Xiamen Jimei: Sea View Metro, Nanyang Memory & Sunset Walk

Exploring Xiamen’s Jimei district offers a blend of modern coastal views, traditional architecture, and vibrant local life. While this tour is packed with highlights, it’s especially appealing for those who love scenic rides and cultural insights without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we love about this experience is the spectacular sea-view metro ride, the chance to see Nanyang-style architecture, and ending the day with a relaxing sunset walk along the Ten-Mile Dyke. The tour also offers a taste of authentic local cuisine and a deeper look into the legacy of Chen Jiageng.

A potential consideration is the length of the day (about 10 hours), which might be a lot for travelers who prefer shorter excursions or have limited energy for extensive sightseeing. Still, for those wanting a comprehensive experience of Jimei’s cultural and coastal beauty, it’s well worth it.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic transportation, cultural sightseeing, and authentic food experiences, especially those interested in Chinese architecture and coastal landscapes.

Key Points

• Scenic Transit: The sea-view metro provides breathtaking ocean views and a memorable start.
• Architectural Highlights: Admire Southeast Asian-style buildings and traditional Nanyang architecture.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Chen Jiageng’s legacy through dedicated museums and parks.
• Local Flavors: Experience authentic dishes at Shigu Road food street.
• Serene Walk: End with a peaceful sunset along the Ten-Mile Dyke, with expansive sea and city views.
• Convenience & Flexibility: Pickup, guided tour, and optional pay later make planning easier.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting with the Sea-View Metro

The journey kicks off with a ride on Xiamen’s Metro Line 1, which is claimed to be one of the most scenic metro rides in the city. Unlike typical subway commutes, yours will glide over an elevated sea bridge, offering sweeping vistas of tidal flats, flocks of egrets, and the vast ocean stretching to the horizon.

Travelers repeatedly mention how this part of the tour is “a moving postcard,” capturing the coastal charm that defines Jimei. The train’s design maximizes the viewing experience, and it’s surprisingly comfortable considering it’s a metro train, providing a smooth, uninterrupted view. It’s worth noting that the metro ride is return tickets between Jimei Xuecun & Gaoqi station, making it straightforward and hassle-free.

Exploring Nanyang-Style Architecture at Dragon Boat Pond

Once off the metro, you’ll visit Dragon Boat Pond, a tranquil spot surrounded by grand red-brick buildings showcasing the distinct Nanyang style — a fusion of Minnan tradition and Southeast Asian elegance. The architectural details, such as flying eaves and intricate carvings, are eye-catching and reflect the influence of overseas Chinese communities.

Key structures like Daonan Tower and Nanxun Building stand out, representing a harmonious blend of local craftsmanship and foreign aesthetics. During peak seasons, the area is lively with festivals and traditional performances held at the Opera Square, giving you a chance to witness local culture in action.

Learning About Chen Jiageng’s Legacy

A significant part of this tour is dedicated to Chen Jiageng, a prominent figure in Xiamen’s history. You’ll stroll through Jiageng Park, shaded by banyan trees, and visit Ao Garden, a peaceful retreat with pagodas, stone carvings, and memorial arches. These sites exemplify the aesthetic of the Jiageng Style and provide insight into his philanthropic efforts.

The highlight for history buffs is the Chen Jiageng Memorial Hall, where artifacts, photographs, and immersive exhibits narrate his story as an influential overseas philanthropist. It’s an enriching experience that helps visitors appreciate the local roots of modern Xiamen.

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Tasting Local Flavors at Shigu Road Food Street

Next, the tour takes you to Shigu Road, a bustling street brimming with food vendors and lively chatter. Here, there’s no pretense — just good, honest local cuisine. You might find satay noodles with rich broth, crispy oyster omelettes, peanut soup, and fried spring rolls.

Multiple reviews highlight how authentic and flavorful the street food is, making it the perfect place to experience Xiamen’s unpretentious culinary culture. The vendors are cheerful, and the aroma alone is enough to whet your appetite.

Visiting Xiamen Garden Expo Park & Moon Plaza

A visit to Garden Expo Park introduces you to regional Chinese landscaping traditions, with themed gardens from different parts of China, including Suzhou-style courtyards and Yunnan-inspired plantings. Bridges, streams, and pavilions create a picturesque setting for wandering or relaxing.

Close by, Moon Plaza offers a minimalist design with a panoramic ocean view, ideal for photos and momentary reflection. Several travelers appreciate how peaceful it is, especially at sunset.

Ending with the Scenic Ten-Mile Dyke Sunset Walk

To cap off the day, you’ll stroll along Ten-Mile Dyke, a scenic coastal seawall. As the sun dips lower, the sky turns gold, and the breeze cools, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of the city skyline on one side and the open sea on the other.

Reviewers describe this walk as “the perfect way to unwind,” with many noting how calming and photogenic the scenery is. It’s a relaxing way to reflect on the day while breathing in fresh sea air.

Practicalities & Tips

Transport & Duration: The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including all stops, and transfers are included, with pickup and drop-off from anywhere in Xiamen. The guided experience is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Korean, Japanese, and Chinese.

Cost & Value: At $203 per person, the price includes metro tickets, shuttle bus, a local snack and drink, and a knowledgeable guide. Considering the comprehensive itinerary, transport, and authentic experiences, this fee offers good value — especially for travelers seeking an all-in-one cultural and scenic day.

What to Bring: Don’t forget your passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera for the stunning views.

Limitations: The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to terrain and transportation considerations. Booking is flexible with a pay-later option and a 24-hour cancellation policy.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides a thoughtful blend of coastal scenery, cultural insights, and local flavors, making it especially appealing for those who want to experience Xiamen beyond the usual tourist spots. The sea-view metro ride is truly a standout feature, offering a memorable start, while the visit to Nanyang architecture and Chen Jiageng’s legacy deepens your understanding of the city’s history.

The authentic street food and peaceful sunset walk make this a well-rounded day, balancing activity with moments of reflection. For travelers interested in architecture, history, or simply soaking in scenic views, this tour offers genuine value.

If you’re after an immersive day that’s both relaxing and informative, with plenty of photo opportunities and local flavor, this experience is a solid pick. Just be prepared for a full day of exploration, and you’ll likely come away with a new appreciation for Xiamen’s coastal charm and cultural depth.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes metro tickets for the scenic Line 1 ride, plus a shuttle bus for park visits and transfers throughout the day.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with groups of 1-6 people, allowing for a more personalized experience. Larger groups can inquire about custom options.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included, but guides will recommend local options. You can choose to sample dishes from street vendors or nearby eateries based on your preference.

What language is the guide available in?
Guides are available in Chinese, English, Spanish, Korean, and Japanese, ensuring clear communication for a diverse range of travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 10 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most parts of the tour are family-friendly, but due to walking and terrain, considerations should be made for young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling is possible, subject to availability.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the scenic views and architecture.

This comprehensive tour offers a fantastic way to see Jimei’s coastal beauty and cultural treasures without the hassle of planning. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or simply seeking scenic relaxation, it’s a well-rounded experience that highlights the best of Xiamen’s lesser-known side.

You can check availability for your dates here: