Putian & Xiamen 3-Day Exploration: Island Retreats & Cultural Gems

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by Henry

April 21, 2024 · 2 min read

Putian Xiamen 3 Days Itinerary

Embark on a 3-day journey through the enchanting cities of Putian and Xiamen, where natural beauty and cultural wonders await. Begin your adventure on the tranquil shores of Gulangyu Island, a car-free haven where you can immerse yourself in a full day of exploration, enjoying the island's serene atmosphere and colonial architecture. Next, soar above the city with a thrilling ride on the Zhonggu Cableway, offering panoramic views of Xiamen's landscape. Day two invites you to wander through the lush greenery of Xiamen Botanical Garden, a peaceful retreat that promises a day filled with nature's finest displays. Just a stone's throw away, Xiamen University beckons with its scholarly charm and picturesque campus, perfect for a brief visit to one of China's most beautiful educational institutions. The final day takes you to the sacred shores of Meizhou Island, a spiritual sanctuary and a full day's exploration of its rich cultural heritage. Conclude your trip with a visit to the Jiulihu Scenic Area in Putian, where you can spend a couple of hours basking in the scenic beauty and tranquility before your journey comes to an end. With this itinerary, uncover the dual delights of Putian and Xiamen, where every moment is a step into a world of enchanting experiences.

ColumbusXiamen
From £1005
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Day 1: Unveiling the Charms of Xiamen - A Day on Gulangyu Island and Sky-High Views

1

Gulangyu Island

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Kickstart your Xiamen adventure with a full day immersed in the enchanting atmosphere of Gulangyu Island. As the first stop in your itinerary, this pedestrian-only island promises a serene escape from the bustling city life. Stroll through its winding alleys, admire the unique blend of colonial architecture, and let the melodies of piano music guide you through this UNESCO World Heritage site. With a day to explore, you'll have ample time to uncover the island's rich cultural tapestry, savor local delicacies, and bask in the tranquility of its sun-dappled gardens.

Attraction Info

  • Gulangyu, Siming District, Xiamen City
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
  • Open 24 hours

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Ocean View Restaurant
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Jiang Mu Ya A Qiang Jian Xie·Xin A Qiang Hai Xian Te Se Cai( Zhong Shan Lu Dian)
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2

Zhonggu Cableway

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After a day of leisurely exploration on Gulangyu, elevate your Xiamen experience with a visit to the Zhonggu Cableway. Located just a short distance from the island, this cable car ropeway offers a thrilling ascent with panoramic views of the cityscape below. During your one-hour stay, you'll glide over the urban landscape, capturing the essence of Xiamen from a bird's-eye perspective. It's the perfect way to conclude your first day, as the setting sun casts a golden hue over the city, promising more adventures to come.

Attraction Info

  • No. 25-110, Huyuan Road, Siming District, Xiamen
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-1.5 hour
  • Open from 8:30am-5:30pm;Closed during New Year's Eve

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Jinjia Harbor Seafood Food Stall (Zhongshan Road Branch)
Jinjia Harbor Seafood Food Stall (Zhongshan Road Branch)
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Ocean View Restaurant
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4.6/5 · 793 reviews
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Jiang Mu Ya A Qiang Jian Xie·Xin A Qiang Hai Xian Te Se Cai( Zhong Shan Lu Dian)
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cceveryday Shimao Strait Building
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ASHORE TO KULANGSU
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Cong Hui Tong An Restaurant( Dayuan Road Branch)
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4.4/5 · 105 reviews
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Where to Stay Tonight

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Zhongshan Road Area
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|0.31km from city center

Day 2: Exploring the Natural and Academic Charms of Xiamen

1

Xiamen Botanical Garden

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Kickstart your second day with a serene stroll through the lush landscapes of Xiamen Botanical Garden, a verdant oasis nestled at No. 25, Huyuan Road, Siming District. As the first stop of the day, this botanical wonder offers a full day's immersion in nature's splendor. With its diverse collection of flora, meticulously designed gardens, and tranquil walkways, the Xiamen Botanical Garden is a perfect blend of horticultural artistry and natural beauty. It's an ideal spot to refresh your senses and prepare for the intellectual inspiration that follows.

