5-Day Xiamen Tour Package From Seaside Streets to Earth Building Wonders

Summary

Day1: Xiamen Arrival
Day2: Gulangyu Island
Day3: Xiamen-Nanjing County: Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster, Ta'xia Village
Day4: Yun Shui Yao Ancient Town
Day5: Xiamen Departure

Day1 Xiamen Arrival

Welcome to Xiamen! Upon your arrival, our friendly guide will be waiting for you at the designated meeting point, holding a sign that reads "Your Way Holiday", ready to welcome you and assist with your private transfer to the hotel. After check-in, you’ll have free time to explore the lively Zhongshan Pedestrian Street, where you can sample a variety of delicious local snacks and experience the city's vibrant atmosphere. If you're a fan of the sea, we also offer optional scenic cruises or fishing trips to fully appreciate Xiamen’s beautiful coastal scenery (available at an additional cost, approx. 3 hours).

Day2 Gulangyu Island

Today, you’ll spend the entire day immersed in the charm and history of Gulangyu Island, one of Xiamen’s most beloved destinations and a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Known for its serene atmosphere, colonial architecture, and blend of Eastern and Western cultures, Gulangyu is a pedestrian-only island that feels like a step back in time. Accompanied by our professional English-speaking guide, you’ll enjoy a leisurely exploration of its winding lanes, leafy boulevards, and coastal scenery, all while learning about the island’s unique past as an international settlement and cultural crossroads.

The tour begins with a visit to the beautifully designed Shuzhuang Garden, a former private villa that now serves as a public garden showcasing the finest elements of classical Chinese landscaping. What makes this garden truly special is how it cleverly integrates natural coastal scenery with traditional garden aesthetics—winding paths, pavilions, lotus ponds, and hidden rockeries are all arranged to create a feeling of discovery and peacefulness. As you stroll through the garden, take in the sound of waves in the distance and the intricate details of its architecture, which reflect both local style and southern Fujian elegance.

Next, you’ll explore the nearby Piano Museum, nestled within Shuzhuang Garden. This museum houses a fascinating collection of over 70 antique pianos from around the world, some dating back to the 18th century. Many were once owned by famous musicians, collectors, or expatriate families who lived on the island. As you walk through the halls, you’ll encounter pianos of unusual shapes, rare designs, and unique craftsmanship that reflect a rich musical heritage. Whether you’re a classical music lover or simply curious about musical instruments, this museum offers an enjoyable and educational experience for all ages.

Around midday, take a break and enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant on the island. Gulangyu is famous for its diverse snacks and seafood, so you’ll have a chance to sample some authentic local flavors. We highly recommend trying seafood noodles, a signature Xiamen dish made with hand-pulled noodles and fresh shrimp, squid, and clams in a savory broth. Another must-try is peanut soup, a creamy, smooth dessert-like dish that blends boiled peanuts with a lightly sweetened base—simple yet deeply satisfying. Your guide can offer more recommendations based on your taste preferences, and help you order like a local.

In the afternoon, for a more immersive cultural experience, you’ll take part in a Nyonya makeup and costume session. The Nyonya (or Peranakan) style blends elements of Southern Chinese and Southeast Asian fashion, particularly evident in the use of embroidered gauze, colorful patterns, and delicate accessories. You’ll have the opportunity to dress up in traditional Nyonya-style outfits, complete with elegant makeup and accessories, perfect for capturing memorable photos. It’s a fun and interactive way to engage with the island’s multicultural roots and experience a touch of its vibrant heritage firsthand.

After your exploration and cultural activities, you’ll return to the mainland by ferry, filled with beautiful memories and a deeper appreciation of Gulangyu’s tranquil beauty and historical richness.

Day3 Xiamen-Nanjing County

This morning, after breakfast, your private driver and guide will pick you up for a scenic drive to Nanjing County, located in the southwest of Fujian Province. This area is renowned for its Tulou—large, circular or rectangular earth buildings built by the Hakka people, designed not only for living but also for defense. These structures have withstood centuries of wind and rain, showcasing both architectural ingenuity and the communal spirit of their inhabitants. As you travel through the picturesque countryside, you’ll notice how these ancient structures are harmoniously integrated into the mountainous landscape, reflecting a sustainable lifestyle that has endured for generations.

Your first stop is the iconic Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster, perhaps the most famous and photogenic of all. Viewed from above, this cluster resembles a “Four Dishes and One Soup” arrangement—four round tulous surrounding a square one in the center. Each building served as a multi-generational home, with thick earthen walls for insulation and defense. Your guide will lead you through the site, explaining the symbolism, construction techniques, and social functions of these remarkable buildings. You’ll also meet local residents and hear their stories, adding a personal dimension to your architectural journey.

