Guanhai Garden

Introducing Guanhai Garden

Located in the southeast of Gulangyu Island, Guanhai Garden occupies one-twentieth of the island's area. It boasts 20 nationally and municipally protected cultural relics and other historical buildings, including six Gulangyu World Cultural Heritage sites.

Guanhai Garden was originally farmland and green space. British diplomats first built the British Consulate at No. 6 Tianwei Road. The American Reformed Church later relocated the Yude Girls' School to the east side of Tianwei Road, and the Xiamen Customs established a residential area. With the completion of residences, schools, villas, and clubs, Guanhai Garden became a multinational community for Western church members, customs officials, diplomats, and foreign businessmen. Guanhai Garden boasts 20 historic buildings, four of which are nationally protected historical buildings, one key protected building, six generally protected historical buildings, and the remainder are general buildings.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical maritime monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Yude Girls' School

Yude Girls' School is one of the largest surviving public buildings from the early period of Gulangyu Island. It is a typical colonial-style building with two stories and a "I"-shaped floor plan, covering 570 square meters. It is a World Cultural Heritage Site on Gulangyu Island and a nationally protected cultural relic.

International Club

The International Club, with a construction area of ​​over 1,500 square meters, is a World Cultural Heritage site on Gulangyu Island and a nationally protected cultural relic. In the early 1920s, the International Club relocated from its original location on Luerjiao to a hillside site near the seashore on Tianwei East Road. The International Club served as a social and entertainment venue for foreigners, Chinese dignitaries, and senior Chinese employees of foreign companies on Gulangyu Island. It featured a dance hall, bar, billiards room, bowling alley, foreign language library, and social hall. It was also known as the Qunle Building.

Sanluo Girl Tower

The three-story Maiden's Building is a fusion of Chinese and Western architecture, featuring intricate brickwork, beautiful shapes, and beautiful proportions. Its roof reflects traditional Southern Fujian style, while its walls and windows, particularly the cloister, are Western in design. The building was once home to three American female teachers who dedicated their youth and talents to the site, remaining unmarried throughout their lives. They were deeply loved by the locals, earning it the nickname "Miss's Building."

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours

Tickets

Free, the park currently uses a reservation system

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Guanhai Garden

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Guanhai Garden is a famous coastal garden in Xiamen, known for its unique integration of tropical and subtropical plants. It serves as a botanical garden and a tranquil retreat for visitors, offering insight into plant biodiversity and the natural beauty of Xiamen's coastal landscape.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Guanhai Garden is located on the southern coast of Xiamen Island. It is accessible by taxi or bus from Xiamen’s city center. The nearest bus stop is a short walk from the entrance, and it’s about a 20-minute drive from Xiamen Railway Station.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The garden is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon, when the weather is cooler and the garden is less crowded.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately 40-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased directly at the gate, and online ticketing platforms may also offer pre-purchase options for convenience.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not required except during peak tourist seasons. You can usually buy tickets on-site, but booking 1-2 days in advance may be helpful if visiting during holidays or weekends.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the entire garden, depending on how leisurely you want to enjoy the views and explore the plant collections.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The key highlights include the tropical plant zone, the coastal views, and the flower gardens. The garden’s blend of plants and its coastal location make it a picturesque spot for nature lovers.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and English-speaking guides may also be available during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides can be rented at the entrance in multiple languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the panoramic coastal views, flower beds, and the tranquil pond. The garden’s varied landscapes offer multiple opportunities for capturing both plant life and scenic vistas.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance and head toward the coastal promenade to enjoy the views. Then, explore the tropical plant zones, stopping for photos. End by visiting the central flower garden and the pond area for a relaxing moment.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not available, but special tours or events may be hosted during certain festivals or holidays. It is recommended to check the garden’s schedule for any special events.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The garden can be busy during weekends and public holidays. For a more peaceful experience, visit on weekdays, especially in the early mornings or late afternoons.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The garden has clean toilets, rest areas, and drinking water stations. There are also a few small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs, as well as vending machines for drinks.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The garden is mostly accessible for elderly visitors and children, with paved paths for easy walking. However, some areas may be slightly hilly, so it’s advisable to check in advance for accessibility needs.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted, and credit cards can also be used. Cash is still accepted but may be less convenient.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small local cafes and restaurants nearby offering Chinese snacks and light meals. For a wider variety of dining options, head towards Xiamen city center or the nearby Gulangyu Island.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are vegetarian-friendly dishes available in the nearby cafes, but halal food options are more limited. It's advisable to check with the restaurant in advance for specific dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Xiamen’s city center, about 20 minutes away by car. There are also guesthouses and boutique hotels on Gulangyu Island, which is a popular nearby area for tourists.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Xiamen Botanical Garden, Gulangyu Island, and Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street. These can easily be combined in a day trip, making for a well-rounded visit to Xiamen.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available near the garden entrance. Typical souvenirs include local crafts, Xiamen tea, bamboo products, and snacks like peanut brittle and dried fruit.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the garden, taxis or public buses are the most convenient options for continuing your trip. You can also take a ferry to Gulangyu Island or explore other parts of Xiamen by bus or taxi.