12 Must-Visit Attractions in Xiamen with Top Restaurants and Hotels [Updated 2025]

Discover 12 Xiamen Attractions with Cultural and Architectural Highlights, Natural Scenic Spots, Local Restaurants, and Popular Hotels.
Traveloka TH
29 May 2025 - 8 min read

Xiamen, a coastal city in southeast China, is full of unique attractions blending culture, architecture, and a lifestyle that harmoniously combines traditional Chinese and Western influences. As a historically important trading port, Xiamen features colonial zones with European-style buildings nestled among local residences, creating a distinctive atmosphere you won’t find in other Chinese cities. Beyond its cultural beauty, Xiamen is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its coastal landscape, surrounding islands, and mountains, the city offers a wide range of activities suitable for both relaxation and adventure. Explore and update your list of must-visit scenic spots in Xiamen today!

Top Xiamen Attractions Updated 2025

1. Gulangyu Island

เกาะกู่ลั่งอวี่ (Gulangyu Island)

Gulangyu Island is one of Xiamen’s most famous attractions, known for its peaceful atmosphere, car-free streets, and charming colonial-style houses. This small island is a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its cultural and historical significance. Visitors can explore the Music Museum, Piano Museum, and various scenic viewpoints along the coast. Perfect for couples, families, or travelers seeking a quiet getaway. 📍 Google Maps

2. Xiamen Botanical Garden

สวนพฤกษศาสตร์เซียะเหมิน (Xiamen Botanical Garden)

Located in the heart of the city, Xiamen Botanical Garden is a top spot for nature lovers. Home to over 6,000 plant species including desert, tropical, and rare plants, the garden offers scenic walking paths among rocks and streams. Ideal for light hiking or a peaceful stroll. 📍 Google Maps

3. Nanputuo Temple

วัดหนานผู่โถว (Nanputuo Temple)

Nanputuo Temple, a historic Buddhist temple dating back to the Tang Dynasty, is a spiritual center of Xiamen. Featuring traditional Chinese architecture, serene lotus ponds, and a panoramic city view from the hills behind the temple, it’s both a cultural landmark and a prime photo spot. 📍 Google Maps

4. Huli Mountain Fortress

Huli Mountain Fortress is a historic military site showcasing Xiamen’s defense during the late Qing Dynasty. Highlights include the largest German cannon in the world, underground tunnels, and an ancient weapons museum. Great for families seeking educational and interactive experiences. 📍 Google Maps

5. Xiamen University

Renowned as one of China’s most beautiful campuses, Xiamen University sits near the sea and Nanputuo Temple. The architecture blends traditional Chinese and Western styles, with scenic gardens, lakes, and tree-lined paths. Open to tourists during select hours, perfect for strolling, photography, and experiencing modern Chinese campus culture. 📍 Google Maps

6. Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street

Zhongshan Road is Xiamen’s vibrant shopping and street food hub. Lined with colonial-style buildings, local shops, cafes, and famous street foods like oyster omelets and fried dumplings, the area comes alive in the evening. Ideal for shopping, dining, and experiencing local urban life. 📍 Google Maps

7. Zeng Cuo An Village

This historic fishing village has been transformed into a trendy tourist destination, blending traditional life with contemporary arts and culture. Featuring seafood restaurants, chic cafes, handmade craft shops, and boutique hostels, it’s perfect for photography enthusiasts and visitors seeking a hip, coastal vibe. 📍 Google Maps

8. Shuzhuang Garden

สวนซู่จวง (Shuzhuang Garden)

Located on Gulangyu Island, Shuzhuang Garden is a classical Chinese garden formerly owned by a local merchant. It harmoniously blends architecture with the natural seaside landscape. Key highlights include stone bridges, artificial lakes, and scenic viewpoints. A popular photography spot for Xiamen travelers. 📍 Google Maps

9. Xiamen Fantawild Dreamland

Xiamen Fantawild Dreamland is a large theme park suitable for all ages, especially families. The park features thrilling rides, virtual adventure zones, and educational areas focusing on Chinese science and culture. Highlights include 4D attractions, roller coasters, and live character shows, offering a perfect mix of fun, learning, and cutting-edge technology. 📍 Google Maps

