Most China tours skip Fujian. That's a mistake. Xiamen is a relaxed coastal city with the car-free island of Gulangyu — colonial architecture, piano museums, ocean views. And in the mountains nearby, the Tulou: huge circular earthen fortresses built by Hakka clans, some housing 80 families under one roof. So unusual that Cold War satellites mistook them for missile silos.
What you\'ll see in Xiamen
Gulangyu Island
A car-free island of colonial architecture and piano museums — UNESCO-listed, no traffic, rare peace in urban China.
Fujian Tulou Roundhouses
Massive circular earthen fortresses, 5 stories tall, housing entire clans. UNESCO World Heritage. Still lived in.
Nanputuo Temple
Centuries-old Buddhist temple at the foot of Wulao Peak, overlooking the university and sea.
Huandao Coastal Road
A scenic coastal drive/bike path along Xiamen's southern shore — palm trees, beaches, ocean.
Hakka Family Breakfast
Eat breakfast with a Hakka family inside a 400-year-old Tulou. Then walk between fortresses of different shapes.
Fujian Cuisine
The best seafood in southeast China — Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, the famous complex soup, originated here.
Practical info
Tours through Xiamen
Ready-made itineraries that include this city.
Nearby destinations
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