5-Day Explore Gulangyu Island and Hakka Traditions: Xiamen Heritage Tour

Summary

Day1 Xiamen Arrival
Day2 Xiamen: Gulangyu Island
Day3 Xiamen-Nanjing County: Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster, Ta'xia Village
Day4 Yun Shui Yao Ancient Town
Day5 Xiamen Departure

Day1 Xiamen Arrival

Welcome to Xiamen! Upon your arrival, our warm and welcoming guide will be waiting for you at the designated meeting point, holding a "Your Way Holiday" sign to make it easy for you to find them. They will assist you with your private transfer to the hotel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey. Once you have checked in and settled in, you’ll have free time to venture out and explore the bustling Zhongshan Pedestrian Street. This lively area is perfect for wandering, as it offers a wide variety of local snacks to taste and vibrant shops to explore, giving you a true sense of the city’s energetic atmosphere. If you're someone who enjoys being by the water, you can also opt for a scenic cruise or a fishing trip to take in the stunning coastal views of Xiamen. These optional activities are available for an additional cost and typically last around three hours, providing you with a perfect way to experience the natural beauty of Xiamen's shoreline.

Day2 Xiamen

Today, you will spend the entire day discovering the charm and rich history of Gulangyu Island, one of Xiamen’s most cherished destinations and a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Famous for its peaceful ambiance, colonial-era architecture, and harmonious blend of Eastern and Western influences, Gulangyu is a pedestrian-only island that offers a unique escape from the modern world. Accompanied by our expert English-speaking guide, you will embark on a leisurely exploration of the island’s winding lanes, tree-lined boulevards, and stunning coastal vistas. Along the way, your guide will provide fascinating insights into the island's past, including its time as an international settlement and cultural melting pot, helping you gain a deeper understanding of its historical significance.

The first stop on your journey is the Shuzhuang Garden, a beautifully designed former private villa that has now been transformed into a public garden. Known for its exquisite representation of classical Chinese landscaping, the garden is an elegant blend of natural coastal beauty and traditional garden elements. As you wander along the winding paths, you’ll encounter picturesque pavilions, serene lotus ponds, and hidden rockeries that create a sense of discovery at every turn. The peaceful atmosphere is heightened by the gentle sound of waves in the distance, and the intricate details of the garden’s architecture reflect both the local style and the refined elegance of southern Fujian. Take your time to admire the meticulous design and the seamless integration of nature and art that make this garden truly special.

Afterward, you’ll head to the Piano Museum, located within the grounds of Shuzhuang Garden. This fascinating museum showcases a collection of over 70 antique pianos, many of which date back to the 18th century. These instruments once belonged to famous musicians, private collectors, and expatriate families who called Gulangyu Island home. As you stroll through the museum, you will encounter pianos of all shapes and sizes, each with its own unique design and history. Some of the instruments are rare and exquisitely crafted, offering a glimpse into the rich musical heritage of the island. Whether you’re a classical music enthusiast or simply intrigued by the beauty of musical instruments, the museum provides an enjoyable and educational experience that appeals to visitors of all ages.

Around midday, take a well-deserved break and enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the local restaurants on the island. Gulangyu is renowned for its wide variety of snacks and fresh seafood, so this is a great opportunity to sample some of the island’s authentic flavors. One dish you simply must try is the seafood noodles, a signature Xiamen specialty. This dish features hand-pulled noodles served in a savory broth with fresh shrimp, squid, and clams. It’s a perfect blend of rich flavors and fresh ingredients. Another local favorite is peanut soup, a unique dessert-like dish that combines boiled peanuts with a lightly sweetened base, creating a creamy and smooth texture that’s both comforting and satisfying. Your guide will be happy to recommend more dishes based on your personal preferences and will help you order like a local, ensuring that you enjoy an authentic culinary experience.

In the afternoon, you’ll have the chance to participate in a Nyonya makeup and costume session, offering a fun and immersive way to experience the island’s multicultural heritage. The Nyonya style, also known as Peranakan, is a fusion of Southern Chinese and Southeast Asian fashion. This style is characterized by the use of beautifully embroidered gauze, vibrant colors, and intricate accessories, which reflect the cultural blend of these two regions. During this session, you’ll be dressed in traditional Nyonya-style outfits, complete with elegant makeup and delicate accessories. It’s the perfect opportunity to capture stunning photos and truly engage with the island’s rich heritage in a playful and interactive way. This cultural experience offers you a deeper understanding of the island’s history and multicultural roots, while providing a memorable and enjoyable activity.

