetizer to pair with the seafood. After finishing the seafood, I stopped by Huiyuan Bakery on the way to pick up a few freshly fried breads. The crust was soft and the filling was rich; they still tasted like authentic, nostalgic Xiamen flavor for breakfast the next day. That's Bashi Market for you—it seems like a typical market, but it hides many small shops that locals visit again and again. Eating your way through the seafood, snacks, and pastries, you'll definitely impress your friends. If you're also looking for places that don't rely on influencer filters but speak for themselves with their taste, you can safely add these to your list.

I'm finally meeting my long-distance boyfriend in person next month! We're meeting in romantic Xiamen, and I'm so excited just thinking about it! ✨ I want to stay in a homestay with a great vibe—an old villa on Gulangyu, an artistic courtyard in Zengcuo'an, or just staying by the sea and falling asleep to the sound of the waves 🌊 to experience a sweet trip! But! I've never stayed in a homestay before 😭 This is my first time hearing about the Muniao Homestay app, and I have no idea if it's reliable!! I scrolled through the reviews and I'm totally confused: some people stayed in beautiful sea-view rooms where the host even helped set up a romantic surprise 🎈 But others said they had a terrible experience—the photos didn't match the actual room, hygiene was concerning, the soundproofing was ridiculously bad, and getting the deposit back was a hassle 💢 I'm already nervous about meeting in person for the first time, and if the homestay is a disaster, I'll literally cry 😭 Asking any sisters who have used it to give me the lowdown! 👉 Is Muniao Homestay actually any good in Xiamen? 👉 What should I look out for when booking a homestay? How can I avoid getting scammed? 👉 Does anyone have any recommendations for reliable homestays near Gulangyu or Huandao Road? Help a girl out! Let me and my boyfriend have a sweet memory of our first meeting 🙇‍♀️"

A bit hard to find, but this place is truly stunning. At sunset, bubbles fill the air, and the setting sun dyes the island and peaks a warm orange—the orange-hued mountain and sea view is breathtaking! The 10-minute blue hour after the sun sets is even more stunning. The entire sky turns a cool, dusty blue. The suspended circular booths by the pool are also great for photos. Order a few Western-style snacks and pair them with a fruit wine. Feeling the mountain breeze and overlooking the mountain and sea sunset—it's just so relaxing. (Tips: I recommend arriving around 5:45 PM to catch both the sunset and the blue-hour night view. It's perfect for dates, small gatherings with friends, or group dinners.)

Location: Yanwu Bridge Observation Deck, Shapowei Date taken: November 7, 2025

To be honest, it wasn't really our first stop. Our actual first stop was Zhongshan Road and the Eighth Market. The place I least recommend is: Zhongshan Road: It's basically a commercial street, with souvenir shops everywhere. If you're specifically going to buy souvenirs, I think it's okay. If you're just going for sightseeing, I think it's pretty average. The food is also pretty average, mostly commercial shops. But one place had decent peanut soup. The Eighth Market: I really don't think it's worth going. If you're specifically going for seafood, the seafood is really fresh, but I didn't try it. I don't know the prices and I'm worried about overcharging. It's mostly seafood restaurants, not many local specialties or snacks. Baicheng Beach: It's incredibly comfortable to feel the sea breeze. Unfortunately, I didn't see the sunset today (the sunset was terrible). Even though it's not peak tourist season, it was still super crowded. Lots of people taking photos, but it depends on your photography skills. I didn't have anyone take photos; my friends did. But I think wearing flip-flops is more convenient. We didn't go swimming. So I didn't wear flip-flops. But if you want to take photos, you can still get great shots. We took the No. 22 bus around 5 PM. Unbelievable, the bus only costs 1 yuan! It really felt like it was free. So it depends on your needs. It takes about 40 minutes (due to traffic). The bus journey is long, and taxis also get stuck in traffic. It's better to choose the bus. If you want to see the sunrise, leave as early as possible. But the beach is generally very comfortable between 5 and 6 PM. That's all for today's recommendations and avoidance tips. One more thing: I found the hotel very comfortable. If you're planning to visit, I highly recommend it. It's also very close to Zhongshan Road/Eighth Market, basically in the city center area.

Had a meal on West Street in Quanzhou once and I still can't forget it 🥹🥹 Went straight to this old shop after visiting Kaiyuan Temple. The only downside: you have to queue! The signature ginger duck and shrimp and crab congee are all winners! It truly lives up to its reputation among the locals. The shop is small, and the menu is simple! The average cost per person is under 100. The seafood tastes super authentic. The owner loves creating new dishes. The pocket shrimp buns, baked ribs with pine nuts, and sweet and spicy chicken wings are so delicious 😭 I'm not kidding! It's located near the Shapowei Twin Towers (called 📍Dayuchuan). It's not far from Yue Temple, Kaiyuan Temple, West Street Bell Tower, Confucian Temple, and Chengtian Temple.

A Minnan restaurant recommended by a friend. I took the high-speed train specifically to eat here and visited Zengcuo'an while I was at it~ The spicy seafood platter is fresh, spicy, satisfying, and very generous. You can taste abalone, oysters, shrimp, crab, and clams all in one pot. No need to struggle with choices; it satisfies everything. The oyster omelet and hot fish soup are very authentic Minnan style! Pair them with the fragrant Minnan radish and taro savory rice (highly recommend this—I ate 2 bowls); you really must order the rice! The whole meal was pure happiness. Also, plenty of locals eat here, so it's not just a tourist trap~ The taste is really good. If you come to Xiamen, this culinary experience is definitely worth it!

Haha, their name is so auspicious—it's called Zheng Youcai! A very popular claypot seafood congee spot on Zhongshan Road. We didn't originally plan to eat here, but my friend insisted on trying it. The portions are generous, too—definitely enough for 2 people: Fresh shrimp, clam, and minced pork congee; claypot garlic pork belly; marinated clams; and blanched lettuce with oil—4 dishes in total. Honestly, it's a great value! 👍👍 Also, the seafood is fresh; the shrimp and clams have no fishy smell. The congee base is that kind of slow-simmered freshness, not just seasoning, so it passes the test! ✅ The claypot garlic pork belly and marinated clams were delicious!!! Especially the clams—they were very flavorful, slightly spicy, and paired perfectly with the congee. 😋 It's really not easy to find such affordable and delicious food on a popular tourist street, haha. Highly recommended!