Gulangyu Island Xiamen: A Complete Travel Guide to China’s Most Romantic Car-Free Island

Gulangyu Island is a small island in Xiamen, Fujian Province, China, renowned for its unique history, culture, and natural landscapes. With no motor vehicles allowed, the island retains a peaceful atmosphere, where visitors can wander through winding alleys, admire ancient architecture, beautiful gardens, and enjoy stunning seaside views. Gulangyu is also known as the "Island of Music," boasting a rich musical heritage, particularly with its famous pianos and pipe organs. It's an ideal destination for a romantic and tranquil getaway. This article is a detailed travel guide to Gulangyu Island, providing you with all the essential information to fully experience this charming island.

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Location and Accessibility
Where Gulangyu Island is located: Xiamen, Fujian Province, China.

How to get to Gulangyu Island from Xiamen city center?
The journey from Xiamen city center to Gulangyu Island is typically via a ferry, and the ferry ride itself offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline, which adds to the overall experience.

Ferry Ticket Prices (Round-trip Included):
Adult Ticket: Starting from ¥35
Free Return Ticket: A free return ferry ticket to Gulangyu Island is included with the adult ticket, valid for one use within 20 days.

Discounts:Children's Ticket: Minors aged 6 to 14 years or those with a height between 1.2m and 1.5m can enjoy a 50% discount.

Ticket Purchase Documents:
Tickets can be purchased with valid identification such as passport, Hong Kong/Macau travel permit, or Taiwan residence permit. Tickets must be collected at the ticket window.

Ticket Booking:
You can book ferry tickets 10 days in advance via the official website or purchase tickets on-site at the ferry terminal on the same day.

Ferry Ticket Tips:
After purchasing, please arrive at the designated departure location 30 minutes to 1 hour in advance to avoid delays.
Tickets can be booked through the official Xiamen Ferry Company WeChat account or website: https://www.xmferry.com.
Be sure to keep your return ticket safe.

Visitor Ferry Routes to Gulangyu Island
Daytime Routes
Visitors heading to Gulangyu Island during the day can choose to board at one of the following terminals:
Dongdu Passenger Terminal (Main boarding terminal for tourists, with the most frequent sailings)
First Pier (One sailing per hour)
Songyu Passenger Terminal (Two sailings per hour)

Nighttime Routes
For nighttime travel, visitors should go to Xiamen Ferry Terminal, Hall 2 to board the ferry. During the day, this terminal is used by locals and only operates tourist routes at night.
October to May: First sailing at 17:50 - Last sailing at 23:45
June to September: First sailing at 18:50 - Last sailing at 23:45

Visitor Ferry Routes from Gulangyu
Sanqiutian Pier, Gulangyu Island: Operating hours: 06:15 - 24:00
Neicuoao Pier, Gulangyu Island: Operating hours: 07:20 - 18:00
Customer Service Phone: 0592-3372020 (08:00 - 20:30)

Pier Addresses
Dongdu Passenger Terminal: Located at No. 2 Donggang Road, Huli District, Xiamen, near Sea World. You can take Metro Line 2 to Cruise Center Station or take a bus to nearby Cruise Center Pier Station, Dongdu Station, or Dongdu Huweishan Station.

First Pier: Located at No. 599, Xidi Road, Siming District, Xiamen. It is about 500 meters from Zhongshan Road and near Bashi Market. You can take BRT lines 1, 2, 3, or 8 to BRT First Pier Station, where you can transfer to the ferry, or take a bus to First Pier Station.

Songyu Passenger Terminal: Located at No. 2188 Jiangang Road, Haicang District, Xiamen. If you are in Haicang, this terminal is the recommended departure point for ferries to Gulangyu.

Tips: There is a maritime bus route between First Pier and Songyu Passenger Terminal, with a one-way fare of ¥2. Tickets can be purchased at the pier. For round-trip travel between First Pier and Songyu Passenger Terminal, you can take this maritime bus.

Ferry Terminal: Located at No. 15 Lujiang Road, Siming District, Xiamen, opposite Zhongshan Road. You can take a bus to nearby Ferry Post Office Station, Ferry Station, or Ferry Bus Terminal. There is a free shuttle bus service between Dongdu Passenger Terminal and Ferry Terminal during the day for tourists.

Sanqiutian Pier, Gulangyu: Located at No. 199 Yanping Road, Siming District, Xiamen, on the east side of Gulangyu, near Bagua Building, Most Beautiful Corner, and Longtou Road, a commercial area.