10. Xiamen Seashore Sightseeing Tower

The Xiamen Seashore Sightseeing Tower is a newly opened coastal observation tower that offers panoramic views of the sea, city, and harbor. The modern design includes a glass elevator taking visitors up to a 360-degree viewing platform. Ideal for sunrise or sunset viewing, the tower also has a café and seating areas for relaxation. 📍 Google Maps

11. Fujian Tulou

บ้านดินฝูเจี้ยน (Fujian Tulou)

Fujian Tulou are large earthen buildings unique to Fujian Province, historically housing Hakka communities. Most tulou are circular or square with thick earthen walls, built for defense against enemies and natural hazards. These massive structures can accommodate dozens to hundreds of residents, reflecting strong community ties. Recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites, the tulou are an essential cultural attraction for Xiamen and Fujian travelers. 📍 Google Maps

12. Huli Mountain Beach

Huli Mountain Beach is a popular coastal spot with fine sand, clear blue waters, and a peaceful atmosphere. Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or evening strolls along the shore, the beach also offers water activities such as kayaking and beach volleyball, making it an ideal place for relaxation and fun. 📍 Google Maps

Local Restaurants in Xiamen

浮屿大同鸭肉粥 (Fu Yu Da Tong Duck Porridge)

Fu Yu Da Tong Duck Porridge is a famous local eatery in Xiamen, renowned for its aromatic and flavorful duck porridge. The tender duck meat is slow-cooked with rice, offal, and traditional spices, creating a rich, unique taste found only in Fujian, especially Xiamen. The simple, cozy atmosphere and consistently full tables reflect its popularity among locals. 📍 Google Maps

佳丽海鲜大酒楼 (Jia Li Seafood Restaurant)

Jia Li Seafood Restaurant is one of Xiamen’s most luxurious seafood venues, serving premium fresh seafood and traditional Cantonese dishes. The menu offers a wide variety including steamed fish, lobster, Peking duck, and dim sum. The spacious interior is perfect for large gatherings or special celebrations, with attentive service ensuring a memorable dining experience. 🕒 Opening Hours: 10:00–14:00, 17:30–21:30 📍 Google Maps

陈佳甜点 (Chen Jia Tian Dian)

Chen Jia Tian Dian is a famous dessert shop in Xiamen, specializing in local Fujian sweets. Signature dishes include fried taro balls (炸芋泥), made from steamed and mashed taro, crispy outside and soft inside, and other traditional treats like black glutinous rice cake (乌米饭) and tofu pudding (豆腐花). The clean and friendly atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to relax after a day of sightseeing. 🕒 Opening Hours: 10:00–23:00 📍 Google Maps

Hotels in Xiamen

Langham Place Xiamen

โรงแรมเซียะเหมิน
โรงแรมเซียะเหมิน
โรงแรมเซียะเหมิน
โรงแรมเซียะเหมิน
โรงแรมเซียะเหมิน

Suitable for: Business travelers, couples, luxury seekers, city-center stay enthusiasts

Langham Place Xiamen is a 5-star luxury hotel conveniently located near Wanda Plaza and the metro station, offering easy access to shopping centers and top Xiamen attractions. The modern-style rooms feature full amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and diverse dining options. Guests can enjoy premium services and a sophisticated, luxurious atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure stays in the heart of the city.

China

Langham Place Xiamen

9.1/10

Huli Qu

See Price

ANDAZ XIAMEN, BY HYATT

โรงแรมเซียะเหมิน
โรงแรมเซียะเหมิน
โรงแรมเซียะเหมิน
โรงแรมเซียะเหมิน
โรงแรมเซียะเหมิน

Perfect for: content creators, glam seekers, design lovers, and couples. Andaz Xiamen a luxury design hotel under the Hyatt brand, featuring modern Chinese-inspired architecture. Conveniently located near Zhongshan Park and the bustling Rooma Center shopping district, the hotel offers spacious contemporary rooms, a fitness center, swimming pool, and a stylish rooftop bar. With its serene yet modern atmosphere, it’s the ideal stay for travelers looking for comfort, style, and inspiration in Xiamen.

