Xiamen’s Best Scenic Drives & Road Trip Attractions

Xiamen, a coastal gem in Fujian Province, offers some of the most breathtaking scenic drives in China. With its lush greenery, winding coastal roads, and charming island vibes, it’s a paradise for road trippers. Whether you’re cruising along the oceanfront or exploring hidden mountain routes, Xiamen’s diverse landscapes promise unforgettable adventures. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best scenic drives and must-visit road trip attractions in and around Xiamen.

The Ultimate Coastal Drive: Island Ring Road

Why It’s a Must-Drive

The Island Ring Road is Xiamen’s crown jewel for scenic drives. This 43-kilometer loop wraps around the entire island, offering uninterrupted views of the ocean, city skyline, and lush parks. The well-paved road is perfect for a leisurely drive, cycling, or even a sunrise jog.

Top Stops Along the Way

• Hulishan Fortress: A historic coastal defense site with panoramic ocean views.
• Zeng Cuo An: A quirky artsy village with boutique cafes and surf culture.
• Xiamen University & Baicheng Beach: A perfect combo of academia and seaside relaxation.

Pro tip: Drive this route at sunset for golden-hour magic over the Taiwan Strait.

Gulangyu Island: A Car-Free Escape

Getting There by Ferry

While cars aren’t allowed on Gulangyu, the short ferry ride from Xiamen’s mainland is part of the adventure. Park your car at the ferry terminal and hop on a boat to this UNESCO-listed island.

Exploring on Foot or Electric Cart

• Shuzhuang Garden: A stunning seaside garden with hidden piano melodies.
• Sunlight Rock: Hike up for the best 360-degree views of Xiamen.
• Colonial Architecture: Wander the car-free lanes lined with European-style villas.

The Mountain Escape: Wanshi Botanical Garden Drive

A Green Oasis in the City

For a break from the coast, head inland to Wanshi Botanical Garden. The winding uphill drive is surrounded by tropical plants, towering boulders, and serene lakes.

Highlights to Explore

• Stone Inscriptions Trail: Ancient calligraphy etched into cliffs.
• Desert Plant Zone: A surprising collection of cacti and succulents.
• South Putuo Temple: A peaceful Buddhist temple nestled in the hills.

Xiamen to Nanjing Tulou: A Cultural Road Trip

The Journey Through Fujian’s Countryside

Rent a car and take a 3-hour drive from Xiamen to the UNESCO-listed Nanjing Tulou (earthen roundhouses). The route passes through tea plantations, bamboo forests, and traditional villages.

Must-Visit Tulou Clusters

• Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster: The iconic "Four Dishes and One Soup" formation.
• Yuchang Lou: The oldest leaning tulou with a unique wooden structure.
• Hongkeng Village: A well-preserved community with guided tours.

The Hidden Gem: Yunshuiyao Ancient Village

A Picturesque Detour

About 2.5 hours from Xiamen, this ancient village feels like stepping into a Chinese watercolor painting. Stone bridges, old banyan trees, and slow-moving streams create a dreamy atmosphere.

What Not to Miss

• The 700-Year-Old Banyan Tree: A massive tree with legendary status.
• He Gui Lou: A tulou transformed into a cozy guesthouse.
• Tea Houses: Sample locally grown oolong tea by the river.

Road Trip Essentials for Xiamen

Best Time to Hit the Road

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Avoid summer typhoon season if possible.

Car Rental Tips

• International licenses are accepted at major rental companies.
• Opt for a compact car—Xiamen’s streets can be narrow.
• Download offline maps; some rural areas have spotty signal.

Snack Like a Local

Don’t hit the road without trying:
- Shacha Noodles: A Xiamen specialty with a savory peanut sauce.
- Oyster Omelets: Crispy, juicy, and sold at street stalls.
- Pineapple Cakes: Sweet souvenirs for the ride home.

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Anxi Tea Plantation Loop

For Tea Lovers

A 1.5-hour drive from Xiamen leads to Anxi County, the birthplace of Tieguanyin tea. The rolling hills of tea terraces make for a hypnotic drive.

Tea Experiences

• Plantation Tours: Pick leaves and learn traditional roasting methods.
• Tea Tasting Sessions: Sip freshly brewed oolong in a misty mountain hut.
• Scenic Lookouts: Stop at roadside viewpoints for Insta-worthy valley shots.

Night Drives: Xiamen’s Skyline Illuminated

Best Routes After Dark

• Yundang Lake: The city lights reflecting on the water are magical.
• Zhongshan Road: A pedestrian street, but the drive-in nearby offers neon-lit night views.
• Haicang Bridge: For a dramatic, lit-up suspension bridge experience.

Xiamen’s roads are more than just routes—they’re gateways to coastal bliss, cultural treasures, and culinary delights. So fuel up, roll down the windows, and let the island’s rhythm guide your journey.