Formerly known as Amoy, the island city of Xiamen is a charming city in China’s Fujian province. One of the first treaty ports in China, Xiamen’s natural beauty, pleasant weather, and laid-back vibe have long attracted Chinese visitors and earned it the nickname Garden of the Sea. It's rich in cultural and historical sites—including the colonial Gulangyu island, historic South Putuo Temple (Nanputuo Temple), and Hulishan Fortress—and has a vibrant dining, shopping, and up-and-coming arts scene. There is no shortage of things to do and see in Xiamen.
Although Xiamen offers mild weather year-round, the best times to visit are spring and fall, when the weather is generally dry, and the scenery is beautiful with spring flowers and fall colors. The rainy season runs from May to August, with typhoons likely in July and August. Avoid traveling over the week-long Chinese national holidays in May and October, as crowds will be challenging.
Xiamen has an extensive network of public buses, including bus rapid transit, sightseeing, and tourist bus lines. There is also a limited metro system, though more lines are planned and being built. There are plenty of taxis, though drivers generally do not speak English (use a rideshare app like Didi). There are also several ferries connecting Xiamen and Gulangyu island. Bicycles are a good way to get around.
Renting a bicycle is a great way to get around Xiamen and see its top attractions. The 27-mile (43-kilometer) Huandao Road or Island Ring Road hugs the southeastern coastline of Xiamen and passes by attractions such as Hulishan Fortress, Xiamen University Baicheng Beach, and Music Square. Xiamen is also home to the world’s longest bicycle bridge, the elevated Xiamen Bicycle Skyway, which stretches for 5 miles (8 kilometers) through the central part of the city.
