Top Things to Do and Travel Guide to Xiamen University

As a traveler who has explored the world, I’ve come to believe that what truly defines a city isn’t just its scenery, but its soul. My name is Michael Zhang, and over the years, I’ve been drawn to destinations rich in both history and culture. Xiamen, a city that gracefully blends tradition with modern charm, is one of those places that captivates the heart. With its gentle sea breeze and laid-back rhythm of life, it is also home to one of China’s most beautiful universities — Xiamen University.

Xiamen University Introduction

Xiamen University, also known as XMU, is one of China’s key universities under the national “211 Project” and “985 Project.” It holds a special place in the history of modern Chinese education as the first university founded by an overseas Chinese — Mr. Chen Jiageng (Tan Kah Kee) — in 1921. As one of the few universities in China open to tourists, Xiamen University has become a must-visit attraction for travelers who want to experience the architecture, academic spirit, and daily life of a Chinese campus.

• Address: No. 422, Siming South Road, Siming District, Xiamen (Apple Maps/Amap)
• Opening Hours: 10:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Recommended Visit Duration: 3 – 4 hours
• Best Season to Visit: All year round
• Ticket Price: Free (advance reservation required)

Xiamen University Map

Why You Should Visit Xiamen University

The Beauty of Geography and Architecture

Nestled between Wulao Mountain and Xiamen Bay, and adjacent to Nanputuo Temple, Xiamen University offers an extraordinary setting where nature and culture harmoniously meet. Inside the campus, Furong Lake glistens under the sunlight, reflecting the red-tiled roofs and palm-lined paths of the university’s classic Jiageng-style architecture. Both the Siming and Xiang’an campuses are embraced by mountains and sea, creating a rare combination of natural serenity and human creativity.

A Legacy of History and Culture

Founded in 1921 by patriotic overseas Chinese leader Tan Kah Kee, Xiamen University has long upheld the motto “Pursue Excellence, Strive for Perfection.” Over the past century, it has nurtured countless outstanding talents across disciplines. The campus preserves historical landmarks such as the Qunxian Building Complex and the Jiannan Auditorium, whose blend of Chinese and Western architectural elements reflects the university’s deep cultural roots and century-old academic tradition.

Youthful Energy and Artistic Spirit

The spirit of youth thrives in every corner of the campus. Vibrant graffiti created by students covers the 1.1-kilometer-long Furong Tunnel, turning it into a living gallery of creativity and dreams. Meanwhile, the Shangxian Field, once a historic military training site for Zheng Chenggong’s troops, has become a modern sports ground with breathtaking views of Gulangyu Island and the Twin Towers. Every step here reminds you that Xiamen University isn’t just a place of learning — it’s a celebration of art, freedom, and life itself.

Top Things to Do in Xiamen University

Main Attractions

Tan Kah Kee Statue

As you enter Xiamen University, the first thing that captures your attention is the solemn and majestic Tan Kah Kee Statue. Standing quietly in the heart of the campus, it symbolizes the selfless dedication of this patriotic overseas Chinese who devoted his life to education in China. Standing here, you can feel a sense of timeless respect — sunlight shines upon the bronze figure, a lush green lawn stretches behind it, and a gentle breeze flows across. The atmosphere is both dignified and full of life. This is also one of the best spots for aesthetic photography, whether you prefer wide-angle shots or close-up portraits that capture the beauty of history and youth in harmony.

Song En Building

As the most iconic architectural complex of Xiamen University, the Song En Building is a landmark every visitor should see. Known for its elegant Nanyang architectural style and red-brick façade, it strikes a perfect balance between grandeur and refinement. From the edge of Furong Lake, look up toward the building — the blue sky is mirrored in the water, and the red roofs glisten in the sunlight, creating a breathtaking scene. Many photographers agree that the combination of blue sky, lake reflection, and campus architecture makes this spot one of the most photogenic locations in Xiamen University.