After a day of exploration and cultural experiences, you’ll board the ferry to return to the mainland. As you sail back, you’ll reflect on the beautiful memories you’ve made and the deeper appreciation you’ve gained for the tranquil beauty and rich history of Gulangyu Island. The experiences of the day will stay with you, leaving you with a lasting connection to this fascinating and culturally vibrant destination.

Day3 Xiamen-Nanjing County

This morning, after a leisurely breakfast, your private driver and guide will be ready to take you on a scenic drive to Nanjing County, located in the southwest of Fujian Province. Known for its rich history and breathtaking natural beauty, Nanjing County is home to the famous Tulou. These large, circular or rectangular earthen structures were built by the Hakka people. They were designed not only as homes but also as fortresses to protect their residents from external threats. Over the centuries, the Tulou have withstood the tests of time, enduring the elements while preserving their remarkable architectural features. As you journey through the rolling hills and lush countryside, you'll notice how these ancient structures blend seamlessly into the mountainous landscape, reflecting a sustainable way of life that has been passed down through generations. The landscape, dotted with these enduring buildings, offers a striking view of how humans and nature coexist in harmony.

Your first stop will be the iconic Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster, which is perhaps the most famous and visually captivating of all the Tulou sites. From a higher vantage point, this cluster appears as a beautiful and symmetrical arrangement, with four circular Tulou surrounding a square one in the center, resembling a “Four Dishes and One Soup” dish. Each of these buildings was designed to house multiple generations of a single family, with their thick, earth-filled walls providing both insulation from the elements and protection from potential invaders. As you explore the site, your guide will share fascinating insights into the symbolism, construction methods, and social functions of these extraordinary buildings. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet some of the local residents who still live in these Tulou, learning about their everyday life and hearing personal stories that give you a deeper connection to the history of the place.

After your morning tour, you’ll enjoy a satisfying lunch at a rustic, hilltop eatery tucked away in the countryside. Fujian’s rural cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and a delicate balance of flavors, making it a perfect way to continue your exploration of the region. A must-try dish is Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, a luxurious and aromatic soup that combines a variety of premium ingredients such as sea cucumber, abalone, scallops, and Shaoxing wine. Known for its rich layers of flavor and nourishing properties, this dish is a true delicacy. Another standout option is Eight Treasures Crab Rice, a hearty and comforting dish made with glutinous rice, crab meat, and a flavorful mix of savory toppings, including mushrooms, chestnuts, and sausage. This traditional Fujian dish offers a warm and satisfying taste of the region's home-style cooking, giving you a true sense of local flavors and culinary culture.

After lunch, you will continue your journey to Yuchang Building, one of the tallest and oldest Tulou still standing. This remarkable structure was built over 700 years ago during the Yuan Dynasty, making it an architectural marvel with a rich history. The building’s five stories are particularly fascinating because of its visible tilt. Despite this precarious lean, the Tulou remains remarkably solid and safe, showcasing the exceptional engineering skills of the Hakka people. As you enter the open-air atrium and begin to ascend the wooden staircases, you’ll get a chance to experience the traditional living spaces that have been home to generations of families. The smoke-darkened kitchens, ancestral halls, and stacked balconies provide a unique glimpse into the daily lives of those who have lived in this Tulou for centuries. This site offers a captivating look at how tradition and functionality seamlessly come together within these ancient walls, creating a space that is both practical and deeply rooted in cultural heritage.

In the afternoon, your next destination will be Ta’xia Village, often referred to as the "Taichi Village" due to its unique layout. A winding river flows through the village in the shape of a Yin-Yang symbol, with round Tulou buildings strategically placed along its curves. As you wander through this peaceful village, you will notice how the water, earth, and buildings seem to blend together in perfect harmony, reflecting the deep respect the locals have for Feng Shui principles. The carefully planned arrangement of nature and architecture creates a tranquil atmosphere, making this village not only visually stunning but also a place where the rhythms of rural life unfold at a gentle pace. This village is more than just a picturesque spot; it’s a living community where time seems to slow down, allowing you to experience the essence of traditional village life at its most serene.

After a full day of discovery, you will be driven back to your hotel. As you travel back, the awe-inspiring images of the ancient Tulou and the peaceful countryside will remain vivid in your mind, leaving you with a deep sense of appreciation for the enduring cultural legacy and tranquil beauty of this fascinating region.