Neicuoao Pier, Gulangyu: Located at No. 159 Kangtai Road, Siming District, Xiamen, on the west side of Gulangyu, near Meihua Beach, Gulang Stone, and Hero Mountain, with more natural scenery.

Gulangyu Piano Pier: Located at No. 6-2, Lujiao Road, Siming District, Xiamen.

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Recommended Piers
Sanqiutian Pier and Neicuoao Pier are located on opposite sides of Gulangyu Island. If you want to experience the island's popular attractions, you can head to Sanqiutian Pier. For a more authentic and tranquil experience, Neicuoao Pier is the better choice.

What transportation is available on Gulangyu Island in Xiamen?
Motor vehicles are prohibited on Gulangyu Island (except for emergency services). The only mode of transport on the island is the sightseeing electric cart. However, since many attractions are not accessible by the sightseeing carts and the island's small alleys are best explored on foot, walking remains the main way to get around.

Full Route for Sightseeing Electric Cart: Sanqiutian Pier -- Yanwei Mountain Eco-Park (via) -- Neicuoao Pier -- Gulang Villa (via) -- Shuzhuang Garden (transfer station) -- Sanqiutian Pier

Ticket Prices:
Full Route Ticket: ¥50/person
One-way Tickets: ¥10-¥40/person, depending on the route.
Sanqiutian Pier to Yanwei Mountain Eco-Park: ¥10/person
Sanqiutian Pier to Neicuoao Pier: ¥20/person
Sanqiutian Pier to Gulang Villa: ¥30/person
Sanqiutian Pier to Shuzhuang Garden: ¥40/person
Operating Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Tips:
Tickets purchased are valid only during the day of operation.
The tickets are priced per segment, and unlimited boarding and alighting are not allowed.

History and Cultural Significance of Gulangyu Island
Historical Background
Early History and Development
Gulangyu Island was originally a fishing village, but its transformation began in the late 19th century when it became a foreign concession in 1903. Foreign powers like the British, French, and Japanese set up consulates, and the island became a melting pot of cultures and architectural styles.

Colonial Influence on Architecture and Culture
Western powers left a lasting mark on the island's architecture, introducing Victorian, Gothic, Baroque, and neoclassical styles. These buildings, along with new customs and education systems, shaped the local culture, giving Gulangyu a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences.

UNESCO World Heritage Recognition
In 2017, Gulangyu was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical significance and well-preserved colonial architecture. The island stands as a symbol of China’s international influence during the colonial era.

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Cultural Heritage
Architectural Blend of Eastern and Western Styles
Gulangyu is famous for its International Architecture Style, where Western buildings are mixed with traditional Chinese elements. The island boasts over 30 architectural styles, ranging from Baroque to Art Deco, reflecting its cultural exchange.

Role in the Development of Modern Music in China
Known as the "Island of Music", Gulangyu played a major role in the development of modern Chinese music, especially in piano music and education. The Gulangyu Piano School helped shape China’s music education, and the Gulangyu Piano Museum houses a collection of antique pianos, showcasing the island’s musical legacy.

Major Attractions on Gulangyu Island
Sunlight Rock (Riguangyan)
Sunlight Rock, also known as Longtou Mountain, is the highest peak on Gulangyu Island. At the top, a massive rock with a diameter of over 40 meters stands proudly, offering a natural landmark for Xiamen. From the summit, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of both Xiamen and Gulangyu. Historically, during the Ming Dynasty, national hero Zheng Chenggong stationed his troops here when reclaiming Taiwan, and remnants of ancient sites like the Water Training Platform and the Dragon Head Mountain Gate still remain. The mountain is also dotted with numerous cliff inscriptions from various dynasties. The Sunlight Rock Temple, established in the Ming Dynasty, attracts many devotees and is famous for being the meditation retreat of Master Hongyi, who spent eight months here copying scriptures. The Qin Garden features several attractions, including the Hero’s Garden and the Yin Chengzong Music Life Exhibition. As the saying goes, "If you haven’t climbed Sunlight Rock, you haven’t truly been to Xiamen."

Shuzhuang Garden
Address: No. 6-7 Gulangyu Island, Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China
Shuzhuang Garden known for its elegant landscaping and unique architecture, the garden blends traditional Chinese garden design with Western influences. It features beautiful pavilions, winding paths, lotus ponds, and stunning sea views. The garden is also home to the renowned Piano Museum, which showcases a collection of historical pianos, making it a perfect destination for nature, history, and culture enthusiasts.

