Xiamen Travel: 100 Questions Answered

Is Xiamen expensive? It is a Tier-2 city, so it’s cheaper than Shanghai or Beijing, but slightly pricier than inland Fujian due to its popularity as a resort.

What is the local language? Mandarin is universal, but the local dialect is Hokkien (Amoy).

Do people speak English? English is not widely spoken outside of major hotels, but younger people in artsy areas like Shapowei may know some.

Is it safe for solo travelers? Extremely safe. Like most Chinese cities, violent crime is very rare.

What is the 144-hour visa-free transit? If you are transiting to a third country, many nationalities can stay in Xiamen for up to 6 days without a visa.

Does Xiamen have a “vibe”? Redditors often compare it to a mix of Mediterranean coastal towns and Southeast Asian cities.

Is Xiamen smoky/polluted? It has some of the best air quality in China because it is a coastal island with sea breezes.

Transport & Getting Around

How do I get from the airport to the city? The airport is on the island, so a taxi/Didi to the center (Siming district) takes only 20–30 minutes.

Can I use the Metro? Yes, Xiamen has a clean, efficient subway system. Line 1 is particularly famous for its scenic sea-view section.

Is there a BRT? Yes, the Bus Rapid Transit (elevated bus lanes) is a fast way to cross the city and avoid traffic.

How do I pay for the bus? You can use a 1 RMB coin or scan a QR code via Alipay/WeChat.

Is Didi (Uber equivalent) available? Yes, and it’s very affordable. You can use the Didi mini-program inside Alipay.

Can I rent a bike? Yes, cycling along the Huandao (Island Ring) Road is a top-rated activity.

Are there cars on Gulangyu? No, Gulangyu is a pedestrian-only island. Only electric buggies for seniors/luggage are allowed.

Can I take a ferry to Kinmen (Taiwan)? Yes, there is a regular ferry, but check your visa requirements for both Taiwan and your re-entry to China.

How do I book ferry tickets for Gulangyu? Foreigners must use the Xiamen International Cruise Center (Dongdu) during the day. Book via the “Xiamen Ferry” WeChat mini-program.

Is walking viable? The Siming district is very walkable, especially near the University and Nanputuo Temple.

Gulangyu Island

What is Gulangyu famous for? Its colonial architecture, UNESCO status, and history as a piano-loving community.

Is it a tourist trap? It can feel like one on the main commercial streets, but if you wander into the back alleys, it’s quiet and beautiful.

Should I stay overnight on Gulangyu? Most suggest a day trip, but staying overnight allows you to enjoy the island after the day-tourists leave.

How much is the ferry? Approximately 35 RMB for a round trip for tourists.

Is Sunlight Rock worth the climb? Yes, for the best 360-degree view of Xiamen and the island.

What is the Piano Museum? A unique collection of over 100 historic pianos from around the world.

Can I swim on Gulangyu? There are beaches, but the water quality is better for wading than serious swimming.

Are there many stairs? Yes, the island is hilly. Wear comfortable shoes.

How long does the ferry take? About 20 minutes.

Is Gulangyu crowded? Very. Avoid weekends and Chinese public holidays if possible.

Attractions & Sightseeing

What is Nanputuo Temple? A famous Buddhist temple at the foot of Wulao Mountain, known for its vegetarian food and mountain views.

Is Xiamen University open to tourists? Usually yes, but you often need to register in advance via their official WeChat account.

What is the “Twin Towers”? These are the Shimao Straits Tower, the most recognizable landmark on the skyline.

What is Shapowei? An old fishing port turned into a “hipster” art zone with cafes and galleries.

What is the Island Ring Road? A 43km scenic coastal road perfect for cycling or marathon running.

Is the Botanical Garden worth it? Yes, especially the “Rainforest” and “Cactus” sections.

What is Hulishan Fortress? A 19th-century fort with a massive German Krupp cannon.

What is the Eighth Market (Bashi)? The city’s biggest seafood market—great for photography and seeing local life.

Where is the best nightlife? Haiwan Park has many bars with outdoor seating and sea views.

Is Jimei School Village worth the trek? Yes, for the unique “Tan Kah Kee” architecture (Chinese roofs on Western buildings).

Food & Drink

What is the must-try dish? Satay Noodles (Shacha Mian).

What are Satay Noodles? A spicy, nutty soup base with your choice of seafood, meat, and tofu.

Is the seafood fresh? Very. You can pick live fish/shellfish from tanks in most local restaurants.

What is Ginger Duck? A local specialty where duck is slow-cooked with ginger in a clay pot.

What is Oyster Omelette? A chewy, savory omelette made with small local oysters and sweet potato starch.

Is there good street food? Yes, Zhongshan Road and Zeng Cuo An are the primary hubs.

What is Peanut Soup? A sweet, creamy dessert soup with soft-boiled peanuts.