Furong Lake

If the Song En Building represents the soul of Xiamen University, then Furong Lake is its heart. The lake surface is calm and clear like a mirror, often reflecting a pair of graceful black swans gliding by — a scene of pure serenity and poetry. Sitting by the stone benches along the lakeside, you can watch the sunlight shimmer across the water and even capture the reflection of Song En Building in the lake. It’s a peaceful, romantic corner that instantly soothes the mind — a true healing spot on campus.

Furong Tunnel

The Furong Tunnel, stretching 1.1 kilometers, is a vibrant passage filled with creativity and youthful energy. Its colorful graffiti-covered walls tell countless student stories and dreams. The tunnel radiates freedom and self-expression rather than formality — walk slowly, take photos, and feel the unique vitality of campus life. At the tunnel’s end lies Baicheng Beach, where the artistic vibe of the university seamlessly transitions into the relaxing rhythm of the sea breeze — one of the most distinctive routes at Xiamen University.

Xiamen University Ticket Reservation Guide

Visitors who wish to enter Xiamen University must make a reservation in advance through the official WeChat public account (scan the QR code on the screenshot below). You’ll need to provide your ID information and complete facial recognition. Reservations open up to three days in advance and cannot be made on-site. The official limit is 3,000 visitors per time slot, which means availability is limited — make sure to book early!

If you’re unable to secure a ticket or can’t make a reservation, consider staying at a hotel located inside Xiamen University. Guests staying within the campus can freely enter and explore after check-in. See the hotel recommendations below for details.

Recommended Walking Route in Xiamen University

Xiamen University is quite large, and the recommended route takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete:

Visitor Center Escalator → Revolutionary History Exhibition Hall → Tan Kah Kee Statue → Lu Xun Memorial Hall → Biology Museum → Shangxian Field → Jiannan Auditorium → Anthropology Museum → Science and Art Center → Song En Building → Furong Lake → Tan Kah Kee Sculptures → Siyuan Valley → Furong Tunnel → Baicheng Gate

Recommended Food Near Xiamen University

All dining halls inside Xiamen University are closed to the public. According to students, a few were once open but have since been closed to avoid disrupting campus dining. For visitors, only KFC and 7-Eleven are available inside the university. There is also a commercial street leading to the Visitor Center where you can find local eateries — perfect for a meal after your campus visit. KFC and 7-Eleven are next to each other. See their location here (Apple Maps/Amap).

Hotels Inside Xiamen University

There are only two hotels within Xiamen University — Xiamen University International Academic Exchange Center and Lin Wutong Building. The International Academic Exchange Center is often fully booked, so the Lin Wutong Building is usually the better option. After booking, contact the hotel to inform them that you plan to visit Xiamen University. The hotel will help you register your entry, allowing you to explore the campus freely during your stay.

Lin Wutong Building near Xiamen University

• Location: Near Xiamen University
• Price Range: 748 RMB
• Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
• Rating: 4.6 out of 5 on Trip.com
• Special Amenities: Direct access to Xiamen University without prior reservation required.

The hotel’s prime location makes it easy to visit Xiamen University, Nanputuo Temple, Shapowei, and Zhongshan Road. Its major advantage is offering guests direct entry to Xiamen University, which typically requires a reservation, making it ideal for visitors interested in exploring the university.

Rooms are clean, quiet, and comfortable, making it a worthy stay. However, the breakfast options are somewhat limited, recommended primarily for visitors planning to tour Xiamen University.

How to Get to Xiamen University from Downtown Xiamen

The Xiamen Metro doesn’t connect directly to Xiamen University. You can take buses No. 87, 86, or 29 to reach the campus, but the most convenient way is by taxi. Taxis in Xiamen are affordable and reliable, and a ride to Xiamen University usually costs less than 20 CNY.

How to Get to Xiamen University from Xiamen Gaoqi Airport

From Xiamen Gaoqi Airport, there is no direct public transport to Xiamen University. You can take Bus 27 from the airport and get off at “Dianqian” Station, then transfer to the North Station Express Line and get off at “Hulishan” Station before walking to the campus. The total journey takes about 1.5 hours and costs around 10 CNY. Alternatively, you can take a taxi directly to Xiamen University — the ride takes approximately 25 minutes and costs between 30–40 CNY, which is still quite affordable.

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