Escape into the exotic ‘Garden on the sea’ and witness the stunning set of hills and deep blue waves hugging the fine stretch of white sandy shores. Gulang Yu which is separated from the main island by the five hundred meter wide river of Egret was originally named Yuan Zhou Zi and was renamed to Gulang which means ‘drum waves’ ,during the Ming Dynasty. It is said that the island got its name due to the drum like sound the waves make when it hits the holes in the southwestern reefs.
Popularly known due to its varied architecture, ancient remnants and spectacular natural beauty, the island is listed as one of the most scenic spots in the country. A ferry ride of just five minutes is all it takes to reach this island which is inhabited by about 20,000 people. The island itself covers an area of 1.78 sq km and is free of vehicles, making it a quiet and serene destination.
Some of the attractions in this islet include the Sunlight Rock located in the south central part of the island. During sun rise the rocks of the Sunlight Temple are illuminated by its light, hence the name. Visitors can also see the expressive inscriptions made by poets over four hundred years back. Moreover, the Old Summer Cave is the perfect spot which offers a fantastic panorama of Xiamen city. In addition to this attractive area, you can also discover the Shuzhuang Garden in the south side of the island which is a clever work of architecture. It creates a surreal sense of the surrounding which is sure to captivate your attention.
Take a leisure walk among this interesting islet and hear the sound of music as it is home to China’s only piano museum nicknaming it “The Town of Pianos”. Likewise, there is a museum dedicated to Koxinga Haidi Shijie, Marine world, a subtropical garden which contains overseas Chineses plants and the Xiamen Museum previously known as the Eight Diagrams Tower.
If you fancy a comfortable Xiamen hotel, experience a hospitable stay at Xiamen luxury hotels. Enjoy a breathtaking view and be only walking distance away from the Gulang Yu Island ferry by lodging at the fabulous Millenium Harbourview Hotel Xiamen.
