Recently, I embarked on a journey to Xiamen with my sister, and it was quite an adventure. Girls, as we often do, spent hours poring over various travel guides and strategies, but upon arrival, we realized that there was still a significant gap between the online hype and the real-life experience. Therefore, I have promptly compiled this practical travel guide to Xiamen, drawing from my personal experiences, in the hope that it will assist you in your own explorations.
Getting to Xiamen:
- Airport: Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (within the island)
- High-speed Rail Station: Xiamen Station (within the island)
- Another High-speed Rail Station: Xiamen North Station (outside the island)
- Public Buses: Use the code-based ticketing system (ensure you have your ticketing code ready)
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival at Xiamen North Station → Zhongshan Road → Shapowei → Bashi → Nanputuo Temple → Baicheng Beach → Yanwu Bridge
Day 2: Gulangyu Island → The Most Beautiful Corner → Underwater World → Longtou Road Snack Street → Piano Museum → Sunlight Rock
Day 3: Wanshi Botanical Garden → Jimei Academic Village → Zhonggu Ropeway → Huandao Road → Bashi → Return Home
Xiamen’s Culinary Highlights:
- Zuiyihao Seafood Restaurant, offering specialties such as Grilled Eel, Lemon Crab, Egg Yolk-fried Lobster, and Boiled Seafood Trio (located at Laosibei Road intersection)
- Jiangmuya Restaurant (Zhongshan Road Main Branch), renowned for its ginger duck and pan-fried crab
- Tangyan, specializing in traditional Xiamen home-style dishes, particularly its crispy taro and duck dish, a must-try on any Xiamen foodie’s list. With three branches, each attracts long queues, so it’s advisable to arrive early.
- Haoshi Lai Seafood Restaurant, famous for its oyster rice dish, frequented by locals and boasting a 30-year history. Other recommended dishes include Zhuji Hand-torn Chicken, Soup Dumplings, Oyster Omelet, Ajie Five-spice Rolls, Satay Noodles, and Roast Pork Zongzi.
Important Notes:
- Beware of elderly individuals offering glow-in-the-dark flowers on the beach; they may seem friendly, but they often charge for these “gifts.”
- Avoid unsolicited offers for cheap sailing experiences; they are often misleading.
- When inquiring about the Zhonggu Ropeway, ignore suggestions to visit later due to long queues; make your own informed decisions.
- Be cautious of locals offering unsolicited guidance; it’s often best to rely on official information and your own research.
- For transportation, it’s recommended to use ride-hailing services like Didi rather than taxis.
@Diouk7 has authorized the use of the accompanying images. Please do not misinterpret the information provided. #TravelGuide #TravelTips #Tourism #Xiamen #Zengcuoan #XiamenTravelGuide #XiamenItinerary #XiamenFoodAndDrink
