Xiamen and Tulou Xiamen Tour Packages: 5-Day Exploration of Gulangyu Island and Traditional Villages

Summary

Day1 Xiamen Arrival
Day2 Xiamen: Gulangyu Island
Day3 Xiamen-Nanjing by Car: Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster, Taxia Village
Day4 Nanjing-Xiamen by Car: Yun Shui Yao Ancient Town
Day5 Xiamen Departure

Day1 Xiamen Arrival

Upon your arrival in Xiamen, your English-speaking guide will be waiting at the station, airport, or hotel with a sign that reads "Your Way Holiday." They will greet you and escort you to your hotel, ensuring a smooth transfer. Once you are comfortably settled in, feel free to ask your guide about nearby food options, shopping areas, or attractions that you can explore on your own. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely stroll, a taste of local delicacies, or a visit to a nearby sightseeing spot, your guide will provide recommendations to make your first day in Xiamen enjoyable and stress-free.

Day2 Xiamen

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel or the designated pickup point, holding our sign to greet you. You’ll be transferred to the ferry terminal to begin your exciting day on Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colonial architecture, lush gardens, and tranquil ambiance. A short boat ride will take you to the island, where you’ll begin your exploration. The ferry ride to Gulangyu Island offers more than just transportation; it’s an opportunity to enjoy scenic views of Xiamen’s coastline and the turquoise waters of the Taiwan Strait. Your guide will point out notable landmarks, adding context to your journey and making this short trip an informative and enjoyable introduction to your day.

Upon arrival on Gulangyu Island, your first stop is the Shuzhuang Garden, a stunning garden renowned for its harmonious blend of natural beauty and traditional Chinese landscaping. Your guide will lead you through the garden’s winding paths, guiding you past tranquil ponds, decorative rockeries, and lush vegetation. This peaceful retreat, once the private residence of a wealthy businessman, offers picturesque views of the sea and is home to a fascinating collection of sculptures and cultural relics. Your guide will also highlight the architectural details of the garden, explaining how it reflects the traditional elements of Chinese garden design and the lifestyle of the island’s affluent past.

Next, you’ll visit Hai Tian Tang Gou Mansion, a unique mansion and museum dedicated to the history and culture of Gulangyu Island. Originally built by a famous merchant, this mansion features elegant architecture with both Eastern and Western influences. As you explore, your guide will share interesting stories about the building’s history, its previous owners, and the role it played in shaping the island's cultural landscape. The mansion’s well-preserved interiors and beautifully landscaped grounds provide a window into the island’s past. Additionally, the site offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, making it a perfect spot to reflect on the island’s cultural and architectural heritage.

After exploring these main attractions, your guide will take you to a local restaurant for a delicious lunch. Here, you’ll have the chance to sample some local specialties, such as Xiamen-style seafood or Oyster Omelette. Your guide will recommend the best dishes, ensuring you enjoy an authentic and satisfying meal tailored to your preferences. The restaurant itself will likely offer a cozy ambiance, where you can enjoy the flavors of the region while relaxing in good company.

Before returning to the ferry, you’ll have the opportunity to explore more of Gulangyu Island’s hidden gems. Depending on your interests, you may choose to visit Sunlight Rock, which offers panoramic views of Xiamen and the surrounding islands, or take a stroll through the Gulangyu Organ Museum, which showcases the island’s rich musical history and the world-famous organ collection. Your guide will be happy to suggest these additional sites, or you can opt for some time to wander through the island’s quaint streets and alleys, each offering unique charm and a sense of nostalgia.

After your exploration of Gulangyu Island, your guide will escort you back to the ferry and return you to Xiamen. You will be dropped off at your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on your day’s experiences. Should you wish to venture out for an evening stroll or explore other parts of Xiamen, your guide will be happy to provide recommendations for nearby attractions or dining options. Whether you prefer a relaxing evening by the beach or a lively exploration of Xiamen’s vibrant streets, your guide will ensure you have everything you need for a memorable end to your day.

Day3 Xiamen-Nanjing by Car

Your guide will meet you at your hotel in Xiamen and accompany you on a scenic drive to Nanjing County, the heart of the UNESCO-listed Tulou (earthen buildings) and traditional Hakka culture. The drive offers you beautiful views of China’s rural landscape, with lush green hills, winding rivers, and picturesque farmlands. Throughout the journey, your guide will share interesting historical anecdotes and cultural insights about the area, giving you a deeper understanding of the significance of the Tulou and how these traditional structures have shaped the lives of the Hakka people. The journey takes around 2-3 hours, offering a peaceful and scenic start to your day, setting the stage for a fascinating cultural exploration.