Haoyue Garden
Address: No. 10-11 Gulangyu Island, Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China
Haoyue Garden, located on Gulangyu Island, is a scenic and historical park offering a serene escape with stunning views of the sea. The garden is known for its lush greenery, traditional Chinese landscaping, and peaceful atmosphere. It features a variety of cultural relics, including statues and sculptures, along with well-maintained pathways that wind through beautiful gardens. The garden also provides an excellent spot to enjoy the sunset, making it a perfect place for relaxation and cultural exploration.

Yuyuan Garden
Address: Fuxing Road, Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian Province
Yuyuan Garden is located on the southeast side of Gulangyu Island, Fuxing Road, Siming District, Xiamen, covering an area of 5,700 square meters. It was established in May 1984 to commemorate Dr. Lin Qiaozhi, a pioneer in modern obstetrics and gynecology, and is open to the public free of charge year-round. The name "Yuyuan" symbolizes nurturing and cultivation. The main attractions in the garden include a marble statue of Dr. Lin Qiaozhi (on the right side of the granite plaza) and a 140-square-meter exhibition hall displaying her personal belongings, books, photos, and award certificates. Two tropical fir trees planted by Deng Yingchao in 1984 are also located in the garden, surrounded by plants like chrysanthemums, milan, and hibiscus.

Gulangyu Piano Museum
Address: No. 7 Gangzaihou Road, Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian Province, inside Shuzhuang Garden
The Gulangyu Piano Museum, completed in January 2000, is located in the "Tingtao Pavilion" within the Shuzhuang Garden on Gulangyu Island in Xiamen. Covering an area of 450 square meters, the museum spans two floors with two exhibition halls. It houses over 40 antique pianos collected by the patriotic overseas Chinese, Hu Youyi. Among the exhibits are rare and valuable gilded pianos, the world's earliest square piano, the largest upright piano from the early years, ancient hand-cranked pianos, as well as foot-operated automatic pianos from a century ago and eight-foot pianos, showcasing the rich history and evolution of piano craftsmanship.

Zheng Chenggong Memorial Museum
Address: 73 Yongchun Road, Gulangyu, Siming District (Xilin Villa)
Established in 1962, it commemorates the 300th anniversary of Zheng Chenggong’s recapture of Taiwan from Dutch invaders. A national hero during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, Zheng is honored as the "Saint King of Taiwan" by its people. The museum is the largest collection and research center for Zheng’s relics and documents, displaying over 300 items, including artifacts, photos, sculptures, and models. It vividly showcases Zheng’s life and his heroic fight for national independence, sovereignty, and the dignity of the Chinese people, with multimedia presentations bringing his story to life.

Haitang Tangkou
Address: 38 Fujian Road, Gulangyu, Xiamen
Built in 1921, Haitang Tangkou was listed as a key historical building by the Xiamen municipal government in April 2002. After restoration, the old villa has become a perfect example of the fusion of Chinese and Western cultures. Now functioning as a bookstore with a Southeast Asian flair, an intangible cultural heritage performance center, and an architectural art museum, it showcases unique historical charm and artistic appeal.

Dining and Local Cuisine
Gulangyu Island is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds, offering a unique blend of Fujianese cuisine influenced by centuries of international trade and cultural exchange. Due to its historical role as a trading hub, Gulangyu’s food scene reflects the fusion of local flavors with influences from Southeast Asia, Europe, and beyond. This fusion is especially evident in the island's diverse culinary offerings, where fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional Fujian dishes come together to create unforgettable meals.

Popular Dishes to Try:

Peanut Soup
This iconic Fujianese snack is a must-try when visiting Gulangyu. The smooth, slightly sweet peanut soup is often served warm and is made from simmered peanuts with sugar, creating a creamy, comforting dish that reflects the island’s humble yet rich culinary traditions.

Oyster Omelet
A beloved street food found throughout Fujian, the oyster omelet is a must-try when in Gulangyu. Fresh oysters are combined with a savory batter and fried into a crispy, golden omelet. Served with a tangy sauce, it offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy any seafood lover.

