Things to do in Xiamen

Activities, attractions and tours

Xiamen showing a city, street scenes and shopping
Nanputuo Temple featuring street scenes, a temple or place of worship and religious aspects
Xiamen showing a small town or village
Gulangyu Island showing a city and street scenes
Hulishan Cannon Fort showing art, outdoor art and a castle

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What to do in Xiamen

Popular places to visit

Nanputuo Temple featuring street scenes, a temple or place of worship and religious aspects

Nanputuo Temple

5/5(1 review)

One of Xiamen's most important Buddhist temples, this complex is home to fine artwork and lovely natural scenery.

Nanputuo Temple
Wanshi Botanical Garden

Wanshi Botanical Garden

This enormous green space encompasses a number of rare botanical zones and interesting cultural sites.

Wanshi Botanical Garden
Gulangyu Island showing a bay or harbour, a skyscraper and a coastal town

Gulangyu

You can take time to visit Gulangyu during your travels to Xiamen. Stroll along the marina or discover the area's mountain views.

Gulangyu
Hulishan Cannon Fort showing a monument and military items

Hulishan Cannon Fort

Home to one of the world’s oldest ancient cannons, this military site once played an important role in China’s defense.

Hulishan Cannon Fort

Wutong Passenger Wharf

Explore the waterfront in Xiamen with a trip to Wutong Passenger Wharf. Wander the lakeside and gardens in the area.

Wutong Passenger Wharf

Xiamen International Convention and Exhibition Center

Learn about the events happening in Xiamen International Convention and Exhibition Center during your trip to Xiamen. Wander the lakeside and gardens in the area.

Xiamen International Convention and Exhibition Center

Xiamen University

5/5(1 review)

Enjoy the student vibe when you visit Xiamen University during your travels in Xiamen. While you're in the area, wander around the gardens.

Xiamen University

Xiamen-Gulangyu Island Terminal

3.5/5(2 reviews)

Explore the waterfront in Xiamen with a trip to Xiamen-Gulangyu Island Terminal. While you're in the area, wander around the gardens.

Xiamen-Gulangyu Island Terminal

SM City Xiamen

4/5(1 review)

You can enjoy retail therapy at SM City Xiamen during your stay in Xiamen. Wander the lakeside and gardens in the area.

SM City Xiamen

Areas of Xiamen

Nanputuo Temple featuring a garden, a lake or waterhole and a city

Siming District

4.5/5(6 area reviews)

Get to know Siming District and its many features like its mountain views and museums. You might want to explore sights like Xiamen Botanical Garden and Wanshi Botanical Garden, and you can jump on the metro at Xiamen Station or Shangli Xincun Station to get around the city.

Siming District
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Huli District

You might enjoy the gardens while in Huli District. Wuyuanwan Wetland Park is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Andou Station or Banshang Subway Station to see more of the city.

Huli District
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Jimei District

5/5(1 area review)

The gardens and monuments are just a few things visitors like about Jimei District. Jimei Cultural Arts Center and Nitto Park are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at Jimei Software Park Station or Jimei Boulevard Station to get around the larger area.

Jimei District
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Haicang

4/5(1 area review)

The museums and monuments are just a few things visitors like about Haicang. Xiamen Tianzhu Mountain Tourism Scenic Spot and Riyuegu Aquatic Park are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at Xinyang Avenue Station or Dongyao Station to get around the larger area.

Haicang
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Tong'an District

You'll enjoy the mountain views and museums in Tong'an District. You might want to make time for a stop at Tong'an Museum or TongAn ZhanTing.

Tong'an District
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Xiang'an District

While you're in Xiang'an District, take in top sights like Xiamen Lvtang Xiangshan Mountain and jump on the metro at Xiang'an Station to see more of the city.

Xiang'an District

Frequently asked questions

Is Xiamen worth visiting?
Xiamen has a unique blend of culture, local charm and attractions. Whether you're into the outdoors, history or local culinary flavours, there's plenty here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Xiamen?
Wutong Passenger Wharf and Hai Yun Tai Beach are two awesome places to kick-start your holiday adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and shopping options in Xiamen while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Xiamen?
The top tourist attraction in Xiamen is Hai Yun Tai Beach, so be sure to add it to your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Xiamen?
You can easily tick off leading sights like Hai Yun Tai Beach, Xiamen Seabed World and Xiamen Museum with a three-day break in Xiamen. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a while longer and head to Huli District.
Is Xiamen a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Xiamen, such as Xiamen Seabed World and Xiamen Museum, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Just 5 kilometres from the city centre of Xiamen is Siming District and Jiangtou is 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Xiamen with kids?
Whether you're travelling with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities takes your trip to the next level. Check out our recommendations for what to do in Xiamen with kids.

What to do in Xiamen for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or adventure seeker, there are plenty of things to do in Xiamen for adults including Prison Break Fight Site of Xiamen.
Are there free things to do in Xiamen?
In Xiamen, Xiamen Museum is a popular spot for anyone looking to experience the city without taking their wallet out. Also, check out the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a good way to find out about the best free things to do in Xiamen.