Xiamen B级城市
厦门
Xiamen, a coastal city in Fujian Province, is known as the '海上花园' (Garden on the Sea). With its blend of colonial architecture, traditional Minnan culture, and modern development, it offers a unique mix of East and West. The city features beautiful beaches, the UNESCO-listed Gulangyu Island, Buddhist temples, and world-class cuisine.
📍 Overview
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🌤️ Best Time to Visit
Best visited in spring (March-May) or autumn (October-November) for pleasant weather. Summers are hot and humid with frequent typhoons. Winters are mild but can be rainy. Bring rain gear year-round and sunscreen in summer.
Top Highlights
Quick Facts
🍜 美食亮点 本地人真心推荐
Discover local food highlights in Xiamen
本地美食亮点
Xiamen本地人真心推荐
本地人推荐
13家Hai Zheng
xm-haizheng
8 Zengcuo'an, Siming District
Xian Lu
xm-xianlu
Jimei District, near School Village
Long De
xm-longde
Zhongshan Road arcade building
平价美食
26家Nai An Zhai
xm-naianza
123 Zhongshan Road, Siming District
Sha Xian
xm-shaxian
Shapowei, near fishing harbor
Lao Meng
xm-laomeng
66 Huandao Road, Siming District
🍜 探索Xiamen全部美食
米其林、黑珍珠、本地推荐 — 三层筛选
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🗺️ Three-in-One Food Map
Layer controls: Michelin stars, Black Pearl rankings, and local recommendations
🏛️ Must-Visit Attractions (50 places)
Discover the best attractions in Xiamen
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Gulangyu Island
Cultural鼓浪屿
A UNESCO World Heritage island known for its colonial architecture, piano museum, and car-free streets. Features over 1,000 historical buildings and stunning ocean views.
Book ferry tickets in advance during holidays. Rent an audio guide at the pier. Best explored on foot - no cars allowed. Visit in early morning for fewer crowds.
📍 Gulangyu Island, Siming District
Nanputuo Temple
Cultural南普陀寺
One of the most important Buddhist temples in Fujian, set against the backdrop of Five Old Men Peak. Known for vegetarian restaurant and beautiful architecture.
Climb the mountain for panoramic city views. Don't miss the vegetarian noodles at the temple restaurant. Respect Buddhist customs - dress modestly.
📍 515 Siming Road, Siming District
Xiamen University
Cultural厦门大学
Known as China's most beautiful university campus, featuring unique闽南建筑 (Minnan architecture), lakes, and palm-lined streets. Founded by Tan Kah Kee in 1921.
Book through XMU service app. Visit Furong Lake and the tunnel with student murals. The campus is stunning at sunset. Nearby Zengcuo'an for snacks.
📍 422 Siming South Road, Siming District
Huandao Road (Island Ring Road)
Natural环岛路
A scenic 31km coastal road offering beautiful sea views, beaches, and parks. Perfect for cycling, jogging, or leisurely drives with stops at various beach areas.
Rent a bicycle at many rental points. Best visited at sunset. Combine with nearby attractions. Morning runs are popular with locals.
📍 Coastal road from Huli District to Xiang'an District
Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street
Modern中山路步行街
Xiamen's premier shopping street featuring arcade buildings with diverse architectural styles, local snacks, and international brands. The heart of downtown Xiamen.
Explore side alleys for hidden temples and old houses. Try local snacks along the street. Best evening visit when buildings are illuminated.
📍 Zhongshan Road, Siming District
🚇 Transport Guide
Getting to and around Xiamen
Getting to Xiamen
Major international airports (Singapore, Tokyo, Seoul, Bangkok)
💡 Gaoqi Airport is close to city center (15 minutes). Use official taxi queue or Didi. Metro Line 2 connects to city.
Fuzhou (1.5h), Quanzhou (1h), Zhangzhou (30min)
💡 Xiamen North is for high-speed trains. Xiamen Station is closer to center. Book through 12306 app.
Shanghai (6h), Shenzhen (3h), Hangzhou (4h)
💡 High-speed trains are comfortable. scenic route along coast. Book seats on right side for ocean views.
