Xiamen Neighborhoods, Locations and Districts

(Xiamen, Fujian, China)

The sub provincial city of Xiamen provides a varied landscape, ranging from a gorgeous shoreline and islands to mountainous terrain. Divided into six primary districts, two of which fall outside China's strict economic laws in order to encourage foreign investment, Xiamen is a city that is yet to fulfil its full potential. Untapped resources lay dormant, while educational institutes blossom providing fertile conditions for economic and trading success.

The busy districts of Huli and Siming on Xiamen Island are always bustling with activity, while respite can be found on Gulangyu Island, a particularly tranquil spot. Xiamen's main districts are below.

Gulangyu Island

Located a 5-minute ferry ride from downtown Xiamen, Gulangyu Island is a popular natural retreat from the central districts of the city, where vehicles are not permitted. Known for its scenic spots and general lack of self promotion, the Gulangyu Island is also home to various religious sites, pianos and contrasting Western and Chinese styled buildings, and is the perfect base for snorkelling, being surrounded by appealing reef. Its name derives from the words 'drum' and 'wave', after the sound the water makes as it hits the reef when the tide comes in. During the second half of the 19th century, the island became common concession with foreign representatives occupying many buildings. Now home to mostly Chinese, Gulangyu has a laidback feel and boasts top attractions such as Sunlight Rock and Shuzhuang Garden.

Jimei District

Ranking as one of the city's most attractive districts, Jimei is the gateway to Xiamen. Home to tourist hotspots, such as Returnees, Turtle Garden and Mr. Tan Kah-Kee's former residence, this district is also an educational hub. The University of Jimei is architecturally beautiful and visitors can tour the campus at their leisure. Other walking opportunities present themselves along the waterfront, where a wide promenade tempts strollers.

Huli District

Primarily an industrial hub of Xiamen, the Huli district is home to businesses and manufacturing factories and is therefore not a popular place to stay among tourists, despite there being a selection of hotels. However, Huli is divided into some distinctive areas that are worthy of exploration if you want an insight into the driving force behind this city's success. Banks, fast-food outlets, a park and a cinema help to make this area liveable, as do the wide tree-lined streets.

Siming District

Located on Xiamen Island, this south-eastern district is named in commemoration of Zheng Chenggong, who is celebrated for his historical defeat of the Qing. Encompassing beaches, a scenic shoreline and some natural attractions, it may come as a surprise to some that Xiamen's Siming district is also an economic and trading hub. Zhongshan Road ranks as one of China's most renowned commercial streets and visitors will find lots of exciting shopping opportunities in this area, including international chain stores.

Tong'an District

This coastal zone is where Xiamen's natural resources await to be developed. The presence of granite and mineral water, as well as fertile land ideal for agriculture, indicate that the Tong'an district is set to be an important part of the city for years to come. Dissected by Fuzhou-Xiamen and Zhangzhou-Quanzhou highways, the district provides good access to nearby areas and Xiamen International Airport. Hot springs here also attract those looking for a therapeutic way to relax.