Xiamen, a coastal city, attracts visitors year-round with its pleasant climate, palm-lined waterfront promenades, and proximity to the impressive Tulou earthen roundhouses of the Hakka. Located in the southeastern province of Fujian, the port city has repeatedly been recognized as the cleanest city in China due to its particularly good air quality.
European traders used Xiamen as a trading port as early as the 16th century, and by the mid-19th century, it became the most important export port for tea. One of China’s most valuable teas comes from the nearby Wuyi Mountains. Colonial architecture from this period still characterizes the cityscape today, making parts of Xiamen appear remarkably European. This is especially true for the small island of Gulangyu. Once, Americans and Europeans built their villas here, followed by Japanese and wealthy Chinese. The car-free island is a picturesque gem with beautiful parks and inviting beaches.
Just a three-hour bus ride away, the famous roundhouses of the Hakka can be discovered in Yongding County. These impressive earthen castles were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2008. The Tulou are three to five-story residential fortresses that can house up to 1,000 people, providing protection against enemies and natural disasters.
Xiamen offers its guests hotels of all categories, some with spectacular modern architecture. In Yongding County, you can stay with views of the Tulou buildings. The area is also known for its hot springs, with numerous spa hotels offering relaxation.
