Xiamen Gulangyu Island: Where Art and History Collide

When traveling to Xiamen, if you don't visit Gulangyu Island, you're missing out! As the saying goes, "A trip to Xiamen without visiting Gulangyu is a wasted trip." It's no exaggeration to say that Gulangyu is the highlight of Xiamen tourism and a must-visit destination! From the apartment, it's just a half-hour drive to the ferry terminal, making it incredibly convenient to reach Gulangyu Island. Gulangyu Island is located southwest of Xiamen Island, covering an area of 1.87 square kilometers and home to approximately 16,000 residents. It is separated from Xiamen Island by the 500-meter-wide Lujiang River. The name "Gulangyu" comes from a two-meter-high reef with a hole in the middle on the island's southwest beach. When the tide rises, the waves crash against the reef, creating a sound reminiscent of drumming. Isn't the name evocative? Gulangyu Island boasts a winding coastline surrounded by gentle slopes and fine sandy beaches. There are numerous attractions to explore, including Sunlight Rock, Shuzhuang Garden, Haoyue Garden, Yuyuan Garden, Island Ring Road, Gulang Stone, Piano Museum, Zheng Chenggong Memorial Hall, Underwater World, and natural beaches, among others. Each spot is captivating and worth visiting. The island is lush with greenery year-round, filled with the sounds of birds and the fragrance of flowers. The air is so fresh it feels purified. The island also preserves a variety of architectural styles, including traditional Chinese temples with flying eaves, Minnan-style courtyard houses, the Bagua Building blending Chinese and Western elements, quaint Japanese houses, and 19th-century European-style consulates. Walking on the island feels like stepping into an architectural art gallery, earning it the nickname "World Architecture Expo." Strolling through the quiet, secluded alleys of Gulangyu, you're surrounded by lush greenery, and the weathered courtyard walls seem to whisper the island's history. Here, time seems to slow down, like sunlight filtering through the leaves, flowing leisurely. Visiting Gulangyu, you'll understand that its charm lies in the passage of time. Friends, don't just admire it from afar; pack your bags and come to Gulangyu to experience its beauty firsthand! Trust me, once you set foot on this land, you'll be captivated and reluctant to leave! Share in the comments which Gulangyu attractions you most want to visit, and you might find a travel buddy to explore with!