Taro Buns
Taro, a staple ingredient in Fujian cuisine, is used in many dishes, and the taro buns are a favorite snack. These soft, fluffy buns are filled with a sweet taro paste, making them the perfect treat to enjoy while strolling around the island’s charming streets. The delicate sweetness and chewy texture make them a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

Fish Balls
A hallmark of Fujian cuisine, fish balls are made from finely minced fish mixed with starch and seasonings, then formed into round balls and boiled in a savory broth. Gulangyu’s fish balls are particularly famous for their delicate texture and light flavor, often served with a dipping sauce or in a rich, flavorful soup.

Lychee Meat
This sweet and savory dish is a local favorite in Gulangyu. It features tender pieces of pork, often marinated and cooked with a blend of sauces that bring out a slightly tangy sweetness, resembling the taste of lychee fruit. The dish is typically served with a side of vegetables or rice and is loved for its unique balance of flavors.

Spring Rolls
These crispy, golden rolls are stuffed with a variety of fillings such as vegetables, meat, or seafood. Often served with a dipping sauce, they’re a crunchy and satisfying appetizer or snack in Gulangyu, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Gulangyu’s Fresh Seafood
Thanks to its location by the sea, Gulangyu is renowned for its fresh, delicious seafood. From tender fish to sweet shrimp and plump scallops, the island’s seafood is some of the best in the region. Be sure to visit one of the many seafood restaurants or street vendors to enjoy a variety of fresh catches, often prepared with light seasoning to highlight the natural flavors.

Café Culture
Gulangyu Island has a deep connection with coffee, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when a large number of overseas Chinese, particularly from Southeast Asia and Europe, returned to China and brought Western coffee culture with them. Gulangyu became a melting pot of Chinese and Western influences, with coffee shops serving as places for overseas Chinese and foreigners to socialize and exchange ideas. Over time, coffee culture took root on the island, becoming one of its unique cultural symbols. The coffeehouses of Gulangyu not only carry the cultural memories of the overseas Chinese but also witness the island's diverse historical development. Today, they continue to attract visitors from all over the world to experience this blend of history and culture.

Recommended cafés with views and atmosphere for a romantic getaway.

Monet Garden Café
Address: 1st Floor, No. 96 Fuxing Road, Gulangyu Scenic Area
Operating Hours: 08:00 - 23:30
Average Spending: ¥38

Sea Symphony Café & Restaurant
Address: 1st Floor, No. 2 Gusheng Road, Gulangyu Scenic Area, Qinhai Manor
Operating Hours: 10:00 - 20:00
Average Spending: ¥52

1/2 Half Coffee (Gulangyu Seaview Store)
Address: No. 3-4 Zhangzhou Road, Gulangyu Scenic Area (Da De Ji Beach)
Operating Hours: 09:00 - 21:00
Average Spending: ¥51

Miss Zhao's Store
Address: No. 115 Longtou Road, Gulangyu Scenic Area (next to Gulangyu Concert Hall)
Operating Hours: 09:30 - 21:00
Average Spending: ¥43

Shopping and Souvenirs
Gulangyu Island not only boasts stunning and charming landscapes but also gathers many interesting little shops, such as those selling Xiamen meat pies, Huang Shengji’s pork floss, and dried meats. Many of these make perfect souvenirs to bring home for friends. There are also many unique, original, and vintage items hidden in various small shops, waiting to be discovered.

For shopping, head to Longtou Road on Gulangyu, where you’ll find numerous small stores offering local specialties, such as handicrafts, paintings, embroidered jewelry, lacquerware, colorful paper art, clay sculptures, and porcelain.

Known as the "Island of Pianos," Gulangyu is famous for its musical heritage. Besides memories, the best souvenirs from the island are the unique items sold exclusively at the Piano Museum, such as penholders, keychains, ink boxes, and pen box sets made from high-quality black rosewood. These items feature intricate craftsmanship and are engraved with various types of pianos from the museum’s collection.

Additionally, you can also visit the Gulangyu Post Office to purchase commemorative stamps or first-day covers, which are meaningful souvenirs to remember your time on the island.

Best Time to Visit Gulangyu Island
Weather Overview
Subtropical Climate: Gulangyu Island has a mild subtropical climate with relatively warm temperatures year-round, making it suitable for travel in most seasons.

Best Months to Visit
The ideal time to visit is March to May (spring) and October to November (autumn). During these months, the weather is comfortable, humidity is lower, and temperatures are perfect for walking and sightseeing.

Summer Season (June to September)
Summers are hot and humid, with higher temperatures and occasional typhoons. June to August also marks the rainy season, so visitors should expect more rainfall and plan accordingly.

