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Xiamen University was founded in the early 20th century and has a history of over a hundred years. It was funded by the famous overseas Chinese Tan Kah Kee and was one of the 17 comprehensive universities established after the liberation. The university has now become a tourist attraction, among which the Shangxuanchang Building Complex is particularly impressive.
This is another distinctive group of buildings in Xiamen University. It takes advantage of the arc shape of the playground and faces the sea. The five buildings are spread out in an arc, highlighting the auditorium, which is very suitable for taking photos.
Xiamen University's Shangxian Stadium is a must-see. This massive stadium, framed by the majestic Jiannan Great Hall, appears even more imposing. Standing at the foot of Jiannan Great Hall, facing Shangxian Stadium, the view is incredibly expansive, and I suddenly feel my own insignificance.
The Shangxuanchang complex boasts a subtropical monsoon climate. The complex consists of seven buildings, with the Jiannan Auditorium at its center, flanked by three annexes. In front of the Jiannan Auditorium, a large stadium has been constructed, utilizing the sunken terrain. It is suitable for outdoor activities in all seasons.
It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours
No tickets required
Open all day
The Shangxuanchang Building Complex is a historical landmark in Xiamen, reflecting the city's development during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is a symbol of the fusion of Western and Chinese architectural influences, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The Shangxuanchang Building Complex is located in the central area of Xiamen. You can reach it by taking a taxi, metro (the nearest station is a short walk away), or public bus.
The complex is open to the public at all times, though it is best to visit during daylight hours for the best photos and to enjoy the surrounding area. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal to avoid crowds.
There is no entrance fee for the Shangxuanchang Building Complex as it is an open architectural site. Visitors can explore freely without the need for tickets.
No advance booking is necessary for visiting the Shangxuanchang Building Complex since it is an open-air historical site.
You can fully explore the Shangxuanchang Building Complex in about 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you spend admiring the architecture and taking photos.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English. It is recommended to book in advance if you wish to have a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the history of the site.
The best photography spots are the front and side views of the building, capturing its blend of traditional and modern architectural styles. The surrounding streets and parks also offer great backdrops for photos.
Start at the main entrance and walk around the perimeter of the building to admire the architecture. Spend time exploring the surrounding area and nearby parks for a full experience.
There are no special night tours or light shows at the Shangxuanchang Building Complex. However, the building looks beautiful when lit up at night, offering great photo opportunities.
The complex can get busy during weekends and public holidays. The best times to visit for fewer crowds are weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon.
The site is generally accessible for elderly and children. However, some areas may be a bit challenging for disabled visitors due to uneven surfaces and limited facilities for accessibility.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) and credit cards are commonly used in the area, especially in nearby shops and restaurants.
Yes, there are vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options in nearby restaurants and cafes, catering to diverse dietary preferences.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling local crafts, porcelain, traditional teas, and Xiamen’s famous snacks such as peanut brittle.
The best transportation options to continue your trip are by taxi or public transport, such as bus or metro. Taxis are convenient for visiting other attractions like Gulangyu Island or Xiamen University.
