3-day 2-night in-depth tour of Gulangyu Island, Xiamen. Here's a simple and practical guide!

Gulangyu Island is the most historic and cultural island in Xiamen, and an indispensable part of the city. The island is full of international architecture, which contributes to its history and culture. The island is not large, with an area of only 1.88 square kilometers, so many people think that one day is enough to visit. If you just want to take a quick look, one day is indeed enough. However, if you want to fully experience the scenery and charm of the island, you need at least 2 days. Based on my experience, 3 days is even better. So, I will share a simple and practical 3-day 2-night Gulangyu Island guide with you, hoping it will be helpful. 1. Must-see attractions: I think the most worthwhile attractions on Gulangyu Island are Sunlight Rock, Longtou Road Pedestrian Street, Fujian Road, Neicuo'ao Road, Gangzaihou Beach, and Shuzhuang Garden. You can visit other attractions as you wish. 2. Itinerary: On the first day, enter the island from Neicuo'ao Wharf and visit Neicuo'ao Road and Huangu Road, enjoying the sea view of Xiamen Island along the way. On the second day, visit Fujian Road, Zhangzhou Road, Longtou Road, Shuzhuang Garden, Gangzaihou Beach, and Sunlight Rock. On the third day, take a leisurely walk along Gusheng Road and enjoy the sea view. 3. Food and accommodation: There are many homestays and inns on Gulangyu Island. During the off-season, the average room rate on the island is about RMB 200, which is very cost-effective. There are many restaurants with Minnan specialties in the streets and alleys, and the most concentrated area is Longtou Road. Restaurant prices vary, so you can compare prices before choosing, or bargain in advance. Generally speaking, the average daily cost of food and drink on Gulangyu Island is about RMB 180 per person. 4. Transportation: Take a cruise from Xiamen Dongdu Wharf to Neicuo'ao Wharf or Sanqiutian Wharf, and then walk to your destination. Now there are also battery-powered sightseeing cars on Gulangyu Island, which cost RMB 50 per person. After midnight, Gulangyu Piano Wharf is also open to the public, and tourists can take a ferry from Piano Wharf to Zhongshan Road Wharf. 5. Notes: The sea water on Gulangyu Island is not suitable for swimming, and the stones on the beach are slippery, so be careful when playing or taking photos. Gulangyu Island is quite dark at night, so it is not recommended for timid or nervous people to go out. In addition, pay attention to sun protection and skin care in summer. 6. Budget: Tickets are RMB 100, round-trip ferry tickets are RMB 35, hotel accommodation is RMB 200 x 2 = RMB 400, and food and drink is RMB 180 x 3 = RMB 540; the total is RMB 1,075.