Winter Season (December to February)
Winters are mild and relatively dry, with fewer crowds. While it rarely gets cold, temperatures can feel cooler due to sea breezes, so light jackets are recommended.

Avoiding Peak Rainy Periods
If possible, avoid visiting during late June to early August, when heavy rains and storms may disrupt ferry schedules and outdoor activities.

Festivals and Events
Gulangyu International Music Festival
One of the island’s most notable events, usually held annually, featuring classical music concerts, piano performances, and international artists. It reflects Gulangyu’s reputation as the “Island of Music.”

Regular Piano and Organ Concerts
Throughout the year, small-scale music performances are held at the Piano Museum and Organ Museum, offering visitors a unique cultural experience.

Traditional Chinese Festivals
During festivals such as Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Dragon Boat Festival, the island features festive decorations and cultural activities, creating a lively atmosphere.

Public Holidays and Peak Travel Times
Chinese public holidays, especially Labor Day (May) and National Day Golden Week (October), bring large crowds. Visitors should book ferries and accommodations in advance during these periods.

Accommodation on Gulangyu Island
Transportation from Xiamen to Gulangyu Island is very convenient, with a boat ride that takes approximately 7 minutes to reach the island. Most travelers staying on Gulangyu choose to stay in charming guesthouses, though there are also some high-end hotels available. Overall, Gulangyu is more suited to young, artistic, and bohemian travelers. However, accommodations on the island are generally more expensive, so it's advisable to book in advance, especially during holidays. If you don’t stay on the island itself, you can also opt to stay in a hotel in Xiamen, close to the ferry terminal.

Seaview Hotels
Yuhai Linhai Seaview Villa Hotel (Gulangyu Sanchutian Wharf Store)
This villa hotel was built in the 1920s and was originally the famous "Seaside Hostel". On September 28, 1945, it witnessed the Japanese surrender ceremony hosted by the Chinese Navy, becoming an important historical witness to China's victory in the Anti-Japanese War. After a century of change, Yuhai Linhai Villa Hotel now shines anew, becoming a beautiful landscape on Gulangyu Island. The hotel is located along the coast of Gulangyu and boasts a direct ocean view, offering guests a chance to experience the magnificence and beauty of the sea. The exterior of the villa retains the original architectural features, providing a clean, honest, and simple sensory experience, as if stepping back into the legendary past.
Address: No. 2, Lu Jiao Road, Gulangyu Street, Siming District, Xiamen
Price: From ¥450
Phone: +86-18144161887
Facilities: Sunbathing area, tea room, bar, coffee room, library, restaurant, meeting room, business center, childcare services, travel ticket services, luggage storage, Wi-Fi in public areas, etc.

Yuhai Egret Garden Hotel (Gulangyu Sanchutian Wharf Store)
Address: No. 55, Sanming Road, Gulangyu, Siming District, Xiamen
Price: From ¥355
Phone: +86 198 0592 9272
Facilities: Sunbathing area, luggage storage, library, tea room, chess room (chargeable), restaurant, coffee room, taxi service, meeting room, business center, baby room, wake-up service, laundry room, Wi-Fi in public areas

Yuhai Guan Hai Garden Seaview Hotel (Gulangyu Sanchutian Wharf Store)
Address: No. 201, Yanping Road, Siming District, Xiamen
Price: From ¥422
Phone: +86 132 9111 6642
Facilities: Luggage storage, library, tea room, chess room, restaurant, coffee room, meeting room, business center, multifunctional room, childcare services, stroller, wake-up service, Wi-Fi in public areas, laundry room

Linggan Linghai 1919 Seaview Villa Hotel (Gulangyu Sunlight Rock Store)
Address: No. 70, Huangyan Road, Siming District, Xiamen
Price: From ¥612
Phone: +86 133 8592 2505
Facilities: Sunbathing area, tea room, chess room, restaurant, coffee room, meeting room, multifunctional room, business center, travel ticket services, Wi-Fi in public areas, luggage storage, laundry room

Naodao Seaview Trendy Hostel (Xiamen Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street Ferry Terminal Store)
Address: 7/F, Haibin Building, No. 52, Lujing Road, Siming District, Xiamen
Price: From ¥310
Phone: +86 185 0695 8899
Facilities: Executive lounge, public parking, flexible pick-up service, luggage storage, bar, library, tea room, chess room, restaurant, coffee room, flexible drop-off service, taxi service, car rental, bike rental, station pick-up service, currency exchange, meeting room, business center, children's playground, childcare services, wake-up service, Wi-Fi in public areas, laundry room

