How to get to Xiamen

When planning a trip to Xiamen, you are choosing a journey to one of the most picturesque and well-developed port cities in southeastern China. Located in Fujian Province, this "Garden on the Sea" attracts tourists with its blend of colonial architecture on Gulangyu Island, lush green parks, and the dynamic energy of a modern metropolis. You can reach the city in various ways: it is served by an international airport, high-speed railways, and a network of highways connecting it to neighbouring regions.

The fastest way to reach the coast is to fly into Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN). The airport is located directly on the island, within the city limits, and handles a vast number of direct flights, making it the region's main air gateway.

Alternatively, if direct tickets are unavailable, you might consider flying into neighbouring cities. The nearest options are the airport in the city of Quanzhou, located approximately 74 kilometres away, or the air hub of Longyan (127 km), from where it is easy to continue your journey by ground transport.

Contrary to outdated information, Xiamen is a major railway hub with excellent transport connections. High-speed trains arrive at Xiamen Railway Station in the city centre and Xiamen North Station, providing rapid links to the country's key metropolises.

Travelling by train is particularly convenient for those coming from neighbouring districts, for example, from the city of Quanzhou or Longyan. The modern railway network allows you to cover these distances with maximum comfort, enjoying the views of Fujian Province from the carriage window.

Bus services in this part of the country (country: China) are traditionally well-developed, allowing you to reach the coast even from locations without railway access. Comfortable intercity coaches run regularly throughout Fujian Province, offering a budget-friendly alternative to other modes of transport.

Travel time and ticket prices depend on the point of departure, but modern highways make the journey quite swift. We recommend checking schedules and purchasing tickets at bus station counters, as buses are often chosen by tourists wishing to enjoy the scenic landscapes along the way.

Travelling by car or taxi offers freedom of movement and the ability to plan your route independently. One of the most popular routes leads from the city of Quanzhou: the distance is about 92 kilometres, which takes approximately 1.5 hours to drive in normal traffic.

If you are heading from the direction of Longyan, the journey will take a little longer. You will have to cover a distance of 162 kilometres, which usually takes about 2 hours. Please be mindful of toll roads and the requirement to hold a local driving licence to rent a car.

To ensure your trip to Xiamen is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant memories, we have prepared a list of important recommendations. Considering the specifics of the region, these tips will help you better navigate the local culture and daily life.

1. Clothing and Climate. The city has a humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot with possible typhoons, so choose light, breathable clothing and carry a raincoat. In winter, a windbreaker is sufficient, but note that there is often no central heating.
2. Transport. The city boasts a modern transport system. The most convenient way to get around is the Metro (Xiamen Metro), which connects major districts and railway stations. The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, which runs on elevated tracks above traffic jams, is also popular.
3. Finance and Payment. The main currency is the Chinese Yuan. International bank cards are rarely accepted. We strongly recommend installing Alipay or WeChat Pay apps and linking your card to them, as this is the primary payment method everywhere.
4. Connectivity and Internet. Familiar Western services and messengers may be blocked. Install necessary VPN services in advance or purchase a tourist SIM card with data roaming included.
5. Language Barrier. Few people speak English, even in tourist zones. Be sure to download an offline translator on your phone — this is vital for communicating with taxi drivers and in restaurants.
6. Visiting Gulangyu Island. Ferry tickets to the famous museum island must be booked in advance online, as they are often sold out at ticket counters, especially on weekends and holidays. There is a separate departure terminal designated for tourists.
7. Tea Culture. Fujian is the homeland of Oolong tea. Attending a tea ceremony is a mandatory part of the programme, but be cautious in tourist spots to avoid purchasing tea at inflated prices.
8. Safety. The city is very safe, but it is worth being attentive on the roads: many electric scooters move almost silently and may ride onto pavements.

Following these simple rules will allow you to enjoy the unique atmosphere of the city without being distracted by logistical issues. Enjoy your holiday!