Gulangyu Island, nestled off the coast of Xiamen in Fujian Province, has been attracting tourists for its gorgeous colonial architecture and authentic Chinese cultural heritage. With so many captivating sites and landmarks to see, mapping out a comprehensive tour plan has become essential to make the most of your time on the island. Here we present a well-crafted itinerary that will enable you to tick off all the must-visit places, learn about the fascinating history, and soak in the diverse culture. So, let’s dive into the journey of exploring the enchanting sights of Gulangyu.

Day 1: Discovering the rich cultural heritage

On the first day of your trip, make sure to begin the journey with a visit to the famous Gulangyu Piano Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of over 100 pianos from around the world. The exhibit also includes pianos that were once the favourite of renowned musicians like Sergei Rachmaninoff, Yundi Li, and Lang Lang. It is said that Gulangyu Island has the highest per capita ownership of pianos in China.

Next up, head to the Shuzhuang Garden, a sprawling garden that occupies more than 21,000 square meters of the island. The garden was built in 1931 by Lin Erjia, a wealthy Taiwanese businessman. It offers spectacular views of the surrounding sea and is dotted with picturesque pavilions, artificial hills, and rock formations. Don't miss the highlight of the garden, the 'Piano Island' – a small, rocky formation that exudes an enchanting charm.

Lastly, end the day by visiting the bustling Longtou Road Food Street, where you can try some of the authentic local delicacies like fish soup noodles, seafood rice, fried rice cakes, and more. The street is also dotted with stalls selling souvenirs, local handicrafts, and clothing.

Day 2: Exploring the historical landmarks

Start your second day with a visit to Sunlight Rock, the highest point of the island that offers some of the most panoramic views of Xiamen Harbour. Along the way, you'll come across the ancient Cannon Fort, a site that played an instrumental role in resisting foreign invasions of the island.

After visiting Sunlight Rock, make your way to the Gulangyu Catholic Church, a towering building that was built in 1913 by French missionaries. The church is adorned with intricate stained glass artwork and is an excellent example of Gothic colonial architecture. The church also houses an impressive pipe organ that was installed in 1932.

Next, immerse yourself in the rich history of Gulangyu by visiting the Museum of Gulangyu History and Culture, which showcases a collection of around 3,000 artefacts that exhibit the island's history, culture and customs.

Day 3: Relaxation and leisure activities

On the last day of your trip, take things at a more leisurely pace and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the island. Start your day with a visit to the Island Ring Road, a scenic walk that covers the entire island and takes about two and a half hours to complete. Along the way, enjoy the beautiful sights of colonial-era villas, green parks, and tranquil beaches.

Next, head to the beach and spend some time soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal clear waters of the sea. The island is home to several picturesque beaches like Xiamen Bank Beach, Neicuoao Beach, and Haiwan Beach.

Finally, end your trip with a visit to the Wanshi Botanical Garden, which houses various species of exotic plants spread over an area of around 4,000 hectares. The garden also offers plenty of leisure activities like cycling, boating, and picnicking, making it an ideal spot to relax and unwind.

In conclusion, Gulangyu Island is undoubtedly one of the most enticing destinations in China, where you can explore a beautiful blend of colonial-era architecture, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Follow our itinerary, and you'll have an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting to come back for more.