Getting Around
🚇 Metro
- • Metro Line 1: Railway Station to Amphitheater (Coastal scenic route)
- • Metro Line 2: Jiahe Road to Tianzhou Road (connects airport)
- • Metro Line 3: Handan Road to Songbai Road (connects Xiang'an)
- • Single ride: 2-8¥ depending on distance
- • First train: 06:30, Last train: 23:00
- • Peak hours: 07:00-09:00, 17:00-19:00 - expect crowds
🚌 Bus
- • Extensive network covering all areas
- • Single ride: 1-2¥ (flat fee or distance-based)
- • BRT (Bus Rapid Transit): dedicated lanes, faster travel
- • Tourist Bus 29: links major attractions around Island Ring
- • Airport bus: 10-30¥ to city center
- • Night bus routes available for late-night travel
🚕 Taxi
- • Starting fare: 10¥ (first 3km)
- • Waiting: 0.5¥ per minute
- • Night surcharge: 10% extra (23:00-06:00)
- • Always insist on meter use
- • Didi app recommended - English interface available
- • Airport/large hotels have taxi stands with queue system
🚴 Bike
- • Mobike, Hello bikes, and other shared bikes widely available
- • Unlock: 1-2¥, then 0.5-1.5¥ per 15-30 minutes
- • Designated bike lanes on Huandao Road
- • Electric bikes available for longer distances
- • Must park at designated spots in some areas
🏨 Where to Stay
Browse 180 vetted hotels across 6 categories in Xiamen
💳 Payment Guide
How to pay in Xiamen
Alipay
Most widely accepted mobile payment in Xiamen
How to Use:
- 1. Download Alipay app before arrival
- 1. Link international credit card (Visa/Mastercard accepted at many merchants)
- 1. QR code payment at most merchants, supermarkets, and restaurants
- 1. Use for metro, bus, taxis, and rideshare
Tips:
- • Nearly all merchants in Xiamen accept Alipay
- • Blue code (international version) available for foreign cards
- • Download before arrival as app stores may not have it
- • Keep some cash as backup in rural areas
WeChat Pay
Second most popular payment method, integrated with social app
How to Use:
- 1. WeChat app required
- 1. Link international card through WeChat Pay
- 1. Scan QR code to pay at merchants
- 1. Use for small purchases and tipping
Tips:
- • English interface available in settings
- • Most locals prefer WeChat Pay for peer-to-peer
- • Both Alipay and WeChat work at most merchants
- • Useful for ordering at some restaurants
Cash (RMB)
Still accepted everywhere, essential for local markets and small vendors
How to Use:
- 1. Exchange at airport bank or ATM
- 1. ICBC and Bank of China ATMs widely available
- 1. 500¥, 100¥, 50¥ notes most useful
- 1. Small vendors at markets prefer cash
Tips:
- • Keep 100-200¥ in cash for markets
- • ATMs at Metro stations convenient for cash
- • Xiamen is mostly cashless - only rural markets need cash
- • ATMs charge 10-20¥ fee for foreign cards
International Credit Cards
Accepted at hotels, large restaurants, and international chains
How to Use:
- 1. Visa and Mastercard accepted at upscale venues
- 1. May require passport verification
- 1. Look for card logos at store entrances
Tips:
- • Call your bank before travel to enable international use
- • Some places add 2-3% foreign transaction fee
- • Best used at hotels and modern shopping malls
- • Smaller shops and restaurants often don't accept cards
China UnionPay
Domestic bank cards - widely accepted across China
How to Use:
- 1. ATM cards from Chinese banks work everywhere
- 1. Can withdraw cash from ICBC, CCB, BOC ATMs
- 1. Some merchants prefer domestic cards
Tips:
- • If you have Chinese bank account, this works like debit
- • Lower fees than international cards at ATMs
- • Ask hotel to help open temporary account if needed
Mobile Payment via Digital Wallet
Digital wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay increasingly accepted
How to Use:
- 1. Link international card to Apple Pay/Google Pay
- 1. Tap to pay at terminals with contactless symbol
- 1. Available at modern stores and hotels
Tips:
- • Limited acceptance compared to Alipay/WeChat
- • Useful if you have foreign card linked
- • Works at 7-Eleven and some modern chains
- • Best as backup to Alipay/WeChat
💳 Recommended Payment Apps
💡 Switch to English mode in app settings if you see Chinese interface. Both Alipay and WeChat Pay support foreign credit cards.
