Xiamen - a perfect destination for summer vacation with the family

For parents with children in tow struggling to plan their travel itinerary, Xiamen just might provide the perfect answer. A major city in Fujian Province on the coast of the East China Sea, Xiamen has plenty to offer for both adults and children. Imagine a scenic coastal destination with clear blue skies, white sandy beaches, mazelike alleys and tasty seafood — you're imagining Xiamen. The agreeable climate, with an average year-round temperature of 21 degrees Celsius, makes it a popular resort. Apart from local attractions, day trippers can also sail to Taiwan's Jinmen Island and explore the amazing tulou (earth-packed dwellings) in neighboring Yongding City.

Cycling along Island Ring Road

Encircling the island of Xiamen, the 30-kilometer Island Ring Road offers stunning views of the island's spectacular coastline, connecting some of its best white sand beaches. Cycling is a popular way to traverse the road. Rental stalls for tandem bikes for two or three people are conveniently scattered along the major roads. Parents can easily bring their children along, and conveniently stop from time to time to examine which destinations to go to. This type of low-carbon tourism not only provides a great opportunity to raise children's environmental awareness, but also offers an enjoyable traveling experience amid the pleasant sunshine, fresh air and calm summer breeze. Remember to apply enough sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses during the hottest times of year.

Tips: A bike normally rents for 15 yuan ($2.4) per hour; tandems are 30 yuan per hour. The price varies among different rental stalls and you can bargain with the vendors.

A family rides along the Island Ring Road. [Photo/whatsonxiamen.com]

A stroll along the railways

For nearly six decades, Yingxia Railway was the only train that connected the northern and southern parts of Fujian province. Today, with the arrival of high-speed bullet trains, the deserted final 5-kilometer stretch of railroad approaching Xiamen's terminal station has been renovated into a walking path connecting nearby residential communities and parks. The renovated railway, or Railway Culture Park, begins at the old Xiamen Station, and ends near Peace Harbor.

The entire railway is divided into four sections, each with its own personality. The section starting at the old station is still in use by the old trains, their sleepers and green-painted cars still intact. The glory days of this antiquated railway are commemorated through relief sculptures and posters inside Hongshan Tunnel. Train lovers, especially little boys, will surely enjoy this.

Early summer is the best time to take a stroll among the blooming Bougainville orchids, the city's flower. You can follow the path for as long as you want, or even walk the whole path, which takes about two hours. It is also an ideal place to find a jogging companion, especially during the after-dinner hours.

The railway passes through lofty trees and beautiful flowers. [Photo/whatsonxiamen.com]

Campus tour

Xiamen University is among the most fascinating universities in China, proven by the hordes of tourists lining up outside the gate every day during holidays. Founded by Chinese Singaporean Tan Kah Kee, the campus boasts picturesque landscapes, elegant architecture, and a spacious sports field. It offers a taste of energetic campus life to college freshmen and young children.

Check out the renowned graffiti tunnel where students' imaginations are unleashed, and Valentine's Valley, a romantic hideaway for young lovers on campus.

Take BRT to Jimei Education Village, an academic region that is famous for its majestic architecture, from elementary schools to universities.

Tips:

Xiamen University

Address: No 422, South Siming Road, Siming district, Xiamen

Hours: 12 pm-2 pm and after 5 pm, Monday to Friday (ID required)

Jimei Education Village

The village is open 24 hours, though the elementary and high schools are not open to the public.

Take BRT to Jimei's Jiageng Stadium Station, transfer to shuttle bus L22 to the terminal station.

A section of the graffiti tunnel at Xiamen University. [Photo/whatsonxiamen.com]