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Gulangyu, a small island southwest of Xiamen, covers only 1.78 square kilometers. While its acclaimed titles—"Garden on the Sea," "Piano Island," and "World Architecture Expo"—have painted it as a place of pride, when you explore the island on foot, walk past its ivy-covered red brick walls, or sit by the seaside on a tree-shaded afternoon, letting the sea breeze lull you into sleep, the word "small island" truly captures the essence of Gulangyu.
Gulangyu is a tranquil and artistic island, with no motor vehicles or factories. Everyone has returned to their original state. Its architectural style is also a major feature of Gulangyu. Since 1902, 13 countries, including Britain, the United States, Germany, and Japan, have built on Gulangyu, earning it the nickname "The Museum of International Architecture."
Gulangyu has a warm and humid climate, with neither severe cold in winter nor scorching heat in summer. With ample sunshine, flowers and trees flourish year-round.
Spring and autumn are the best seasons for traveling, and winter is also relatively warm.
If you don't stay overnight, you can explore the entire island in one day. However, since there are no means of transportation on the island, you will feel a little tired when you return on the same day.
The core attractions of the scenic area include: Sunlight Rock Scenic Area (including Sunlight Rock, Zheng Chenggong Memorial Hall, Hundred Birds Garden, and the cable car from Sunlight Rock to Hundred Birds Garden), Shuzhuang Garden, Organ Museum, Haoyue Garden and International Calligraphy Art Museum.
The pass for the core attractions of Gulangyu Scenic Area costs 100 yuan and includes the following five major attractions: Sunlight Rock Scenic Area (including Sunlight Rock, Zheng Chenggong Memorial Hall, Hundred Birds Garden, and the cable car from Sunlight Rock to Hundred Birds Garden), Shuzhuang Garden, Organ Museum, Haoyue Garden and International Calligraphy Art Museum.
07:30-17:30
Gulangyu Island is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site known for its colonial architecture, historic villas, and rich musical heritage, including a strong tradition of piano music. The island was an international settlement in the 19th century, blending Western and Chinese influences.
Gulangyu Island is off the coast of Xiamen, Fujian. Access is via ferry from Xiamen’s ferry terminals. Once on the island, travel is on foot or by electric cart, as motor vehicles are prohibited.
The island is open year-round. Best visiting times are spring and autumn for mild weather and comfortable walking conditions.
Ferry tickets cost approximately 35–50 CNY round-trip. Some attractions, like Shuzhuang Garden or the Piano Museum, have small entrance fees (20–50 CNY). Tickets can be purchased online or at ferry terminals and attraction entrances.
Booking ferry tickets in advance is recommended on weekends and holidays. Attraction tickets are usually available on-site but can be booked online for convenience.
Half a day to a full day (4–6 hours) is recommended to explore key attractions, walk the streets, and climb Sunlight Rock.
Guided tours are available in Chinese and sometimes in English. Audio guides are limited and mostly in Chinese.
Start at the ferry terminal, visit Shuzhuang Garden, explore streets and historic villas, see the Piano Museum, then climb Sunlight Rock for final views. Finish with a leisurely walk along the coastline.
The island has limited night access; most attractions close before evening. Special cultural events or musical performances may occur seasonally.
The island can be very crowded on weekends and public holidays. Weekdays and early mornings are quieter for sightseeing.
Facilities include public restrooms, small cafes, restaurants, water fountains, and souvenir shops along main streets.
The island is mostly pedestrian-friendly but has hilly terrain. Elderly and children can explore with care. Wheelchair access is limited due to steps and slopes.
Mobile payments are widely accepted, especially for food and attractions. Cash is useful for smaller vendors.
Local seafood restaurants, tea houses, and small cafes are scattered throughout the island, serving Fujian cuisine and snacks.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some cafes and restaurants. Halal options are limited but can be found in Xiamen city before taking the ferry.
Hotels and guesthouses are available on Xiamen Island, near ferry terminals. Small guesthouses exist on Gulangyu Island but are limited.
Souvenir shops sell local handicrafts, postcards, miniatures of colonial buildings, musical instruments, and specialty snacks like peanut candy.