Attraction Info

  • No. 25, Huyuan Road, Siming District, Xiamen
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
  • Open from 10/08-04/30,6:30am-5:30pm;Open from 05/01-10/07,6:30am-6:00pm,Rainforest World Fog Forest: October 8th to April 30th of the following year: 9:00-11:00, 14:00-16:00. May 1st to October 7th: 9:30-11:30 14:30—16:30

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Jinjia Harbor Seafood Food Stall (Zhongshan Road Branch)
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Ocean View Restaurant
Ocean View Restaurant
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cceveryday Shimao Strait Building
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2

Xiamen University

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After basking in the botanical bliss, shift gears to the scholarly ambiance of Xiamen University. Just a short journey from the gardens, this prestigious institution, located at No. 422 Siming South Road, Siming District, is renowned for its rich educational heritage and stunning campus. Spend an hour exploring the architectural marvels and academic atmosphere that make Xiamen University a beacon of learning and culture. Its features are not just academic but also a testament to the city's dedication to fostering a vibrant educational environment.

Attraction Info

  • No. 422 Siming South Road, Siming District, Xiamen City
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open 24 hours

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

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Jinjia Harbor Seafood Food Stall (Zhongshan Road Branch)
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Ocean View Restaurant
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cceveryday Shimao Strait Building
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Where to Stay Tonight

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|0.39km from city center

Day 3: Divine Island Retreat and Scenic Splendors

1

Meizhou Island

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Starting the final day of our Putian Xiamen journey, Meizhou Island beckons as a serene sanctuary, perfect for a day-long exploration. Nestled within Xiuyu district of Putian, this island is not just a scenic marvel but also a spiritual haven, famed for its association with the goddess Mazu. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the island's beaches, delve into the rich cultural tapestry at the Mazu Temple, and savor the fresh seafood that's a staple of the local cuisine. Meizhou Island offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot to reflect on the memories made during this trip.

Attraction Info

  • Meizhou Island, Xiuyu, Putian, China
  • Suggested tour duration: 1 day
  • Open from 7:00am-9:00pm,Ferry sailing time Daylight Saving Time (April 16 to October 15) 1. Luxury passenger ship The first flight in Meizhou is at 7:00 and the last flight is at 17:40; The first class of Wenjia is at 7:20 and the last class is at 18:00; There are buses every 20 minutes. 2. Night flights: One flight each at 19:00, 20:00 and 21:00. Winter time (October 16th to April 15th of the following year) 1. Luxury passenger ship The first flight in Meizhou is at 7:00 and the last flight is at 17:00; The first class of Wenjia is at 7:20 and the last class is at 17:20; There are buses every 20 minutes. 2. Night flights: There is one departure each at 18:00, 19:00 and 20:00. If the flight cannot sail on time due to weather reasons, ship maintenance, emergency evacuation, etc., the on-site dispatch shall prevail.

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2

Jiulihu Scenic Area

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As the afternoon unfolds, the Jiulihu Scenic Area awaits to enchant you with its verdant landscapes and peaceful ambiance. A mere two-hour stay at this picturesque location in Xianyou, Putian, will provide a refreshing escape into nature. The scenic area is a tapestry of lush greenery, serene lakes, and traditional architecture, offering a glimpse into Fujian's rural beauty. It's the perfect locale to unwind and capture some stunning photographs before concluding your three-day adventure in the heart of Fujian.

Attraction Info

  • Xianyou, Putian, Fujian, China
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
  • Open from 8:00am-5:30pm

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Where to Stay Tonight

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* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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Putian Xiamen 3 Days Itinerary