Design and Art-Themed Hotels
Linggan Anmo Courtyard Design Hotel (Gulangyu Sanchutian Wharf Store)
Address: No. 8, Anhai Road, Siming District, Xiamen
Price: From ¥375
Phone: +86-13328759083
Facilities: Executive lounge, fitness room, bar, library, tea room, chess room, restaurant, coffee room, meeting room, multifunctional room, business center, childcare services, travel ticket services, Wi-Fi in public areas, luggage storage, laundry room

Linggan Anyu 1920 Wabi-Sabi Aesthetic Hotel (Gulangyu Sanchutian Wharf Store)
Address: No. 50, Anhai Road, Siming District, Xiamen
Price: From ¥510
Phone: +86-15359310986
Facilities: Executive lounge, fitness room, bar, library, tea room, chess room, restaurant, coffee room, meeting room, multifunctional room, business center, childcare services, Wi-Fi in public areas, luggage storage, laundry room

Linggan Mofan 19th Century German Castle Hotel (Gulangyu Longtou Road Snack Street Store)
Address: No. 88, Fuxing Road, Gulangyu, Siming District, Xiamen
Price: From ¥405
Phone: +86-18150897281
Facilities: Fitness room, luggage storage, tea room, 2 restaurants, coffee room, business services, multifunctional room, children's swimming pool, children's playground, kids' club, childcare services, stroller, wake-up service, Wi-Fi in public areas, laundry room

Traditional and Cultural Theme Hotels
Amoy Lanqin | Ancient Courtyard Elegance (Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street Zhenhai Road Metro Station Store)
Address: No. 25, Dazi Liquor Alley, Siming District, Xiamen
Price: From ¥515
Phone: +86-19906056944
Facilities: Hiking, public parking, luggage storage, library, tea room, taxi service, meeting room, business services, multifunctional room, wake-up service, Wi-Fi in public areas, laundry room

Budget Hotels
Gulangyu Yiju Hotel (Bagua Tower Sanchutian Wharf Store)
Address: No. 31, Guxin Road, Siming District, Xiamen
Price: From ¥300
Phone: +86-19906008608
Facilities: Luggage storage, tea room, chess room, restaurant, coffee room, meeting room, business services, multifunctional room, stroller, wake-up service, Wi-Fi in public areas, laundry room

Gulangyu Muxiang Huahai Seaview Villa (Sanchutian Wharf Store)
Address: No. 65, Guxin Road, Gulangyu Street, Siming District, Xiamen
Price: From ¥245
Phone: +86-15711561689
Facilities: Luggage storage, library, tea room, restaurant, coffee room, taxi service, meeting room

Gulangyu Shuxiang Manor Homestay
Address: No. 37, Anhai Road, Siming District, Xiamen
Price: From ¥125
Phone: +86-18959218076
Facilities: Luggage storage, library, chess room, wake-up service, Wi-Fi in public areas

Modern and High-End Hotels
Gulangyu Lijia Zhuang Hotel
Address: No. 38, Zhangzhou Road, Siming District, Xiamen
Price: From ¥1200
Phone: +86-592-2565006 / +86-18950155664
Facilities: Hiking, library, tea room, chess room, restaurant, coffee room, taxi service, multifunctional room, business services, travel ticket services, Wi-Fi in public areas, luggage storage, laundry room

Tips for Visiting Gulangyu Island
What to Bring
Comfortable Walking Shoes: Gulangyu Island is known for its hilly terrain and narrow streets, so it’s essential to wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Although the island’s climate is mild, the sun can still be strong, especially in the warmer months. Be sure to pack sunscreen to protect your skin.
Camera: The scenic views, unique architecture, and cultural sites are perfect for photography. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture your memories.
Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially if you plan to explore the island's attractions on foot for extended periods.
Light Jacket or Sweater: Even in the warmer months, the evenings can get a bit cooler due to the sea breeze, so it's a good idea to carry a light jacket or sweater.

Recommended Duration of Stay
Day Trip: Gulangyu Island is ideal for a day trip if you’re short on time. Most visitors can comfortably explore its major attractions, including Sunlight Rock, Shuzhuang Garden, and the museums, in about 6 to 8 hours.
Weekend Getaway: If you’re looking for a more leisurely experience, staying 2 days allows for a deeper exploration of the island, including more cultural activities, dining, and relaxation at one of its quiet beaches or gardens.