Upon arrival at the Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster, your guide will lead you through this stunning and iconic complex, which is one of the most photographed Tulou sites in China. The cluster, surrounded by terraced fields and green mountains, consists of a mix of round and square earthen buildings designed for communal living. As you walk through the site, your guide will explain the architectural brilliance of these structures, which were built without the use of nails, and how they have endured through the centuries. You will gain insights into the Hakka people’s unique lifestyle, learning how these buildings have served as vital centers of family, community, and defense. Your guide will also share the fascinating cultural significance of the Tulou, and how they reflect the Hakka values of unity, resilience, and respect for nature.

After visiting the Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster, your guide will take you to a local restaurant in the area for lunch, where you’ll have the chance to taste authentic Hakka cuisine. Your meal will include specialties such as salt-baked chicken, Hakka stuffed tofu, and stir-fried seasonal vegetables, offering a true taste of the region’s culinary traditions. Your guide will not only recommend the best dishes but will also explain the cultural significance behind each meal, making it an educational and flavorful experience. As you dine, your guide will take the time to ensure that you are comfortable and enjoying the meal, sharing more about the local food culture and customs.

After lunch, you will head to Taxia Village, a picturesque Hakka village nestled in the hills. This traditional village is known for its well-preserved stone houses that have stood for over 300 years. Your guide will lead you through the narrow alleys of the village, explaining the history behind the houses and how the Hakka people’s way of life has been influenced by their environment and culture. As you walk, your guide will highlight the unique Hakka architecture, with its characteristic blend of functionality and beauty, and provide you with insight into the daily lives of the village’s residents. Surrounded by lush rice fields and rolling hills, the serene beauty of the village adds to the cultural experience, allowing you to connect with the local traditions and customs.

After exploring Taxia Village and the Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster, your guide will accompany you to your accommodation in Nanjing County, where you can check in and unwind. Your guide will make sure you are settled and comfortable before reviewing the itinerary for the following day, ensuring that you are fully prepared for the next part of your journey. 

Day4 Nanjing-Xiamen by Car

After checking out from your accommodation in Nanjing County, your guide will accompany you on a scenic drive back to Xiamen, offering a tranquil journey through the beautiful countryside of southeastern China. Along the way, you’ll pass through rolling hills, terraced rice fields, and quaint villages. As you travel, your guide will provide insightful commentary about the region’s rich cultural history, local customs, and unique landscapes, enhancing the experience of the drive. The journey provides an excellent opportunity to see the natural beauty of the region up close and appreciate the simplicity of rural life in China.

Upon arrival at Yun Shui Yao Ancient Town, you’ll be welcomed by the charm of this historic town, famous for its well-preserved Hakka architecture and picturesque riverside views. The town’s serene atmosphere and ancient buildings will transport you to a time when life moved at a slower pace. As you walk through the narrow, cobbled streets, your guide will introduce you to the traditional stone houses and ancient structures, explaining the architectural style and cultural significance of the area. The town, which has maintained its traditional Hakka heritage, offers a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle of the local community, where customs and traditions are still very much alive.

You’ll have time to explore the ancient temples and other historical sites in the town. Your guide will narrate the rich stories behind these places, adding context to their importance in local life. As you visit these historical sites, your guide will share insights into the spiritual and cultural significance of the temples, highlighting the deep connection between the Hakka people and their heritage. The peaceful ambiance, combined with the scenic views of the river and traditional wooden bridges, will create a serene environment for you to enjoy a moment of relaxation and reflection. You may also take time to admire the craftsmanship of the stone bridges and the beautiful natural surroundings.

For lunch, you’ll be treated to authentic local Hakka cuisine at a nearby restaurant. You’ll enjoy dishes such as braised pork with preserved vegetables and fresh river fish—delicacies unique to the region. The ingredients are locally sourced, offering a true taste of the area’s agricultural wealth. Your guide will explain the cultural meanings behind each dish, offering a deeper understanding of the culinary traditions of the area. The lunch is not just a meal, but a journey into the heart of the local culture, where every bite tells a story.

After lunch, you’ll have some free time to enjoy the serene ambiance of Yun Shui Yao Ancient Town. You can take a quiet stroll through its charming streets, allowing you to fully absorb the timeless beauty of the town and its unique atmosphere. The peaceful riverside views and traditional wooden houses provide the perfect setting to reflect on the day’s experiences and appreciate the history that has shaped this village.

Once your visit to Yun Shui Yao Ancient Town is complete, your guide will escort you back to your vehicle for the return journey to Xiamen. As you travel back, you’ll have the chance to reflect on the day’s experiences and discuss any additional questions you may have about the region. 

Day5 Xiamen Departure

On the final day of your journey, your guide will meet you at the designated time and location, ready to assist with your departure from Xiamen. Whether you are heading to the airport or the train station, your guide will ensure a smooth and stress-free transfer. They will help with your luggage and provide any last-minute assistance, making sure your departure is as comfortable and seamless as possible.

Price Per Person in US Dollars