Xiamen｜Seaside Garden, Budget Travel Guide for Graduation Trips

🏖 Blue sea and sky, red brick ancient houses, and the blend of artsy vibes and everyday life in the streets and alleys—Xiamen, a "Seaside Garden" that captivates visitors, combines natural scenery with cultural heritage, making it perfect for graduation season or holiday trips.

💰 Not only are there many free attractions, but also 1 yuan coastal bus rides, 2 yuan sunset sea route sea trains, and a sea metro, all very affordable. Here’s a money-saving travel guide:

🏝 Recommended Attractions:
1️⃣ Gulangyu Island: Known as the "World Architecture Expo," the island preserves many European-style villas and Minnan ancient houses. Attractions like the Piano Museum, Sunlight Rock, and Shuzhuang Garden showcase a blend of history and art. (Remember to buy ferry tickets in advance via the mini-program "Yu Jian Xiamen").

2️⃣ Huandao Road: Stretching 31 kilometers, the fine white sandy beaches and the coconut wind village for sunset viewing are popular choices, suitable for cycling or strolling.

3️⃣ Nanputuo Temple: Free admission, a thousand-year-old temple with thriving incense offerings. The glazed tiles of the Great Compassion Hall shimmer green under the sun. Climb the back mountain for a perfect framed view of the temple’s flying eaves and Xiamen University’s Furong Lake. The Nanputuo vegetarian cake tastes great~

4️⃣ Zengcuoan: Transformed from a fishing village into an artsy neighborhood, the creative market is full of youthful energy. It’s recommended to experience the guesthouses and handicraft shops.

5️⃣ Bajie Market: A feast of local flavors amid lively street scenes, with all kinds of fresh seafood and traditional Minnan snacks. It’s very fun to stroll and eat.

6️⃣ Botanical Garden: The tropical rainforest and succulent plant areas are worth visiting to experience the wonders of nature.

【✨Money-Saving Tips✨】
✅ Use buses and metro: Xiamen buses start at 1 yuan, metro fares are distance-based (2-7 yuan), and most attractions are directly accessible.

✅ Save on ferries by choosing regular tickets: For Gulangyu, choose the regular ferry ticket (35 yuan round trip), no need to buy a return ticket separately. Don’t buy luxury cabin tickets; the luxury cabin is just the upper deck with no real difference.

✅ Free to explore Zengcuoan: But avoid buying souvenirs or flower tea on the main street (prices are inflated).

✅ Food discount guide: Local snacks like satay noodles (15-20 yuan), earthworm jelly (10 yuan/portion), oyster omelet (15 yuan) are authentic and cheap. Avoid overpriced shops inside scenic areas; go to "Bajie Market" for seafood, where there are many group-buy deals on review sites.

✅ Student and senior discounts: Bring student or senior ID cards for half-price admission at most attractions.