Xiamen City Essence: Gulangyu, Nanputuo & the Ring Road

This full-day tour covers Xiamen's essential sights in a comfortable, unhurried loop. You'll start with Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO-listed car-free enclave known for its historic villas and sea views, then return to the mainland for Nanputuo Temple and a scenic drive along the Island Ring Road. It's a solid introduction for first-time visitors.

Sample itinerary

• 08:30 Hotel pickup, transfer to Xiamen International Cruise Center ferry terminal
• 09:00 Ferry to Gulangyu Island; guided walk through old villas and Bagua Tower
• 12:30 Lunch break on Gulangyu (own arrangement or guide's suggestion)
• 14:00 Ferry back to Xiamen; visit Nanputuo Temple
• 15:30 Drive along Island Ring Road with photo stop at Hulishan Fortress
• 17:30 Return to hotel

Good to know

Gulangyu ferry tickets often sell out in peak season; book at least 3 days ahead with passport details. The island is pedestrian-only, so wear comfortable shoes. Nanputuo Temple is an active religious site; dress modestly.

Highlights

• Ride the ferry to car-free Gulangyu Island and wander its leafy lanes
• See the island's colonial-era villas, including the iconic red-domed Bagua Tower
• Visit Nanputuo Temple, an active Buddhist monastery with incense-filled halls
• Drive the scenic Island Ring Road with a photo stop at Hulishan Fortress

What’s included

• English-speaking guide
• Private air-conditioned vehicle
• Gulangyu ferry tickets and island entrance
• Bottled water
• Travel insurance

What’s not included

• Personal expenses and gratuities (tips)
• Meals arranged on your own outside the itinerary
• Optional activities and attractions not listed in the itinerary
• Compensation for damage or loss caused by personal reasons

Pickup & meeting point

Hotel pickup in Xiamen city area, around 8:30 am.