Xiamen, China
Xiamen is often celebrated as the "Garden on the Sea," offering cruise passengers a stunning blend of scenic beauty, colonial history, and modern urban planning. Major cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and Costa Cruises frequently include this port on their Asian itineraries, drawn by its reputation as one of China's most livable and cleanest cities. Visitors are immediately charmed by the unique fusion of Fujian culture, Western architecture, and the pedestrian-friendly sanctuary of Gulangyu Island nearby.
The absolute must-see attraction is Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its vehicle-free streets, colonial consulates, and the unique Piano Museum. Back on the main island, the Nanputuo Temple offers a spiritual retreat with its beautiful lotus ponds and Buddhist statues nestled at the foot of Wulao Peaks. For a mix of history and coastal scenery, visitors should head to the Hulishan Fortress, which houses ancient cannons and offers panoramic views of the sea.
Last updated on February 6, 2026
While there is much to see locally, many passengers opt for a shore excursion to see the Fujian Tulou, the iconic earthen roundhouses of the Hakka people, located approximately 2.5 to 3 hours inland. Another cultural gem is the historic city of Quanzhou, roughly 90 minutes away by car, which served as the starting point of the Maritime Silk Road. These destinations offer a profound look into rural architecture and ancient Chinese maritime history.
Last updated on February 6, 2026
Cruise ships dock at the Xiamen International Cruise Center (Dongdu Terminal), which is situated on the western side of the island. The terminal is a large, modern complex that also serves as the ferry terminal for tourists heading to Gulangyu during the day. It is located about 15 to 20 minutes by taxi from the city center and the popular Zhongshan Road pedestrian area, meaning transportation is generally required to reach the main downtown attractions.
Last updated on February 6, 2026
The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (RMB). While major credit cards are accepted in large hotels and shopping malls, cash is still essential for small vendors, taxis, and street food. It is advisable to exchange money at the cruise terminal or use ATMs, as many local merchants primarily use mobile payment systems like WeChat Pay or Alipay which can be difficult for short-term visitors to set up.
Last updated on February 6, 2026
Xiamen is widely regarded as one of the safest cities in China for tourists, with a relaxed atmosphere and low crime rates. However, visitors should remain vigilant against pickpockets in crowded areas like the ferry terminals or on Zhongshan Road. A common tourist trap involves friendly strangers inviting you to a "tea ceremony" or art gallery, which often results in an aggressive demand for payment at exorbitant rates, so it is best to decline such unsolicited invitations.
Last updated on February 6, 2026
The city enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate, featuring mild, dry winters and hot, humid summers. The most pleasant times to visit are spring and autumn, when temperatures are comfortable for outdoor exploration. Cruise passengers visiting between July and September should be aware that this is typhoon season, so it is wise to pack rain gear and monitor weather forecasts closely.
Last updated on February 6, 2026
Getting around is relatively easy with an abundance of taxis, though it is highly recommended to have your destination written in Chinese as few drivers speak English. The city features a unique elevated Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and a modern Metro network that connects the cruise terminal area to downtown. To visit Gulangyu Island, tourists must take a specific ferry from the cruise terminal (Dongdu), as the riverside ferry terminal is reserved for local residents during the day.
Last updated on February 6, 2026
The premier shopping destination is Zhongshan Road, a vibrant pedestrian street lined with historic shophouses, modern department stores, and local food stalls. Xiamen is famous for its tea, particularly Tieguanyin Oolong, as well as dried seafood, lacquer thread sculptures, and pearl embroidery. While prices in malls are fixed, bargaining is expected and encouraged when purchasing souvenirs from street vendors or small independent shops.
Last updated on February 6, 2026
This one-stop professional English guide service offers great local language support whether you are traveling in Xiamen for business or leisure. Your itinerary will be fully customized around you, including potential sightseeing tours to famous attractions in the city. Your professional guide will help you overcome culture and language barriers to ensure a smooth and wonderful trip.
Designed specifically for travelers with a 5 to 12-hour layover, this visa-free private day tour maximizes your limited time in Xiamen. You will explore all the city's highlights and learn about its modern history from a knowledgeable and passionate guide. Complete your experience by having fun walking through the city's labyrinth of alleys.
Spend a wonderful day on this private tour discovering Xiamen from colonial Gulangyu Island to modern architecture along the Lu Jiang River. You will experience local culture and history at sites like the classic Shuzhuang Garden, Nanputuo Buddhist Temple, and the charming beaches of Huandao Road. Enjoy the flexibility of an exclusive tour that allows you to explore at your own pace, whether traveling solo or with family.
Enjoy a fun adventure to local food markets at Zeng Cuo An Village and the Eighth Seafood Market to see a gorgeous variety of mouthwatering foods. Your local guide will help you explore the city's oldest and largest seafood market, where you can marvel at spectacular ranges of fresh wet and dried goodies. This tour includes convenient door-to-door transfers and flexible departure times to cater to your specific schedule.
