Xiamen Travel Guide China Tourism

Xiamen Travel Guide, China. Xiamen History. Tourism. Full of colonial charm and coastal appeal, the city of Xiamen is one of the most alluring tourist destinations in the Fujian province and lies on the east coast of China. Visitors have been staying in Xiamen for literally hundreds of years and the city still contains much of its captivating character from years gone by, particularly around the scenic waterfront area. Close to Xiamen, many visitors enjoy a day trip to the small neighbouring island of Gulangyu, which is brimming with picturesque seaside gardens, a maze of peaceful cobbled lanes, cable car rides, statues, gardens and many excellent views. Also nearby is a further island, which contains a town of the same name (Xiamen) and is linked to the city of Xiamen by a causeway. The city itself is very much a mix of old and new, with historic architecture, winding alleyways and parklands being particularly centred around the western region and around the waterfront. Elsewhere in the city you will find banks, markets, temples, the Xiamen University and also the World trade centre, complete with its own cinema. Various Internet cafes are located around the harbour area and offer an easy way to email friends are relatives during your stay. For up-to-the minute tourism advice, information about where to find the best Internet cafes, fold-up English-language maps and information about Xiamen's top tourist attractions, the China International Travel Services (CITS) can be found along Hexiang Xilu, close to Yundang Lake. Many appealing tourist attractions lie within the city of Xiamen. When visiting, look out for the beaches with many beautiful golden stretches around the coastline; Huli Hill Fort - an unusual fortress built with clay and sticky rice, amongst other building materials; Xiamen's Underwater Sea World with literally thousands of marine creatures and an underwater glass tunnel; White Deer Cave an interesting cave temple with two large animal statues at the entrance; Xiamen Water Park - a great way to cool down on a hot day, with slides and pools for everyone; and the Zhongshan Park and Zoo a large recreational space, complete with a boating lake and a large zoo, with lots of animal information.