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厦门 (Xiàmén). Xiamen is small in comparison to other major Chinese cities. It is a modern cosmopolitan city
with a cozy feel to it. Most foreign tourists do not venture to this part of southern China other than the
Taiwanese whose ancestors originate from here.
Essentially, Xiamen is not a city that attracts foreign tourists. It is a nice compact city to live in but not one
with major attractions nearby like some other major cities (namely Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Chengdu,
Kunming, etc, etc...). Yet, it has a charm to it somewhat. The Nanputuo temple & Xiamen University (situated
next to one another) are some interesting places for venture into when in town. Another fun & scenic
experience is to take the ferry across to the island of Gulangyu. Climb to the top of the island to get an
awesome view of both Gulangyu & city of Xiamen. Remember, it is a must or else you'd have missed out on
the best part of the trip! For an even more exciting journey, take a 40-min flight to Wuyishan!
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THE SOUND OF MUSIC
It is popularly known as the Piano island. Here is a
collection of over 200 pianos housed in a museum. If you
are a piano fan, this is where you belong!
The island is only a short 10-minute ferry ride from Xiamen.
Officially, it's called Gulangyu in Chinese. Translate that to
English, it's drum waves islet. Well, even that sounds
somewhat musical to the ears, don't you?
This is also pedestrian only island. You can walk around it
as much as you like & may even wish to retire here.
Weather here is warm & cosy all year round & you've a
beach right in front of your retirement home! The Hawaii of
the Orient! It's no wonder this was once the residence of
many Westerners during its colonial past. I was told more
than 30 countries have had its embassies stationed here!
>>> Take a stroll in Gulangyu
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