Following your morning tour, enjoy a hearty lunch at a rustic local eatery tucked into the hills. Fujian’s rural cuisine emphasizes freshness and balance, and this is a great opportunity to taste authentic Hakka dishes. We recommend trying Buddha Jumps Over the Wall—a luxurious and aromatic soup made with a variety of premium ingredients such as sea cucumber, abalone, scallops, and Shaoxing wine, known for its rich layers of flavor and nourishing benefits. Another standout dish is Eight Treasures Crab Rice, a comforting blend of glutinous rice, crab meat, and a medley of savory toppings like mushrooms, chestnuts, and sausage, offering a hearty taste of traditional Fujian home-style cooking.

After lunch, continue to Yuchang Building, one of the tallest and oldest tulou still standing, built in the Yuan Dynasty over 700 years ago. This five-story structure is especially intriguing for its visible tilt—yet despite its precarious lean, the building remains solid and safe. As you step into the open-air atrium and ascend the wooden staircases, you’ll get a glimpse into the daily lives of the families who have lived here for centuries. The smoke-darkened kitchens, ancestral halls, and stacked balconies offer a fascinating look at how tradition and function come together in one cohesive space.

In the afternoon, you'll travel onward to Ta’xia Village, often referred to as the “Taichi Village” for its unique layout. A winding river meanders through the village in the shape of a Yin-Yang symbol, with round tulous placed strategically along its curves. As you stroll through this peaceful village, you’ll notice how the water, earth, and buildings seem to flow in harmony—a testament to the locals' appreciation of Feng Shui principles. The village is not just a scenic spot, but a living community where time seems to slow down, and the rhythm of rural life unfolds gently before you.

After a full day of discovery, you’ll be driven back to your hotel, with the awe-inspiring imagery of ancient Tulou and the tranquil countryside still fresh in your mind.

Day4 Nanjing County

Continue your Tulou discovery today with a journey into the heart of Fujian’s cultural soul. In the morning, head to Yun Shui Yao Ancient Town, a serene village steeped in history and surrounded by lush countryside. Here, time seems to slow down, allowing you to truly soak in the tranquil atmosphere. The peaceful charm of this riverside village, with its century-old banyan trees, clear bubbling streams, and ancient bridges, offers the perfect backdrop for a relaxing start to your day. Traditional tiled rooftops and well-preserved wooden homes line the narrow cobblestone lanes, creating a scene that feels like a painting come to life. As you wander, you may see villagers weaving bamboo baskets, children playing by the water, and elders sipping tea under shaded eaves—glimpses of a lifestyle that has remained largely unchanged for generations.

Next, visit Hegui Lou, one of the tallest and most impressive Tulou structures in Nanjing County. Rising five stories high with over 200 rooms, this massive square earthen building commands attention not just for its size, but for its incredible endurance. Built more than 300 years ago on soft marshland, it defies the odds with its sturdy foundations and earthquake-resistant design. The structure leans slightly due to the shifting ground beneath, but this only adds to its charm and historical significance. As you step inside, you'll be struck by the clever architectural planning—thick rammed earth walls, strong wooden beams, and natural ventilation that keeps the interior cool in summer and warm in winter. It’s a living example of how traditional craftsmanship met the needs of an entire community.

Then make your way to Huaiyuan Lou, an exquisite circular Tulou considered one of the finest examples of its kind in Fujian. Built during the reign of Emperor Guangxu in the late Qing Dynasty, this two-ring structure showcases a perfect blend of form and function. Its symmetrical design represents balance and harmony, while its rich interior details—such as carved wooden railings, ancestral tablets, and calligraphy plaques—reflect the cultural depth of the Hakka people. Unlike the more rugged look of older Tulou, Huaiyuan Lou is known for its refined aesthetics and meticulous preservation. Walking through its corridors feels like stepping back in time, as generations of stories echo through the polished wood and earth walls.

Around midday, take a break and enjoy a traditional Hakka-style lunch at a local eatery in the village. The flavors are simple yet deeply satisfying, with ingredients sourced from the surrounding countryside. A must-try is stir-fried razor clams, cooked with garlic and local herbs for a fresh, briny taste that highlights the region’s coastal influences. Another favorite is the oyster omelette, a crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside dish made with fresh oysters and a savory batter, offering a deliciously local twist on comfort food. These signature dishes offer a true taste of rural Fujian.

In the afternoon, continue your adventure with a stroll along the Yunshuiyao Ancient Road, a scenic 10-kilometer pebble path that was once part of an old trade route linking Longyan and Zhangzhou. Shaded by towering banyan trees and flanked by ancient brick-and-wood homes, this path invites leisurely exploration, quiet moments, and perhaps a quick sketch or two if you're artistically inclined. The gentle rhythm of village life and the sounds of nature make this a soothing finale to your Tulou visit.

After soaking in the rich history and culture, return to Xiamen in the late afternoon, carrying with you stories and memories from Fujian’s timeless countryside.

Day5 Xiamen Departure

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast, you’ll be met by your private driver who will escort you comfortably to the airport. Sit back and relax during the smooth transfer, reflecting on the unforgettable memories made during your Tulou adventure. As you arrive at the airport in good time for your onward journey, we wish you a safe and pleasant flight ahead—until next time!

Price Per Person in US Dollars