Make the most of your short layover in Xiamen with this exclusive, customized private city tour. You can choose to visit top attractions such as Gulangyu Island, the Nanputuo Temple, or the Ancient Qing Dynasty Fort with a friendly local guide. This flexible experience includes convenient door-to-door private transfers and a delightful local lunch or dinner.
Discover the renowned World Heritage Tulou, or Earthen Buildings, on this overnight private tour from Xiamen. With a local guide, you will explore both the Nanjing and Yongding Tulou castles situated within old Hakka villages. The experience concludes with a unique overnight stay directly inside a traditional Tulou guesthouse.
Visit the ancient village of Yunshuiyao to experience a tranquil, historical ambience amidst the highest concentration of thousand-year-old banyan trees in Fujian. Walk through cobbled paths under ancient trees to reach the heart of the village, feeling as if you are walking into living history. Reliable private car charter services are available with vehicles ranging from 5 to 55 seats to secure safe travel for your group.
This tour takes you to Meizhou Island, celebrated as the birthplace of the goddess Matsu, a vital historic figure in the hearts of the Putian people. You will immerse yourself in nature and Buddhist culture while exploring the magnificent layout of the Guanghua Temple. Marvel at the temple’s architecture, including the outer screen wall, Emperor Hall, and the Great Buddha's Hall.
Venture out of the bustling city of Xiamen on a full-day private tour to discover the lush Anxi region of Fujian Province. You will learn about the ancient history of Oolong tea in this mountainous area, which has been cultivating tea since the Tang Dynasty. Enjoy a personalized experience that includes a delicious lunch at a local farm, tea tasting, and scenic views from Anxi Hong’en Rock.
Located on the southeast coast of China, Xiamen is a premier international seaport and popular tourist destination reputed as the “Garden on the Sea”. This enchanting city integrates the cultures of overseas Chinese, western countries, and South Fujian, creating a unique urban character. It is a place where history and tradition merge seamlessly with modernity and urbanity.
This comfortable private transfer service takes you directly from your city hotel to the Xiamen North Railway Station. You will enjoy convenient door-to-door service in a private vehicle operated by a courteous and friendly driver. Let your driver serve you on this final leg of your journey to ensure a smooth departure.
Choose this private transfer to marvel at the picturesque Tianluokeng Earth Building Cluster and Hekeng Tulou, both inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will travel safely from Xiamen with an experienced driver who can provide local travel tips along the way. Customize your journey by choosing from a range of vehicles, with options from 5 to 19 seats to fit your traveling party.
Have the pleasure of exploring the Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by picturesque natural scenery. This reliable private car charter service offers safe and quality travel from Xiamen with an experienced driver. You can customize your trip by selecting from a wide range of vehicles, accommodating groups of various sizes with 5 to 19 seats.
Explore the picturesque Gulangyu Island on this private half-day tour that begins with a convenient pickup directly from the cruise port. Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, you will admire colonial European architecture and traditional Chinese gardens like Shuzhuang. Enjoy a relaxing stroll and a drink at a local café before returning to the port.
Visit the major highlights of Xiamen City and the famous Hakka Earth Buildings on this magnificent private 2-day tour. Your experience is fully inclusive of entrance fees, round-trip bullet train tickets, and a local lunch. Enjoy the convenience of a private guide and transfer service throughout your journey.
This service offers the most convenient and worry-free private transfer from Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport to Xiamen city. You will enjoy a comfortable ride with your own professional driver immediately after your long flight. This exclusive transfer ensures a smooth start to your visit with direct transport to your destination.
Spend a day away from the city bustle and take a tour to Anxi County, a must-see region known for its world-class Tieguanyin tea. You will travel safely in the hands of an experienced driver who can offer local travel tips while navigating the journey. With a wide range of vehicles from 5 to 55 seats available, you can customize the transfer to suit any group size.
Visit the highlights of Fujian, including the Nanjing and Yongding Hakka Tulous, on this comprehensive private 3-day tour. You will also explore Xiamen City while enjoying the convenience of inclusive pickup and drop-off from your hotel. This extended itinerary allows for an in-depth exploration of the region's famous earth buildings and urban sights.
Enjoy a reliable and comfortable private transfer from Xiamen city directly to Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport. Travel with your own professional driver in an air-conditioned vehicle to avoid the stress of waiting for a taxi. Vehicles ranging from 5 to 53 seats are available to cater to different group sizes, all featuring spacious boots for luggage storage.
Spend a full day with a licensed guide visiting the historical highlights of Quanzhou, the starting point of the Maritime Silk Road once praised by Marco Polo. You will explore diverse religious sites including the Kaiyuan Buddhist Temple and the Qingjing Mosque, which is rated as one of the top ten Muslim holy sites in the world. Enjoy the flexibility of this custom-built private tour to see landmarks like the Guandi and Fuwen Temples at your own desired pace.
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