Discover Xiamen Like a Local: Gulangyu, Nanputuo Temple, and Coastal Wonders

Tour Itinerary

When you arrive in Xiamen, your private guide will be waiting at the agreed meeting point, holding a sign that reads “Your Way Holiday.” From the first greeting, you will notice the warmth and professionalism of the service. The guide will assist with your luggage and ensure a smooth start to the day before driving you comfortably to the first destination. At the end of the journey, you will be driven back to your arranged location. This seamless service allows you to focus on the experience, while we take care of every detail.

Your journey begins with a visit to Gulangyu, the small island that has been called the “garden on the sea.” Known for its colonial architecture and winding alleys, the island has no cars, making it a peaceful escape filled with charm. As you stroll along cobblestone lanes, your guide will share stories of how European consulates and merchants once left their mark here, turning the island into a blend of East and West. You can admire old villas, visit the famous Shuzhuang Garden, and take in panoramic views from Sunlight Rock. With the guide’s insight, you will learn to see beyond the scenery and understand the cultural significance of each building and street corner. This way, you do not just look, you truly experience Gulangyu like a local.

Next, you will visit Nanputuo Temple, one of Xiamen’s most revered Buddhist sites, nestled against Wulao Mountain. The temple complex is a harmonious blend of halls, pagodas, and serene courtyards. Here, your guide will explain the architectural layout, from the Hall of Heavenly Kings to the Mahavira Hall, and point out intricate carvings of dragons and lotus flowers that symbolize purity and power. You may see monks chanting and locals coming to burn incense, a living tradition that adds depth to the visit. The guide will help you understand Buddhist customs, and if you are interested, show you quiet spots for reflection or a chance to make a wish with incense sticks. Exploring with guidance transforms the temple into more than just a stop on a trip, it becomes a spiritual and cultural moment you can connect with.

The tour continues to Zeng Cuo An, once a simple fishing village and now one of Xiamen’s most vibrant creative communities. Narrow alleys are lined with cafés, boutique shops, and street food stalls offering everything from oyster omelets to bubble tea. Your guide will help you navigate the maze-like streets, pointing out hidden gems and explaining how local culture has been preserved while blending with modern artistic flair. You might sit in a small coffee shop filled with handmade crafts or taste snacks that locals recommend. With the guide’s tips, you will not just sample food, but also hear the stories of the vendors and artists who keep the neighborhood alive. This approach allows you to enjoy Zeng Cuo An not only as a tourist attraction, but as a lively, authentic community.

Finally, you will take a scenic drive along Huandao Road, the coastal highway known for its sweeping views of the South China Sea. Golden beaches, cycling paths, and rows of palm trees create the perfect backdrop for a relaxing ride. The guide will point out the best spots for photos and may recommend a short walk along the seaside trail to feel the breeze and take in the sound of waves. You can pause to watch surfers, visit small pavilions overlooking the ocean, or simply enjoy the fresh air. The combination of professional guiding and breathtaking scenery ensures this last stop leaves you with lasting memories. At the end of the day, your guide and driver will escort you back to the arranged location, making the journey smooth and worry free.