Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street

What are the most recommended things to do in Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street?

Stroll along the pedestrian street to explore various local shops, restaurants, and boutiques. Enjoy the street food and local snacks, visit cultural landmarks like the nearby Gulangyu Island, and take in the beautiful colonial-era architecture that characterizes this historic area.


Introducing Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street

Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street, Xiamen's oldest commercial street, was built in 1925 and retains a relatively complete modern historical style. Since the Xiamen Ferry Terminal is at the end, many tourists visiting Gulangyu Island will stop by for a stroll.

The buildings along Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street are all covered in arcades, with pink and cream as the main colors, giving them a strong Nanyang style. The weathered walls and old wooden windows have been imbued with a sense of charm. The area also houses numerous cultural relics and historical sites, including Xiaozoumalu, Chen Huacheng's former residence, the First Chinese Church, Xinjie Chapel, and Jiangxia Hall.

This is a landmark of Xiamen, where you can go shopping and buy some seafood. In addition, the dazzling night view and a wide variety of Fujian and Taiwan snacks are also a major feature of Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day


Most Popular FAQs for Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street

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

Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street is one of Xiamen's oldest and most famous shopping streets, reflecting the city's rich colonial history. The street was named after Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of modern China, and is home to many historic buildings and cultural landmarks.

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

Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street is located in the heart of Xiamen city. It can be easily accessed by taking the metro Line 1 to Zhongshan Park station or by taking a taxi. The street is pedestrian-friendly, making it great for walking as well.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The pedestrian street is open 24 hours, but the best time to visit is in the late afternoon to evening, when the area is bustling with life, the shops are open, and the street food vendors are active. Avoid weekends and holidays for a less crowded experience.

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

There is no entrance fee for Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street itself, as it is an open-air shopping and sightseeing street. However, some attractions or shops may have separate charges.

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

No advance booking is required for visiting the pedestrian street. However, tickets for certain attractions or restaurants in the area may require advance reservations, especially during peak seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can fully explore the area in 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you spend shopping, dining, or visiting nearby attractions like Gulangyu Island.

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

The must-see highlights include the historic architecture, local shops, street food vendors, and cultural landmarks such as the nearby Gulangyu Island and the Zengcuoan Cultural Village.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some tours may be offered in English. It’s best to book these in advance through local tour operators or hotels.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints for photography are along the street itself, where you can capture the beautiful architecture and the bustling crowds. The street also offers good views of the surrounding colonial buildings and the nearby Gulangyu Island.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the eastern end of Zhongshan Road, where you can visit the Zhongshan Park. Walk westwards towards the shopping area, explore the local food scene, and stop at historical landmarks along the way, such as the traditional colonial buildings.

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

Yes, the pedestrian street is particularly lively at night, with streetlights illuminating the area. While there are no light shows, the vibrant atmosphere and night market make it a great spot for evening visits.

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

The street can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid large crowds, visit on weekdays in the early afternoon or late evening.

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

There are plenty of toilets, food vendors, water stations, and rest areas along the pedestrian street. Numerous shops and local boutiques line the area, offering everything from snacks to clothing and souvenirs.

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

The area is generally accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with flat pathways and ramps in most areas. However, it can get crowded, which may make it difficult to navigate during peak hours.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted. It’s still a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller vendors and traditional markets.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a variety of restaurants and cafes around Zhongshan Road, offering both local Fujian cuisine and international options. Popular dishes include seafood, dumplings, and local desserts like peanut soup.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many of the local restaurants, with several serving plant-based Chinese dishes. Halal food can also be found at certain eateries that cater to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street, including luxury options like the Marco Polo Xiamen, as well as budget-friendly accommodations. There are also boutique hotels offering a more local experience.

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

Nearby attractions include Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colonial architecture and gardens, as well as Nanputuo Temple, which is one of the most important Buddhist sites in the region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenir shops line the street, offering a wide variety of items such as local handicrafts, tea, traditional Chinese clothing, and Xiamen specialties like dried seafood and peanut brittle.

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

After visiting Zhongshan Road, you can take a taxi or metro to nearby attractions like Gulangyu Island. If you're continuing your trip to other parts of Xiamen or Fujian, buses and high-speed trains are also easily accessible from the area.