📶 SIM Cards & eSIM
Stay connected in China with the best data options
📱 eSIM (Recommended)
eSIM is the easiest way to get data in China. No physical SIM needed - activate instantly on arrival.
💡 Pro Tips
- • eSIM works best if your phone supports it (iPhone XS+ and most Android flagships)
- • Download eSIM apps before arriving in China
- • Airalo and Holafly offer China-specific plans with unlimited data options
📱 Essential Apps
Download these apps before arriving in China
📱Essential Apps for Xiamen
Download these apps before arriving in China
Essential messaging, payments, mini-programs, and social platform for daily life in China. Supports English interface.
China's dominant payment app. Pay anywhere, transfer money, access government services. Full English support available.
Link your foreign card to WeChat Pay for QR code payments at stores and restaurants throughout China.
Book taxis, private cars, and rides with English interface. Supports international credit cards and English destination input.
Navigate with turn-by-turn directions in English. Search places using English. Works offline with download.
Order food delivery, browse restaurant menus (with translation), find deals. Has English menu feature for local restaurants.
The ultimate Chinese learning companion. Camera OCR, flash cards, example sentences. Essential for reading menus and signs.
Point your camera at Chinese text for instant translation. Download offline Chinese language pack.
Chinese social platform with local recommendations, reviews, and travel guides. Great for finding hidden gems and local tips.
Easy train ticket booking with English interface. Supports international credit cards.
The Yelp+Groupon of China. Browse restaurant reviews, find deals, and book tables. English interface available.
Best rates for currency exchange. Get a Wise card for travel with real exchange rates and low fees in China.
Stay connected in China with affordable eSIM data plans. No physical SIM needed. Supports China data packages.
High-precision navigation, real-time traffic updates, and walking directions. Popular among locals.
More accurate than Google for nuanced Chinese. Great for menu translation and conversations.
Unlimited data plans for China. Easy setup, instant activation. Perfect for travelers who need reliable internet.
Major food delivery platform with wide restaurant coverage. Track your order in real-time.
Scan QR codes to enter metro stations in Shanghai and other cities. Links to Alipay/WeChat Pay.
💡Download before arriving in China — app stores may be restricted.
🎎 Cultural Tips (20 tips)
Essential cultural knowledge for Xiamen
Min Nan Dialect Greetings
Medium PriorityLearn a few闽南话 phrases: 'Li ho' (hello), 'Zuo zai' (thank you), 'Cheh beh' (not good). Locals appreciate the effort even if pronunciation isn't perfect.
Seafood Ordering Etiquette
High PriorityAt seafood restaurants, prices are often 'per jin' (500g). Confirm total price before ordering. Watch the scale when selecting live seafood. Don't hesitate to negotiate at wet markets.
Tea Culture
High PriorityXiamen is famous for tea (mikong tea/功夫茶). When invited to someone's home, expect tea service. Turn the cup with both hands when receiving tea as a sign of respect.
Chopstick customs
Medium PriorityDon't stick chopsticks vertically in rice - it resembles incense for the dead. Don't point with chopsticks. Don't pass food directly from chopstick to chopstick.
Gulangyu Island Courtesy
High PriorityGulangyu is a residential island with many elderly residents. Keep noise levels down, especially near the piano museum and residential areas. No cars are allowed - respect the peaceful atmosphere.
Temple Respect
High PriorityAt Nanputuo Temple, dress modestly covering shoulders and knees. Remove sunglasses and hats when entering halls. Don't take photos where prohibited. Walk clockwise around Buddhist halls.
Photography at Fishing Harbor
Low PriorityAt Shapowei and fishing harbors, ask before photographing fishermen or their catches. Some may ask for small payment (5-10¥) for photos of them or their boats.
Sunrise and Sunset Etiquette
Medium PriorityPopular sunrise spots (Huandao Road, Gulangyu) get crowded. Don't block others' views or set up tripods for long periods. Be mindful of passing cyclists on Huandao Road.
