2-Day Xiamen & Tulou Tour: Island Charm, Hakka Heritage & Ancient Villages

Your journey begins on Gulangyu Island, one of Xiamen’s most enchanting destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as the “Island of Music,” Gulangyu blends European-style villas, lush gardens, and coastal scenery into a peaceful retreat away from the city’s bustle. Cars are not allowed here, so you can wander freely through narrow lanes lined with old banyan trees, charming cafés, and hidden courtyards.

After returning to the main island, you will visit Nanputuo Temple, one of China’s most famous Buddhist temples nestled at the foot of Wulao Mountain. The temple complex consists of grand halls, incense-filled courtyards, and stone pathways leading to tranquil shrines, each with its own story. Your guide will walk you through the temple’s rich history dating back to the Tang Dynasty, explaining Buddhist rituals, architectural details, and the symbolism behind the golden statues and carved eaves.

Finally, the day ends at Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street, a lively hub where old Xiamen meets modern life. Here, you can wander among colonial-era buildings lit up with warm evening lights, shop for souvenirs, and taste famous local snacks like oyster omelets, peanut soup, and fish balls. our guide will recommend the best food stalls and hidden spots known only to locals.

Your journey begins at Chengqi Lou, the most iconic round Tulou in Fujian and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This enormous earthen building, constructed during the Ming Dynasty, rises four stories high and was designed to house dozens of families within its thick, protective walls. As you walk into the central courtyard, you will notice the harmonious layout of living quarters, kitchens, and ancestral halls.

Next, you will visit Zhencheng Lou, a remarkable square Tulou that showcases the architectural diversity of the Hakka communities. This multi-story building is organized around spacious courtyards with wooden stairways and communal areas that highlight practical design and artistic craftsmanship. Your guide will point out the differences between round and square Tulous, explaining how each layout served defensive needs and reflected cultural values.

Finally, you will visit the Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster, a stunning arrangement of five Tulous in a flower-like pattern, with one round Tulou at the center and four square Tulous surrounding it. Walking through the cluster, you will be able to appreciate the scale, symmetry, and harmony of these historic structures. Your guide will share insights into how each building was constructed for defensive strength, communal living, and social cohesion, pointing out architectural details and historic features that might otherwise go unnoticed.