Neicuo'ao Historic Quarter
Gulangyu Island: A UNESCO World Heritage site in Xiamen, famed for its colonial architecture, car-free charm, and scenic beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cheapest fares, fewer crowds
Neicuo'ao Historic Quarter
Best Time
Cheapest fares, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gulangyu Island: A UNESCO World Heritage site in Xiamen, famed for its colonial architecture, car-free charm, and scenic beauty.
"A 'heaven for walking and eating delicious food at affordable prices' with unique architecture."
Ferry Ticket Tips
Book ferry tickets in advance for cheaper fares, especially for early morning rides. :ticket:
Island Exploration
Allow ample time for a slow-paced exploration to truly appreciate the island's charm. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Architecture
Throughout Gulangyu Island
Wander through charming streets lined with beautifully preserved colonial-era mansions and unique buildings.
Haoyue Garden
Northern tip of Gulangyu Island
Visit the statue of Zheng Chenggong and enjoy panoramic views from this scenic garden.
Beaches
Various locations on Gulangyu Island
Relax on the well-maintained beaches, offering a peaceful escape with scenic ocean views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry to Gulangyu Island
Island Exploration Pace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ferry Ticket Tips
Book ferry tickets in advance for cheaper fares, especially for early morning rides. :ticket:
Island Exploration
Allow ample time for a slow-paced exploration to truly appreciate the island's charm. :walking:
Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning photos of the unique architecture and scenic landscapes. :camerawithflash:
Garden Views
Don't miss Haoyue Garden for great views and a photo with Zheng Chenggong's statue. :statueofliberty:
Tips
from all over the internet
Ferry Ticket Tips
Book ferry tickets in advance for cheaper fares, especially for early morning rides. :ticket:
Island Exploration
Allow ample time for a slow-paced exploration to truly appreciate the island's charm. :walking:
Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning photos of the unique architecture and scenic landscapes. :camerawithflash:
Garden Views
Don't miss Haoyue Garden for great views and a photo with Zheng Chenggong's statue. :statueofliberty:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Gulangyu Island for its unique historical architecture and charming, pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. The short ferry ride is convenient, and many enjoy the scenic beauty and relaxed pace. Some find the island can get crowded, and certain attractions may have entrance fees.
"If you visit Xiamen, you must arrange a trip to Gulangyu, take a ferry just 10min. Very convenient. CNY 50 if you missed morning ferry. The earlier you go, cheapest price for tourism is CNY 35. Nice building inside the island."
Seeker Star
"Nice ferry ride amidst heavy security check."
Ai Fu CHIN
"Came with a tour. There’s beaches, well maintained mansions/ restaurants/ streets. Worth to take a tour there"
胡佳恩Jia En
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Gulangyu Island is by taking a short ferry ride from Xiamen. Ferries depart frequently from the Xiamen Ferry Terminal. The journey typically takes about 10 minutes. Some travelers mention heavy security checks before boarding the ferry.
Ferries to Gulangyu Island operate frequently throughout the day. It's advisable to check the latest schedule upon arrival or online, as timings can vary. Early morning ferries are often the cheapest.
Ferry prices can vary, with early morning ferries generally being the most affordable, around CNY 35. Missed morning ferries might cost around CNY 50. It's best to confirm current pricing at the terminal.
No, private vehicles are not allowed on Gulangyu Island. It is a pedestrian-only island, which contributes to its peaceful atmosphere.
Yes, many visitors opt for tours to explore Gulangyu Island. Tours can provide a structured way to see the main attractions, including beaches and historic mansions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the island itself is generally accessible, some specific attractions within Gulangyu Island may require separate entrance fees. The ferry ticket is the primary cost for access.
Gulangyu Island is accessible throughout the day, with ferry services running from early morning until late evening. Specific attractions on the island may have their own operating hours.
Booking ferry tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot and potentially get better prices.
Early morning ferry rides are often the cheapest option. Keep an eye out for potential package deals if you plan to visit multiple attractions on the island.
Many visitors find a slow-paced, half-day tour to be ideal for exploring Gulangyu Island, allowing time for walking, photography, and enjoying the scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
Gulangyu Island offers numerous picturesque spots. The historic architecture, charming streets, and scenic viewpoints like Haoyue Garden are particularly photogenic.
Absolutely! The unique blend of architectural styles and the pedestrian-friendly nature of the island make it a fantastic location for street photography. 
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm equivalent, is great for capturing both landscapes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the charming narrow streets.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Early mornings also mean fewer crowds, making it easier to compose shots.
Themes include colonial architecture, charming alleyways, coastal views, and the iconic Zheng Chenggong statue at Haoyue Garden.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Gulangyu Island's Charm
Navigating Gulangyu is best done on foot, allowing you to discover hidden alleys, charming cafes, and boutique shops. The island is also known for its beautiful beaches, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling mainland.
Key attractions include the Sunlight Rock, Piano Museum, and various historic mansions. The island's car-free policy enhances its peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely stroll and photography.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking on its charming, winding paths. The Gulangyu Ferry Experience
Cost-saving tip: Opting for an early morning ferry can significantly reduce the ticket price, making it a more budget-friendly option.
While the ferry itself is a functional mode of transport, the views of the Xiamen coastline and the approaching island add to the overall charm of visiting Gulangyu.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit