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If you’re considering a trip to Xiamen and want to uncover both its urban charm and rural wonders, this 2-day private tour offers a compelling way to do so. Promising a comprehensive experience that blends natural scenery, cultural heritage, and traditional architecture, it caters to travelers eager for an authentic and well-rounded visit. With logistics handled—including private transport, a knowledgeable guide, and all entrance fees—this tour simplifies the challenge of planning a rich itinerary in just two days.
What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines iconic spots like Gulangyu Island with the fascinating Fujian Tulou clusters. Plus, the inclusion of local meals and seamless transportation means you’re free to focus on soaking in the sights rather than wrestling with the logistics. On the flip side, the overall price per person might seem steep for some, but when you look at the value of the sites visited and the convenience provided, it’s often well worth it. This tour suits those who prefer an in-depth, guided approach to maximize their time and discover the area’s highlights comfortably.
Key Points
- All-inclusive package covering transportation, entrance fees, meals, and guide service
- Visits to Gulangyu Island, Fujian Tulou, and scenic coastal paths
- Expert local guide providing insights into history and culture
- Private vehicle for a relaxed, personalized experience
- Perfect for travelers who want a curated, hassle-free overview of Xiamen’s top sights
- A balance of scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and authentic local cuisine
Why Consider a Private Tour of Xiamen?
Xiamen offers a fascinating blend of modern urban life and traditional Chinese culture, with a coastline that invites peaceful strolls and historic sites that tell stories of centuries past. While independent travel is certainly possible, a guided private tour can unlock deeper insights and streamline your experience. With customized attention, you can ask questions, adjust the pace, and focus on your interests—whether that’s photography, history, or simply enjoying the scenery.
This particular tour is designed for those who want to see the highlights without the stress of navigation or language barriers. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors, groups, or couples seeking an enriching yet relaxed schedule. The inclusion of well-chosen sites like Gulangyu Island, Nanputuo Temple, and the Tulou clusters ensures an engaging blend of natural beauty, history, and architecture.
Day 1: Discovering Gulangyu Island and Nearby Highlights
Gulangyu Island: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your Xiamen hotel at 9:00 am, followed by a short transfer to the ferry terminal. The 20-minute ferry ride to Gulangyu Island is part of the experience, offering a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and views of the coastline. Once ashore, you’ll quickly see why Gulangyu is considered one of the most scenic spots in Fujian.
This island, about 2 square kilometers in size, is renowned for its eclectic architecture—a mix of colonial, Victorian, and local styles—woven into the natural landscape. Visitors often mention the island’s quaint charm and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect escape from busy city life.
Riguang Mountain: Panoramic Views
From the ferry, you’ll ascend Riguang Mountain, about an hour exploring its summit. It’s the highest point on Gulangyu and offers a bird’s eye view of the island, the city of Xiamen, and the surrounding sea. Expect to be wowed by the sweeping vistas and the photo opportunities this spot provides.
Xiamen Shuzhuang Garden and the Piano Museum
Next, you’ll stroll down to the Shuzhuang Garden, a beautifully maintained space showcasing traditional Chinese gardens alongside modern landscaping. Here, the highlight is the Piano Museum, home to an impressive collection of antique pianos from around the globe—an intriguing mix of music and art that adds a unique cultural flavor to your day.
Nanputuo Temple and Kulangsu Huandao Road
After a traditional local lunch back on Xiamen Island, you’ll visit Nanputuo Temple, a millennium-old Buddhist site. It’s a peaceful place that reflects the spiritual roots of the region, blending history with tranquil surroundings. Visitors love the temple’s architecture and the opportunity to observe monastic life.
In the late afternoon, a leisurely walk along Kulangsu Huandao Road rounds out your first day. This scenic coastal walkway, starting at Xiamen University and stretching to Wuyuan Bay, offers great views and a relaxed vibe—perfect for a sunset stroll.
Day 2: Exploring Fujian Tulou and Ta’xia Village
The Fascinating World of Fujian Tulou
Your second day begins early with a private vehicle transfer to the Tianluokeng Tulou Clusters, approximately 2.5 hours from Xiamen. These earthen structures are a UNESCO World Heritage site and among the most iconic representations of Hakka architecture. Known as “Four Dishes and a Soup,” the cluster includes three round buildings, one oval, and one rectangular structure, all striking in their uniformity and scale.
The viewing platform provides a bird’s eye view of the cluster, allowing you to appreciate its layout and significance. You’ll spend around two hours here, soaking in the architecture and understanding its purpose as a fortified communal residence.
Yuchang Building: Oldest Tulou and Cultural Insight
Next, a visit to a local Hakka family’s home provides an authentic taste of Tulou life, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch. Post-lunch, the focus shifts to Yuchang Building, built between 1308 and 1338—making it the oldest Tulou still standing. Its impressive height and size make it a key highlight, offering insight into how these structures served both as homes and defensive fortresses.
Ta’xia Village: A Picturesque Hometown
The final stop is Ta’xia Village, a charming Ming Dynasty-era settlement with a stream running through its center. Built in 1426 by the Zhang Family, the village is celebrated for its well-preserved architecture and was recognized as one of China’s Top 15 Landscape Villages. It’s a peaceful place, perfect for strolling and capturing photos of traditional rural life.
Return to Xiamen
After a relaxed exploration of Ta’xia, the tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Xiamen, leaving you with memorable images of Guangxi’s historic architecture and rural beauty.
What’s Included and What’s Not
This tour offers a comprehensive package that includes professional guiding, hotel pickup and drop-off, private transport, all entrance fees, and lunches. The mobile ticket and pickup service make it easy to start your adventure without hassle. Bottled water is also provided, which is essential amidst the summer heat or brisk mountain air.
However, it’s worth noting that hotel accommodations are not included—so you’ll need to organize your stay independently. The tour is priced at $498 per person, reflecting private, personalized service with all major logistics covered.
Authenticity, Value, and Practicalities
From the enthusiastic reviews, it’s clear that this tour offers notable value for those seeking a curated experience. One traveler described the guide as “amazing at arranging a tailor-made tour,” emphasizing the personal touch and high standard of transport. The inclusion of entrance fees and local cuisine further adds to its appeal, ensuring travelers don’t have to worry about extra costs or finding meals on the go.
The timing is well-balanced: a full day on Gulangyu and nearby sites, and a full day exploring Tulou clusters and rural villages. The private vehicle ensures comfort and flexibility, avoiding the rigidity of group tours, making it ideal for travelers who want a relaxed pace.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This private tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting an all-encompassing introduction to Xiamen’s highlights. It also suits families, couples, or small groups who prefer a personalized experience without the stress of planning logistics. If you’re interested in historic architecture, scenic landscapes, and cultural sites with a reliable guide to explain their significance, this tour fits well.
Travelers on a short trip but eager to maximize their time will appreciate the efficient itinerary that hits the main highlights in just two days. It’s also a good choice for those who want to avoid the language barrier and enjoy the comfort of private transport and guided explanations.
The Sum Up: Who Will Love This?
This 2-day private tour of Xiamen and the Fujian Tulou offers a thoughtfully curated experience blending natural beauty, history, and architecture. It’s especially valuable for travelers who prioritize convenience, expert guidance, and insider knowledge. The inclusion of all transport, entrance fees, and meals makes this a stress-free way to see the best of what Xiamen has to offer.
If you’re looking for a deeper understanding of local culture combined with some unforgettable scenery—such as panoramic views from Riguang Mountain or the striking Tulou structures—you’ll find this tour offers excellent value for money. It’s a great choice for those who want a balanced, immersive experience without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves.
In short, this tour is well-suited for curious explorers eager to connect with Xiamen’s natural and cultural heritage in a comfortable, personalized setting. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply a traveler seeking authentic experiences, it delivers a memorable journey through some of Fujian’s most iconic sights.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the start and end of your day hassle-free.
How long does the ferry ride to Gulangyu Island take?
The ferry ride from Xiamen to Gulangyu Island lasts about 20 minutes, offering a quick and scenic crossing.
Are entrance fees included in the price?
Yes, all entrance fees for the sites listed in the itinerary are included, so there are no surprise costs upon arrival.
What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
A private, air-conditioned vehicle handles all transfers, ensuring comfort and flexibility throughout the tour.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can adjust the schedule to some extent based on your interests and pace.
Are meals vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian meals can be arranged if advised at the time of booking.
How much time do I get at each site?
The itinerary allocates around 1 to 3 hours per major site, enough to explore comfortably without feeling rushed.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children should be accompanied by an adult and may need extra comfort or entertainment during longer drives.
This private 2-day itinerary offers a well-rounded glimpse into Xiamen’s scenic, cultural, and architectural treasures, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a manageable but meaningful introduction to this fascinating part of China.