Can I drink the tap water? No, stick to bottled or boiled water.

Are there craft beer bars? Yes, Shapowei has several popular local breweries.

What is a “Sea Worm Jelly”? (Tu Gong Dong) A local delicacy made from sand worms; it’s an acquired taste but popular.

Accommodation

Where is the best area to stay? Near Zhongshan Road or the Ferry Terminal for convenience.

Are there international hotels? Yes, many (Conrad, Waldorf Astoria, Swissôtel, etc.).

What is the Conrad known for? It’s located in the Twin Towers and offers incredible views.

Are hostels available? Yes, especially in the Zeng Cuo An area.

Is it better to stay on the island or mainland? Stay on Xiamen Island (Siming/Huli districts). The mainland (Jimei/Haicang) is mostly residential/industrial.

Are boutique hotels common? Gulangyu has many beautiful converted colonial mansions.

Is Wi-Fi good in hotels? Generally yes, but you still need a VPN for Google/Facebook/etc.

Do hotels accept foreigners? Most do, but always check “Foreigners Accepted” on booking sites.

Is it noisy? If staying near Zhongshan Road, expect bustling street noise until late.

Is air conditioning standard? Yes, absolutely necessary given the climate.

Practical Tips & Tech

Do I need cash? Not really. Alipay and WeChat Pay are used everywhere.

Can I use my foreign credit card? You can link it to Alipay or WeChat Pay. Direct card use is rare.

What map app should I use? Apple Maps works well; otherwise, Baidu or Amap (if you can navigate Chinese).

Which translation app is best? Google Translate (with offline pack) or DeepL.

Do I need a VPN? Yes, if you want to access Western social media or Google.

What is the weather like in winter? Mild, around 10–15°C, but can feel chilly due to the humidity.

How do I get a SIM card? Best to get one at the airport or a major China Unicom/Mobile branch.

Is tipping expected? No, tipping is not a custom in China.

Are public toilets clean? Hit or miss. Better malls and hotels are great; parks may be more “traditional.”

Should I carry tissues? Yes, many public toilets do not provide paper.

Day Trips & Beyond

How do I visit the Tulou? You can take a 2.5-hour bus or hire a private driver.

Which Tulou cluster is best? Tianluokeng (the “Four Dishes and a Soup”) is the most iconic.

Is Quanzhou worth a visit? Yes, it’s only 20 minutes away by high-speed train and has incredible history.

Can I do a day trip to Wuyi Mountain? It’s possible by high-speed train (3 hours), but an overnight stay is better.

What is Riyuegu Hot Springs? A famous luxury hot spring resort about 45 minutes from the city center.

Is there a bridge to Kinmen? No, only the ferry.

What is the Haicang Bridge? A massive suspension bridge you’ll likely cross if heading to the hot springs.

Are there any “hidden” islands? Dadeng Island is less touristy and has military history related to the Taiwan Strait.

Can I see Taiwan from Xiamen? On a clear day, you can see the Kinmen islands from the south coast.

What is the Xiamen-Shenzhen High-Speed Rail? A fast way to reach Guangdong province (approx. 3.5 hours).

Shopping & Culture

Where should I shop for souvenirs? Zhongshan Road.

What should I buy? Dried seafood, Tieguanyin tea, and lacquerware.

Is bargaining common? Yes, in markets and small stalls, but not in malls.

What is the local tea culture? Xiamen is the heart of the “Gongfu Tea” ceremony.

Is there a good museum? The Overseas Chinese Museum is highly recommended.

Are there movie theaters? Yes, many malls have IMAX theaters.

What is the Nanyin music? A traditional, slow-paced form of music you can sometimes hear in temples or old tea houses.

Is Xiamen “modern”? Very. The CBD area has impressive skyscrapers and light shows.

Are there 24-hour spots? There are several 24-hour bookstores that are very popular.

Is there a zoo? There is a small zoo in Zhongshan Park and a larger one further out.

Common Concerns & Misc.

Is the food spicy? Generally no. Fujian cuisine (Min) is mild, savory, and slightly sweet.

How is the coffee scene? Excellent. Xiamen has one of the highest densities of independent cafes in China.

Is it child-friendly? Yes, the beaches and parks make it great for families.

What should I wear? Light, breathable clothing. A light jacket for evenings in winter/spring.

Are there mosquitos? Yes, especially in the Botanical Garden. Bring repellent.

Can I take the train to Hong Kong? Yes, there is a direct high-speed train (about 4 hours).

Is the city loud? Compared to other Chinese cities, it’s relatively quiet, though scooters are everywhere.

What is the “Egrets Island” nickname about? Egrets are the city bird and can be seen in the parks.

Is the light show worth seeing? Yes, the buildings along the coast light up at night in a synchronized display.

What is the one thing I shouldn’t miss? Watching the sunset from the Island Ring Road.

General & Planning