Xiamen, a coastal city in southeast China, boasts an alluring blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The private city highlights tour with Gulangyu Island promises an immersive experience, allowing visitors to uncover the charm of this vibrant destination. From the panoramic vistas of Sunlight Rock to the serene Shuzhuang Garden, the tour showcases Xiamen’s diverse attractions. Delving into the city’s spiritual side, the tour also includes a visit to the renowned South Putuo Temple, where visitors can explore the architectural marvels and gain insights into the local traditions. With an expert guide and a delightful local lunch, this comprehensive tour offers an enticing glimpse into the heart of Xiamen’s captivating allure.
Good To Know
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A private 8-hour city highlights tour of Xiamen, including hotel pickup/drop-off, ferry ride to Gulangyu Island, and visits to top attractions like Sunlight Rock and South Putuo Temple.
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Tour priced at $268 per person, with amenities like English-speaking guide, Chinese lunch, bottled water, and all entrance fees included.
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Highlights include panoramic views from Sunlight Rock, exploring Shuzhuang Garden and Piano Museum, and learning about Xiamen’s history at Hulishan Fortress.
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Tour not recommended for wheelchair users, low fitness individuals, or those over 70 years, and specific dietary requirements must be communicated at booking.
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Knowledgeable guides provide insights into Xiamen’s history and culture, with live guides available in multiple languages to ensure an informative experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing
According to the provided information, this private city highlights tour of Xiamen offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s renowned attractions.
Priced at $268 per person, the 8-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a ferry ride to Gulangyu Island, and visits to notable sites like Sunlight Rock, Shuzhuang Garden, the Piano Museum, South Putuo Temple, and Hulishan Fortress.
The tour provides an English-speaking guide, a Chinese lunch, bottled water, and all entrance fees. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they’ve the option to reserve now and pay later.
However, the tour may not be suitable for certain individuals due to mobility and age restrictions.
Tour Itinerary
The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in downtown Xiamen, where guests are then transported to the ferry terminal for the short ride over to the picturesque Gulangyu Island.
Once there, the tour explores:
- Sunlight Rock for panoramic views of the island
- Shuzhuang Garden and the Piano Museum
- South Putuo Temple, an impressive Tang Dynasty structure
- Hulishan Fortress, a 19th-century coastal defense site
After a local Chinese lunch, the tour concludes with a leisurely stroll along the Island Ring Road before returning to the hotel.
Inclusions and Amenities
The private city highlights tour of Xiamen includes a comprehensive package of amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a Chinese lunch, an English-speaking guide, bottled water, all entrance fees, and ferry transportation to Gulangyu Island. Participants can also expect the following:
| Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Transportation | Private transfers throughout the tour |
| Meals | Chinese lunch at a local restaurant |
| Guide | English-speaking guide |
| Essentials | Bottled water, entrance fees, ferry ticket |
With these amenities, travelers can focus on exploring the highlights of Xiamen without worrying about logistics.
Guidelines and Restrictions
This private city highlights tour of Xiamen isn’t suitable for all travelers. There are certain guidelines and restrictions that travelers should be aware of before booking.
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This tour isn’t recommended for wheelchair users, people with low fitness levels, or those over 70 years of age.
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Visitors are advised to bring weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour operates in all weather conditions.
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Pets, smoking, large luggage, and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed on the tour.
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Travelers should advise the tour operator of any specific dietary requirements at the time of booking, and provide their passport details as this is mandatory.
Additional Information
Live tour guides are available in English, French, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese for this private city highlights tour of Xiamen.
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so visitors should dress appropriately.
At the start of the tour, guests will meet their guide in the hotel lobby with a sign displaying their name. This ensures a seamless and personalized experience.
The tour covers the city’s top attractions, including Gulangyu Island, Sunlight Rock, Shuzhuang Garden, and more.
With a knowledgeable guide, travelers can learn about the history and culture of Xiamen while exploring the various sights.
Panoramic Views at Sunlight Rock
From the serene Sunlight Rock, visitors are treated to panoramic vistas of Xiamen’s picturesque coastline and the tranquil Gulangyu Island.
This vantage point offers a breathtaking perspective of the city’s natural beauty, allowing guests to fully enjoy the stunning landscapes.
Among the highlights are:
- Sweeping views of the sparkling azure waters of the Taiwan Strait
- Glimpses of the charming colonial architecture and lush greenery of Gulangyu
- The dramatic silhouette of Xiamen’s skyscrapers against the horizon
- A sense of peaceful contemplation amidst the gentle sea breezes
The Sunlight Rock excursion provides a serene and visually captivating introduction to the wonders of Xiamen and its surrounding islands.
Shuzhuang Garden and Piano Museum
After exploring the panoramic vistas of Sunlight Rock, the tour continues to the enchanting Shuzhuang Garden. This tranquil oasis features a harmonious blend of traditional Chinese architecture and lush natural landscapes. Visitors can stroll through the meticulously manicured grounds, admiring the elegant pavilions, ponds, and bridges.
| Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Piano Museum | Showcasing a collection of antique pianos, the museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the history and evolution of this iconic musical instrument. |
| Scenic Vistas | From the garden’s elevated viewpoints, guests can enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding Gulangyu Island and the sparkling waters of the East China Sea. |
| Tranquil Atmosphere | The serene ambiance of Shuzhuang Garden offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Xiamen. |
South Putuo Temple and Hulishan Fortress
Next, the tour takes visitors to the venerable South Putuo Temple, a revered Buddhist sanctuary dating back to the Tang Dynasty.
The temple’s ornate architecture and tranquil atmosphere offer a glimpse into Xiamen’s spiritual heritage.
Afterward, the group will explore the historic Hulishan Fortress, constructed in 1891 to defend the city’s coastline.
Highlights include:
- Panoramic views of the harbor from the fortress walls
- Intricate stone carvings and inscriptions
- Well-preserved cannon platforms and military structures
- Informative displays on the fortress’ role in Xiamen’s history
From the fortress, the tour continues with a leisurely stroll along the scenic Island Ring Road, providing ample opportunities to soak in the island’s unique ambiance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary Based on My Preferences?
Yes, the tour can be customized based on your preferences. You can discuss your specific interests with the tour operator and they’ll work with you to personalize the itinerary to suit your needs.
Is There a Discounted Rate for Children or Seniors?
There is no mention of a discounted rate for children or seniors in the tour overview. The price is stated as $268.00 per person, with no indication of age-based pricing adjustments.
Are There Any Special Requirements for the Ferry to Gulangyu Island?
There are no special requirements for the ferry to Gulangyu Island. Travelers just need to present their passport details when booking and bring weather-appropriate clothing. The ferry fee is included in the tour price.
Can the Tour Be Extended or Shortened Based on My Schedule?
The tour duration can be adjusted based on the traveler’s schedule. While the standard tour is 8 hours, the operator allows for flexibility to extend or shorten the itinerary to accommodate the traveler’s needs and availability.
Are There Any Activities or Sights Not Included in the Standard Tour?
Yes, there are additional activities and sights that can be added to the standard tour. Guests can customize the itinerary to visit places like a tea plantation, ceramic workshops, or historical museums for an additional cost and duration.
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The Sum Up
This private Xiamen city highlights tour provides an immersive experience, showcasing the destination’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors can admire panoramic views from Sunlight Rock, explore the charming Shuzhuang Garden and Piano Museum, and visit the historic South Putuo Temple and Hulishan Fortress. With hotel pickup, a scenic ferry ride, and an English-speaking guide, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the enchanting city of Xiamen.