Bargaining in Xiamen
Medium PriorityBargaining expected at Zhongshan Road stalls, Zengcuo'an shops, and markets. Start at 40-50% of asking price. Be friendly - it's part of the experience. Walk away if you can't agree.
Local Products to Buy
Low PriorityFamous Xiamen products:桂圆干 (dried longan), 金门高粱酒 (Kinmen Kaoliang wine), 闽南特产 (Minnan specialties), 茶叶 (tea), 馅饼 (pastries). Buy from reputable shops near Zhongshan Road.
🚨 Emergency Contacts (15 contacts)
Important phone numbers in Xiamen
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⚠️ In case of emergency, call the appropriate number immediately. English operators may be available.
💡 Foreign visitors in China should also save +86-10-12308 (Consular Protection Hotline) — the 24/7 English-speaking line of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Quick Dial (Inside China)
Note: The SOS button in the bottom-right corner of any page provides instant access to emergency services with translation and GPS location sharing.
🌐 For Foreign Visitors (Reachable Internationally)
These numbers work from outside mainland China. They are the right first-call for tourists who lose their passport, are arrested, need medical help with a foreign card, or face any other emergency.
Consular Protection Hotline
International24/7 hotline for foreign nationals in China. Use for lost passports, arrests, accidents, or any consular assistance.
MFA 24h Service
InternationalChinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hour service line.
Tourist Complaint & Help
InternationalNational tourism complaint line and tourist assistance.
Cultural Market (IP)
InternationalReport cultural-market violations (tourist traps, unlicensed guides).
Government Service
InternationalGeneral-purpose government service hotline; many cities answer in basic English.
Traffic Police Service
InternationalTraffic police general service line.
🏥 Hospitals
The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University
厦门大学附属第一医院
55 Zhenhai Road, Siming District
Large public hospital, 24-hour emergency. English interpretation available.
Xiamen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital
厦门市中医院
16 Jiahe Road, Siming District
Good for traditional Chinese medicine treatments. Emergency services available.
Xiamen Chang Gung Hospital
厦门长庚医院
123 Changle Road, Haicang District
Taiwanese-run hospital, English-speaking staff, accepts international insurance
Xiamen University Hospital
厦门大学医院
422 Siming South Road, Siming District
On XMU campus, good for minor ailments and health checks
Xiamen Eye Center
厦门眼科中心
336 Xiahe Road, Siming District
Specialized eye hospital, 24-hour emergency for eye injuries
🏛️ Embassies & Consulates
Consulate-General of Singapore in Xiamen
新加坡驻厦门总领事馆
Xiamen Center, 95 Lujiang Road
For Singapore citizens only. Check hours before visiting.
Consulate-General of Malaysia in Xiamen
马来西亚驻厦门总领事馆
Xiamen International Bank Building, 50 Lujiang Road
For Malaysian citizens. Monday-Friday 09:00-12:00, 14:00-17:00.
📞 Other Emergency Numbers
Xiamen Emergency Center
厦门急救中心
Various locations citywide
English operators may be limited. Ask for 'ying yu' (English) operator.
Xiamen Public Security Bureau
厦门市公安局
Xiamen City Center
Tourist police stations at major attractions and Gulangyu Ferry Terminal
Xiamen Fire Brigade
厦门消防
Various stations citywide
Also handles rescue operations and accidents
Xiamen Exit-Entry Administration
厦门出入境管理局
28-32 Hubin North Road, Siming District
For visa extensions, passport issues, and residency permits
Xiamen Tourism Complaint Hotline
厦门旅游投诉热线
Citywide
Report travel scams, price disputes, or service issues
Xiamen Maritime Rescue Center
厦门海上搜救中心
Xiamen Port
For maritime emergencies, drowning, or boat accidents
Xiamen Tourist Police
厦门旅游警察
Near major attractions
Tourist police station at Gulangyu Ferry Terminal
Xiamen Foreign Affairs Office
厦门市人民政府外事办公室
11 Xiamen Government Building
Assistance for foreign nationals in Xiamen