China

ANDAZ XIAMEN, BY HYATT

Huli Qu

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Swiss Grand Xiamen

โรงแรมเซียะเหมิน
โรงแรมเซียะเหมิน
โรงแรมเซียะเหมิน
โรงแรมเซียะเหมิน
โรงแรมเซียะเหมิน

Perfect for: families, couples, laid-back travelers, and nature view lovers. Swiss Grand Xiamen nestled along the seaside in Siming District, this luxury hotel offers breathtaking panoramic views of Gulangyu Island. Guests can enjoy spacious sea-view rooms with full amenities, a tranquil atmosphere, and easy access to Zhongshan Pedestrian Street and the Gulangyu ferry terminal making it an ideal stay for relaxation and convenience in Xiamen.

China

Swiss Grand Xiamen

9.0/10

Siming Qu

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Getting from Bangkok to Xiamen (XMN)

You can fly from Bangkok, Thailand, to Xiamen, China, with both nonstop and connecting options. All flights arrive at Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN).

1. Nonstop flights

Xiamen Airlines operates direct flights from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK) to Xiamen (XMN), taking about 3 hours 20 minutes.

2. Connecting flights

If the nonstop schedule doesn’t fit, choose 1-stop itineraries with carriers like Air China, China Eastern, and Hainan Airlines, connecting via major hubs such as Beijing, Guangzhou, Kunming, or Shanghai. Got extra time? Plan a mini stopover in one of these cities before continuing to XMN.

Discover flight with Traveloka

Tue, 2 Sep 2025

Sichuan Airlines

Bangkok (BKK) to Xiamen (XMN)

Start from THB 3,311.00

Sat, 6 Sep 2025

Philippine Airlines

Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Xiamen (XMN)

Start from THB 3,577.31

Thu, 4 Sep 2025

Hainan Airlines

Hangzhou (HGH) to Xiamen (XMN)

Start from THB 5,009.62

Handy Tips to Make Your Xiamen Trip Even Smoother!

Amap Google Maps doesn’t work well in China—some locations are missing or inaccurately pinned. Instead, download Amap, a Chinese navigation app that also supports English and doesn’t require a Chinese phone number. Perfect for travelers.
Alipay Besides cash, Alipay is widely used across China for quick QR code payments—whether it’s restaurants, shopping, museum tickets, or even online purchases.
DiDi The go-to ride-hailing app in China, working much like Grab or Uber. Use it to book taxis easily and safely.
Bus365 Ideal for public transport users. Check bus stops, timetables, and even book intercity bus tickets to destinations like Beijing, Chongqing, Shanghai, and Chengdu.
AccuWeather Stay updated with real-time weather forecasts, hourly and daily updates, plus alerts for severe weather—essential for planning your days in Xiamen.

In This Article

• Top Xiamen Attractions Updated 2025
• 1. Gulangyu Island
• 2. Xiamen Botanical Garden
• 3. Nanputuo Temple
• 4. Huli Mountain Fortress
• 5. Xiamen University
• 6. Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street
• 7. Zeng Cuo An Village
• 8. Shuzhuang Garden
• 9. Xiamen Fantawild Dreamland
• 10. Xiamen Seashore Sightseeing Tower
• 11. Fujian Tulou
• 12. Huli Mountain Beach
• Local Restaurants in Xiamen
• 浮屿大同鸭肉粥 (Fu Yu Da Tong Duck Porridge)
• 佳丽海鲜大酒楼 (Jia Li Seafood Restaurant)
• 陈佳甜点 (Chen Jia Tian Dian)
• Hotels in Xiamen
• Langham Place Xiamen
• ANDAZ XIAMEN, BY HYATT
• Swiss Grand Xiamen
• Getting from Bangkok to Xiamen (XMN)
• 1. Nonstop flights
• 2. Connecting flights
• Handy Tips to Make Your Xiamen Trip Even Smoother!

Flights Featured in This Article

Tue, 2 Sep 2025
Sichuan Airlines
Bangkok (BKK) to Xiamen (XMN)
Start from THB 3,311.00
Book Now
Sat, 6 Sep 2025
Philippine Airlines
Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Xiamen (XMN)
Start from THB 3,577.31
Book Now
Thu, 4 Sep 2025
Hainan Airlines
Hangzhou (HGH) to Xiamen (XMN)
Start from THB 5,009.62
Book Now

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