Relative to the history of China, Xiamen is relatively young, with its recorded history dating to the Song dynasty (960 to 1279). During this dynasty the community's population numbered around 4,000, with all residents engaged in subsistence farming. more...
Xiamen has undergone recent modernisation and this has meant the addition of large shopping malls and supermarkets along with commercial and industrial parks. All this modernisation adds to the choices available to shoppers. The shopping core is the heart of the old city, along Zhongshan road. It's here that you'll find shops, unique boutiques and restaurants occupying renovated colonial-era buildings. more...
Xiamen International Marathon: on 5th January the annual international marathon takes place in Xiamen. Entrants from all over the world make the trip here to complete for gold. The organising committee is expecting between 20,000 and 30,000 competitors in the next marathon including Chinese, other Asian, European and American runners. more...
The top attraction in Xiamen is Gulangyu, the islet that is located just 700m off shore from Xiamen Island. Originally settled in the 13th century, during the Yuan dynasty, the small island boasts lush tropical vegetation surrounding an incredible collection of late-19th century buildings, representing top architectural styles from around the world. Narrow, twisting lanes wind their way past the high walls of mansions on the island’s hills, and with no vehicular traffic permitted on Gulangyu, this is an ideal place for leisurely walks. more...
It's possible to hire a car in Xiamen, with a number of car hire companies represented in the city centre. Reservations in advance are recommended. It's also possible to hire bicycles along the Island Ring Road, and a cycling tour of the area is a great way to see the sights at a more leisurely pace. Note that cyclists are required to pay a toll to use the Island Ring Road. more...
The only immunisation required for entry into China is for tourists who have visited a country affected by yellow fever in the previous 12 months. Vaccination against hepatitis types A and B and cholera are recommended. Hygiene standards are high overall in Xiamen so the risk of infectious disease is low. HIV infection is a problem and proper preventative protection is advised. If you require medical attention during your stay, you'll find that many tourist hotels have physicians on call. more...