An Authentic Two-Day Journey Through Xiamen and Fujian Tulou

This 2-day private tour offers a well-rounded peek into Xiamen’s most iconic sights and the breathtaking Toulou Earth Buildings. For $498 per person, you get a surprisingly comprehensive experience that includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, lunch, bullet train tickets, and private guiding—all tailored to give you a smooth, insightful visit. Whether you’re fascinated by historic architecture, scenic islands, or local spirituality, this tour covers a lot and does so with a personal touch.

What we especially like about this trip is how it balances stunning vistas—like the panoramic views from Riguang Mountain—against deep cultural insights provided by knowledgeable guides. Plus, the inclusion of local lunches means you get a taste of genuine cuisine without any hassle.

One potential consideration is the speed of the schedule—it’s packed, with each day filled from morning to late afternoon, which might leave some travelers wishing for a little more time at each site. But for those eager to see a wide swath of Xiamen and its surroundings in just two days, this is an efficient and rewarding choice.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who want a balanced mix of scenic, cultural, and architectural highlights without the stress of planning every detail themselves. If you value guided insights, comfortable transportation, and a well-organized itinerary, you’ll find this trip both enjoyable and informative.

Key Points

Comprehensive experience: Visits to Gulangyu Island, Nanputuo Temple, and Fujian Tulou provide a broad view of Xiamen’s culture and architecture.
All-inclusive value: Entrance fees, lunch, train tickets, and private guiding are included, minimizing unexpected costs.
Authentic local encounters: Enjoy traditional Chinese meals and explore historic villages, offering genuine culture.
Stunning vistas: Elevated views from Riguang Mountain and scenic walks along Kulangsu Huandao Road are highlights.
Balanced schedule: The itinerary offers a good mix of sightseeing and leisure, though it can be a full day for some.
Personalized tour: Private guiding ensures flexible, tailored attention, ideal for travelers seeking comfort and insight.

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Exploring the Highlights of Xiamen and Fujian Tulou

When we talk about Xiamen, it’s a city that beautifully blends coastal charm with historical depth. This tour captures that essence, starting with the renowned Gulangyu Island, often called a “garden on the sea” because of its lush scenery and colonial architecture. With the tour guide leading you from your hotel at 9:00 am, your first highlight is a quick 20-minute ferry ride—an experience in itself, offering a relaxed start to your day.

Gulangyu Island: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Gulangyu is a place where palm-lined streets and European-style villas meet traditional Chinese elements. The three hours here include a visit to Riguang Mountain, the island’s highest point, which offers sweeping views of the entire island and even Xiamen beyond. You’ll be able to see the city’s skyline and harbor, making for memorable photos.

The guide’s storytelling brings the architecture and history of the island alive—highlighting its reputation as a cultural hub. We loved the way the garden and seaside scenery blend seamlessly, making it an ideal spot for a gentle walk and some quiet reflection.

The Elegant Xiamen Shuzhuang Garden and Piano Museum

Next, you’ll visit Shuzhuang Garden, famed for its beautiful landscaping and breathtaking sea views. The highlight here is the Piano Museum, home to an eclectic collection of antique pianos from around the world—an unexpected delight for music lovers and history buffs alike. This site shows a different side of Chinese garden design, emphasizing harmony with nature and artistic elegance.

The Sacred Nanputuo Temple and Kulangsu Huandao Road

After returning to the main island via ferry, you’ll enjoy a local lunch—an essential part of the authentic experience. Post-lunch, the visit to Nanputuo Temple offers a glimpse into Buddhist traditions that have shaped the region for centuries. The temple’s long-standing history (dating back to the Tang dynasty) and its status as a “Temple of a thousand years” make it a significant spiritual site.

The day wraps up with a leisurely stroll along Kulangsu Huandao Road, a scenic coastal walkway originating from Xiamen University. It’s a perfect way to unwind, soaking in views of the ocean and city skyline while soaking up the local atmosphere.

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Day Two: The Fascinating World of Fujian Tulou

The second day pushes further inland, taking you into the heart of Hakka culture with visits to Tianluokeng Tulou Clusters and Yuchang Building. With a 2.5-hour ride from Xiamen, the journey itself sets the scene for a contrast—rural landscapes and traditional earthen structures that seem almost like living history.

Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster: A Marvel of Architecture

The highlight here is the panoramic view from the viewing platform, where you can see the “Four Dishes and a Soup” arrangement—three round tulou buildings and one oval, all well-preserved and strikingly picturesque. These structures were built as fortified communal homes by the Hakka people, designed to withstand both natural and human threats. From this vantage point, the scale and ingenuity of the architecture become clear.

Yuchang Building: The Oldest and Tallest Tulou

After a traditional Hakka family lunch, you’ll explore Yuchang Building, constructed between 1308-1338. Its size and height make it a standout among Tulou structures—impressive both for its age and architectural achievement. Walking through its corridors offers a tangible sense of the communal living style that defined this region for centuries.

Ta’xia Village: A Living Cultural Heritage

The final stop is Ta’xia Village, established in 1426 during the Ming Dynasty. It’s a small, peaceful village with a stream running through it and is recognized as one of China’s “landscape villages.” Here, you’ll see a quieter, more rural aspect of Hakka life and perhaps meet some locals.

Returning to Xiamen

After a full day of exploring earthen fortresses, traditional architecture, and village life, you’ll relax during the drive back, reflecting on the contrast between urban Xiamen and the ancient, rural Tulou.

Practicalities and Value

This tour’s pricing at $498 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you unpack what’s included—private guide, entrance fees, lunches, train tickets, and transportation—it becomes clear that it’s a good value for a luxury, hassle-free experience. The private guide’s local knowledge truly enhances the visit, offering insights and stories you wouldn’t get from a guidebook.

The transportation is comfortable and efficient, with air-conditioned private vehicles making long transfers more pleasant. The timing is well planned to maximize your sightseeing without feeling overly rushed, although some may wish for a bit more time at each site.

Reviews highlight how professional the guides are and how stunning the views can be, with one reviewer noting that the tours are very professional and of high standard, and that the transportation was “superb.” The inclusion of local lunches adds authenticity and convenience—no need to search for places to eat, and you get to taste regional specialties.

The two-day schedule is intensive, but for travelers with limited time in Xiamen, it offers a comprehensive introduction. It’s especially suitable for those eager to see both coastal scenery and traditional Chinese architecture in one trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates guided experiences with knowledgeable locals, this tour offers a smoothly organized journey through some of southern China’s most iconic sites. It’s ideal if you want a balanced itinerary—combining scenic vistas, cultural sites, and historical architecture—without the hassle of planning transportation or entry tickets yourself.

Travelers interested in UNESCO sites, Hakka culture, or traditional Chinese village life will find this particularly engaging. The inclusion of Gulangyu Island makes it a good choice for those who love scenic coastal walks, while the Tulou visits appeal to those curious about rural architecture and communal history.

The Sum Up

This 2-day private tour offers a compelling blend of coastal beauty, cultural landmarks, and historic architecture—all with the ease of private guiding and inclusive pricing. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want a comfortable, insightful introduction to Xiamen and the Hakka earth buildings of Fujian.

You’ll enjoy the stunning views from Riguang Mountain, the cultural richness of Nanputuo Temple, and the architectural marvels of Tulou clusters—all in a well-organized, private setting. The inclusion of authentic local lunches and transportation makes this a hassle-free way to experience the region’s highlights.

If you’re after a deep dive into both coastal and rural China—with knowledgeable guides at your side—this tour delivers good value and memorable moments. It’s best suited for curious travelers who want a focused, guided experience with a mix of scenic beauty and cultural depth, all packed into just two days.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private guide, transportation by private vehicle, entrance fees, bottled water, and two lunches.

Are the entrance fees covered for all sites?
Yes, all entrance fees for the sites listed in the itinerary are included.

How long are the visits at each site?
Visit durations vary, but generally, expect around 1 to 2 hours at each major site, giving enough time to explore and absorb the surroundings.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children should be accompanied by an adult. You might want to consider their stamina for the full schedule.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and perhaps a camera. Bottled water is provided, but you might want extra if it’s a hot day.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if advised at the time of booking. Just be sure to specify any dietary requirements.

How long is the total duration?
Each day is approximately a full day, around 8 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and meals.

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for personalized pacing and attention.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While the tour can be enjoyed year-round, spring and autumn tend to have the most pleasant weather for sightseeing.

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded, private experience of Xiamen’s highlights paired with the fascinating architectural wonders of Fujian Tulou. It’s perfect for those who want a deep, authentic taste of southern China’s coast and countryside, all wrapped into a manageable two-day adventure.