Gulangyu Boat Tour

[Photo/xm.gov.cn]

The island next to Xiamen, Gulangyu is probably Xiamen's most renowned tourist attraction. With its old consulate buildings, winding streets and beautiful beaches, Gulangyu really is a place you should take a closer look at. Of course you can do that by walking around on the island, but there is another way to explore it: by boat.

You can buy a ticket that first takes you one time around the island, not just till the docks but the island itself. Even if you have been there for several times, we assure you that this boat trip will teach you about an unknown facet of Gulangyu. It takes about an hour until you finally reach the docks on the island. You will see beautiful beaches, recognize the interesting shape of Gulangyu and marvel at the cultural heritage that is displayed in front of your eyes.

[Photo/xm.gov.cn]

In order to take a closer look at the scenery, you can rent binoculars (10 RMB) and explore the details although you won't technically be on the island. During the trip, the staff on the boat will tell you some stories about some of the major attractions you will come across (in Chinese and English). This all may sound like a typical tourist thing, but don't be afraid, they won't make you wear funny colored hats. You just sit there, relax and enjoy the fresh breeze and relish your time. Not only do you get a view on the picturesque island itself but you can also take a closer look at the city you live in. There is probably no better spot to take some pictures of Xiamen city, than from this boat.

After the trip around the island, you will dock at Sanqiutian Matou and have time to take a stroll. By then you will know where to find the most beautiful beaches and all the other spots, by what you learnt in the boat. The boat trip is surely recommended.

Hours of operation: 7.40 a.m. - 5.30 p.m.

How to get there: There are many buses driving to lundu station, you can take: 2, 3, 8, 10, 11, 12, 19, 23, 27, 28, 30, 31, 51, 55, 56, 66, 85, 88