Xiamen
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Xiamen
Xiamen is a major coastal city in Fujian Province in southeastern China, facing the Taiwan Strait, with around 5.35 million permanent residents. The city combines islands, beaches, hills, and a busy international port. Founded as a coastal fortress in 1387 during the Ming dynasty, Xiamen later became an important trading center. In 1842, it was opened to foreign trade, while in 1980 it became one of China's first Special Economic Zones. Its architecture blends traditional Fujian styles, modern skyscrapers, and European-influenced villas, especially on Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2017. Major landmarks include Nanputuo Temple, Shimao Cross-Strait Plaza, Hulishan Fortress, and Xiamen University. Zhongshan Road is the best-known shopping street, famous for arcaded buildings, shops, and restaurants. Popular beaches include Baicheng Beach, Huangcuo Beach, Guanyinshan Beach, and beaches on Gulangyu. Visitors enjoy cycling along the coastal road, sailing, hiking, and island trips. Xiamen's gastronomy features seafood, oyster omelets, satay noodles, peanut soup, and traditional Fujian dishes.
Zhangzhou
Zhangzhou is a historic city in southern Fujian Province, about 52 km (32.5 mi) west of Xiamen, with approximately 5 million inhabitants in its prefecture-level area. Founded as an administrative center in 686 during the Tang dynasty, it developed through agriculture, trade, and maritime connections. Important dates include 686, when Zhangzhou Prefecture was established, and 1985, when it became a prefecture-level city. The city is known for traditional Minnan architecture, arcaded streets, red-brick houses, ancestral halls, and temples. Major attractions include Zhangzhou Ancient City, the Confucian Temple, Nanshan Temple, and historic neighborhoods. https://fujian.gov.cn/english/UsefulInformation/PlacestoVisit/201701/t20170125_1869532.htm
Car: 52 km (32.5 mi), 1 hour
Bus: 1 h 10 min
Quanzhou
Quanzhou is a historic port city in southeastern Fujian Province, about 90 km (56 mi) northeast of Xiamen, with approximately 8.9 million inhabitants in its prefecture-level area. Founded in 718 during the Tang dynasty, it became one of the world's most important maritime trading ports during the Song and Yuan dynasties. Important dates include 718, when Quanzhou was established, and 2021, when its historic sites were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The city is famous for Minnan architecture, red-brick houses, temples, and arcaded streets. Major attractions include Kaiyuan Temple, the East and West Pagodas, Qingjing Mosque, Tianhou Temple, and lively West Street. http://www.enquanzhou.com/
Car: 90 km (56 mi), 1 h 20 min
Train: 25-50 min
Riyuegu Hot Springs
Riyuegu Hot Springs is a popular thermal resort located in Haicang District, about 30 km (19 mi) from central Xiamen. The resort is famous for its natural underground hot spring water, which rises from deep geothermal sources and is valued for its mineral content and relaxing properties. Visitors can enjoy numerous outdoor pools with different temperatures, as well as herbal, flower, tea, milk, and hydrotherapy baths. The warm mineral water is traditionally associated with relaxation, improved circulation, and relief from muscle fatigue. Surrounded by tropical gardens, palm trees, and peaceful greenery, the complex also offers spa treatments, massage services, and relaxation areas, making Riyuegu Hot Springs an ideal wellness day trip from Xiamen. https://intl.riyuegu.com/
Car: 30 km (19 mi), 35 min
Metro + Bus: (Metro Line 2, transfer at Dongfu Station) 50-60 min
