5 day itinerary for Xiamen

Itinerary

Xiamen is a beautiful coastal city with a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 5-day itinerary for you and your wife to explore the best of Xiamen!

## Day 1: Arrival and Gulangyu Island

Morning:

• Arrive in Xiamen and check into your hotel. I recommend staying near the city center for easy access to attractions.
• Grab a light breakfast at a local café. Try some traditional Xiamen breakfast items like peanut soup or dumplings.

Afternoon:

• Head to Gulangyu Island! Take a ferry from Xiamen to this car-free island, which is just a short ride away.
• Explore the island’s charming streets, colonial architecture, and beautiful gardens. Don’t miss the Shuzhuang Garden and the Piano Museum!

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at one of the seafood restaurants on Gulangyu. Fresh seafood is a must-try here!
• After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the beach and enjoy the sunset views.

## Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Morning:

• Visit Nanputuo Temple, a beautiful Buddhist temple located at the foot of Wulao Mountain. The architecture and serene atmosphere are perfect for a peaceful morning.
• Take a short hike up Wulao Mountain for panoramic views of the city and the sea.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Xiamen University campus, one of the most picturesque universities in China. Walk around the campus and enjoy the beautiful lakes and gardens.
• Have lunch at a local eatery nearby. Try the famous Xiamen fried rice noodles!

Evening:

• Visit the Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street for some shopping and street food. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs and try local snacks like oyster omelets and spring rolls.
• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, and don’t forget to try the local specialty, “Shacha” sauce dishes!

## Day 3: Day Trip to Tulou

Morning:

• Take a day trip to the Fujian Tulou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These unique earthen buildings are fascinating and a great way to learn about the Hakka culture.
• You can hire a private car or join a guided tour for convenience.

Afternoon:

• Explore the various Tulou, such as the Nanjing Tulou cluster. Enjoy a traditional Hakka lunch in one of the Tulou.
• Take your time to wander around and soak in the rural scenery.

Evening:

• Return to Xiamen and relax at your hotel.
• For dinner, try a local hot pot restaurant for a fun and interactive dining experience!

## Day 4: Nature and Relaxation

Morning:

• Visit the Xiamen Botanical Garden, a lovely place to enjoy nature and see a variety of plants and flowers. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk.
• Don’t forget to check out the rock formations and the beautiful views of the coastline.

Afternoon:

• Head to Huandao Road, where you can rent bikes and ride along the scenic coastal path. It’s a fun way to explore the area!
• Stop for lunch at a beachside café and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Evening:

• Visit the Xiamen International Conference and Exhibition Center area for some stunning night views of the city skyline.
• Have dinner at a restaurant with a view, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the waterfront.

## Day 5: Local Culture and Departure

Morning:

• Visit the Huli Mountain Fort, a historical site with impressive coastal defenses and cannons. It’s a great place to learn about Xiamen’s history.
• Explore the nearby Xiamen Underwater World if you’re interested in marine life. It’s family-friendly and fun!

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant. Try some more local dishes you haven’t tasted yet!
• Spend your last few hours shopping for any last-minute souvenirs or gifts at local markets.

Evening:

• Depending on your flight time, you can either head to the airport or enjoy a final stroll along the beach.
• Depart from Xiamen with wonderful memories!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Xiamen! Each day is packed with a mix of culture, nature, and delicious food, making it perfect for a family-friendly adventure. Enjoy your trip! 🌏✈️