Day4 Nanjing County

Continue your journey into the heart of Fujian’s cultural soul today with a deeper exploration of the region’s rich heritage. In the morning, you’ll head to Yun Shui Yao Ancient Town, a peaceful village that feels timeless, surrounded by lush, unspoiled countryside. As you arrive, you’ll immediately sense the calm, almost slow-motion pace of life here, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere. This riverside village, with its century-old banyan trees, clear bubbling streams, and ancient bridges, provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing start to your day. The narrow cobblestone lanes are lined with traditional tiled rooftops and well-preserved wooden homes, creating a picturesque scene that feels like something out of a painting. As you stroll through the village, you’ll likely encounter villagers weaving bamboo baskets, children playing near the water, and elders sipping tea under shaded eaves—quiet snapshots of a way of life that has remained unchanged for generations. Every corner of this village tells a story, and you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into another era.

Next, you’ll visit Hegui Lou, one of the tallest and most impressive Tulou structures in Nanjing County. This towering five-story building, with more than 200 rooms, stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Hakka people. Its size alone is enough to impress, but what’s truly remarkable is its ability to endure the passage of time. Built more than 300 years ago on soft marshland, this massive structure defies the odds with its sturdy foundations and earthquake-resistant design. Though the building leans slightly due to shifting ground beneath it, this only adds to its charm and historical significance. As you step inside, you’ll marvel at the innovative design of the building. The thick rammed earth walls, reinforced wooden beams, and natural ventilation that keeps the interior cool in summer and warm in winter are clear examples of how traditional craftsmanship met the needs of an entire community. Hegui Lou serves as a living example of the resilience and ingenuity of the people who built it.

Your next stop is Huaiyuan Lou, a stunning circular Tulou and one of the finest examples of its kind in Fujian. Built during the reign of Emperor Guangxu in the late Qing Dynasty, this two-ring structure showcases a flawless blend of functionality and aesthetics. The building’s symmetrical design represents balance and harmony, both important principles in Hakka culture. Inside, you’ll be captivated by the rich details that adorn the structure, including intricately carved wooden railings, ancestral tablets, and calligraphy plaques that reflect the cultural depth of the Hakka people. In contrast to the more rugged look of the older Tulou, Huaiyuan Lou is known for its refined elegance and meticulous preservation. Walking through its corridors feels like stepping back in time, as the generations of stories echo through the polished wooden beams and earth walls. This exquisite structure offers a glimpse into the architectural sophistication of the Hakka people, making it a highlight of your journey.

Around midday, take a well-deserved break and enjoy a traditional Hakka-style lunch at a local eatery nestled in the village. The flavors are simple yet incredibly satisfying, with each dish made from fresh ingredients sourced from the surrounding countryside. One dish that you should definitely try is stir-fried razor clams, which are expertly cooked with garlic and local herbs. The combination of the tender clams and aromatic herbs offers a fresh, briny taste that highlights the coastal influences of the region. Another local favorite is the oyster omelette, which features a crispy exterior and a tender interior, made with fresh oysters and a savory batter. This dish offers a deliciously unique twist on comfort food, and it perfectly captures the essence of rural Fujian cuisine. These signature dishes provide an authentic taste of the region, allowing you to truly appreciate the simplicity and depth of rural Fujian flavors.

In the afternoon, continue your exploration with a leisurely stroll along the Yunshuiyao Ancient Road, a scenic 10-kilometer pebble path that once served as part of an old trade route linking Longyan and Zhangzhou. As you walk along this path, you’ll be surrounded by towering banyan trees that provide ample shade, creating a peaceful and serene environment. The path is also flanked by charming brick-and-wood homes, some of which have stood the test of time, adding to the historical atmosphere of the area. This journey offers a chance to slow down, take in the beauty of the surroundings, and maybe even pause for a moment of reflection or a quick sketch if you’re artistically inclined. The gentle rhythm of village life, combined with the soothing sounds of nature, makes this walk a calming and peaceful finale to your Tulou visit, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil spirit of the region.

After soaking in the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the area, you’ll head back to Xiamen in the late afternoon. As you make your way back, you’ll carry with you a collection of stories, experiences, and memories from Fujian’s timeless countryside, a place where tradition, nature, and local culture intertwine in such a meaningful way.

Day5 Xiamen Departure

After a leisurely breakfast, your private driver will arrive to escort you comfortably to the airport. Enjoy the smooth and relaxed transfer as you sit back and reflect on the unforgettable memories you’ve created throughout your Tulou adventure. The journey will be effortless, allowing you to reminisce about the fascinating sites, rich culture, and stunning landscapes you’ve experienced. As you arrive at the airport with plenty of time before your flight, you'll be well-prepared for your onward journey. We wish you a safe and pleasant flight as you continue your travels, and we look forward to welcoming you again in the future. Until next time!

Price Per Person in US Dollars