An attractive city with a bustling nautical atmosphere, Xiamen was known as Amoy in the 19th century. A relatively new settlement by Chinese standards, it was founded in the 14th century and became a significant port during the Ming Dynasty. The city was declared one of China’s first Special Economic Zones in the 1980s.

Nan Putuo Si

This busy temple was founded in the Tang era in the extravagant southern style. Its three halls hold a wealth of Buddhist statuary. The Heavenly King Hall has an image of Wei Tuo, Protector of Buddhist Doctrine, who holds a stick pointing down to signify that the temple offers lodging to pilgrims.

Wanshi Botanical Garden

This large scenic area houses over 4,000 species of plants, especially from South China and Southeast Asia. These include eucalyptus, bamboo, and a redwood tree planted by the former US President Richard Nixon.

Huli Shan Paotai

Situated in the Huli Shan Fort along the coast, this huge cannon was made for the Qing government by a German manufacturer in 1891. Almost 14 m long and weighing 50,000 kg, it had a firing range of 10 km. Taiwan’s islands are visible from the ramparts - a fascination for locals, who were forbidden entry to the site until 1984.

Gulang Yu

The tranquil island of Gulang Yu lies only a ten-minute boat ride from Xiamen, with attractive buildings, and no traffic apart from battery powered buggies. Gulang Yu is very pleasant to explore on foot, with its tiny streets and elegant houses, fronted by pretty flower gardens. Close to the ferry terminal is Xiamen Seaworld, which houses an interesting collection of sharks, seals, dolphins, penguins, and tropical fish. Farther south along the coast is Shuzhuang Garden, filled with numerous tropical plants and flowers, while next door is the attractive, but usually crowded Gangzaihou Beach. Close by to its north is Sunlight Rock, the island’s highest point that can easily be reached by cable car. Farther toward the southwestern coast is Yingxiong Shan, with an unusual openair aviary at the top of the building. It is filled with colorful parrots, egrets, and tropical pigeons.