Xiamen: Gulangyu, the Enchanting ‘Garden on the Sea’

If fairytales were set on islands, Gulangyu would be the perfect stage—a tiny, car-free paradise where history, nature, and art intertwine. Often called the ‘Garden on the Sea,’ this charming island off the coast of Xiamen is a dreamland of cobblestone paths, colonial mansions, and an ever-present melody of piano music drifting through the breeze. With its unique mix of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and artistic soul, Gulangyu is a must-visit for anyone seeking a slice of seaside enchantment.

A Journey into Gulangyu’s Allure

What makes Gulangyu so special? Is it the whispering waves that caress its rocky shores? The grand old villas with stories etched into their walls? The vibrant gardens blooming year-round? Or perhaps it’s the way music seems to float effortlessly through the island, as if the very air hums a tune? Whatever it is, Gulangyu is pure magic, waiting to be unraveled.

Sunlight Rock: Touch the Sky

Rising above the island like a natural lighthouse, Sunlight Rock (Riguangyan) is Gulangyu’s highest point and most famous landmark. A short but scenic climb rewards visitors with a breathtaking panoramic view of the island’s rooftops, the Xiamen skyline, and the endless blue sea beyond. Here, history and nature converge—standing atop the rock, one can almost hear the echoes of Ming Dynasty hero Koxinga, who once gazed out over these waters with a warrior’s determination.

Shuzhuang Garden: A Poetic Seaside Retreat

Step into a living painting at Shuzhuang Garden, a masterpiece of landscape design where art and nature exist in perfect harmony. Originally a private estate, this elegant garden is a world of meandering bridges, moon gates, and lotus-filled ponds, all set against the backdrop of the sea. The garden plays with perspective—where pathways and pools create an illusion of infinite space, much like a Chinese ink painting brought to life.

Piano Museum: The Island’s Musical Heartbeat

Gulangyu isn’t called ‘The Island of Pianos’ for nothing. With a deep-rooted love for classical music, the island is home to the Piano Museum, a treasure trove of over 100 antique pianos from around the world. Here, visitors can marvel at exquisitely crafted instruments, from elegant 19th-century grand pianos to uniquely designed harpsichords. As music spills from open windows across the island, it’s easy to feel like Gulangyu itself is composing a symphony of nostalgia and romance.

Lost in Gulangyu’s Timeless Streets

Part of Gulangyu’s charm lies in its winding streets, where vintage mansions, quaint cafés, and artisan boutiques create a dreamlike atmosphere. Many of the island’s buildings reflect a blend of European and Southeast Asian architectural styles, remnants of its history as an international settlement. As visitors wander through these picturesque alleys, they may stumble upon hidden courtyards draped in bougainvillea, boutique shops offering handmade crafts and local delicacies, charming teahouses where time slows to a gentle sip, and street musicians filling the air with soft melodies. No itinerary is needed here—just let curiosity lead the way.

Unforgettable Experiences on Gulangyu

Savor Gulangyu’s flavors with a taste of its famous oyster omelets, peanut soup, and crispy fish skin snacks before heading to the beach to watch the sunset paint the sky in shades of pink as the waves whisper secrets only the sea knows. Step into history at Christ Church, a serene 19th-century chapel where faith and time intertwine, then find tranquility in Yu Garden, a peaceful retreat adorned with koi ponds and ancient trees.

Beyond Gulangyu: Xiamen’s Highlights

While Gulangyu is a world of its own, the rest of Xiamen offers even more adventures:

South Putuo Temple

A breathtaking Buddhist temple nestled against Wulao Mountain, known for its intricate carvings and tranquil atmosphere.

Hulishan Fortress

History buffs will love this 19th-century stronghold, home to one of the world’s largest coastal cannons.

Zengcuo’an Village

Once a fishing village, now a vibrant artsy enclave filled with street food and oceanfront cafés.

Xiamen University

Often called China’s most beautiful university, this campus blends history and nature, with picturesque lakes and grand archways.

Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster

A short trip from Xiamen, these round Hakka earth buildings are an architectural wonder.

Gulangyu: A Love Song by the Sea

Gulangyu is not just an island; it’s a melody, a dream, a story waiting to be told. Whether you’re exploring its historic streets, listening to the gentle chords of a piano, or simply watching the waves roll in, you’ll feel its magic seep into your soul. And when you leave, you’ll carry a little bit of its music with you—because some places, like Gulangyu, never really let you go.