鼓浪屿

Synopsis

Overview

Gulangyu, located in the southwest of Xiamen City, Fujian Province, China, faces Xiamen Island across the Egret River. It is an island with an area of approximately 1.88 square kilometers. Known for its unique geographical location, profound historical and cultural heritage, and beautiful natural scenery, it is often called the "Garden on the Sea," the "Museum of International Architecture," and the "Piano...

Overview

Gulangyu, located off the southwestern coast of Xiamen City in Fujian Province, China, is an island of approximately 1.88 square kilometers facing Xiamen Island across the Lu River. Renowned for its unique geographical location, profound historical and cultural heritage, and beautiful natural scenery, it is often called the "Garden on the Sea," "Museum of International Architecture," and "Piano Island." In 2017, "Kulangsu: a Historic International Settlement" was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, confirming its global value as a model of cultural exchange between China and the rest of the world. The island is free of motor vehicles, preserving a tranquil and romantic atmosphere, making it an ideal destination to experience the blend of Chinese and Western cultures, appreciate architectural art, and enjoy leisurely time.

History

The history of Gulangyu can be traced back to the Song and Yuan dynasties, when it was originally named "Yuanshazhou" or "Yuanzhouzai." During the Ming Dynasty, it was renamed "Gulangyu" (Drum Wave Islet) after a reef on its southwestern shore that produced drum-like sounds when struck by waves. Following the signing of the Treaty of Nanjing in 1842, Xiamen became a treaty port. In 1844, Gulangyu was officially opened to foreigners. Subsequently, consulates from various countries, foreign residents, overseas Chinese merchants, and local elites built residences, churches, schools, hospitals, and more here, forming a historic international settlement featuring a coexistence of architectural styles including Southern Fujian traditional houses, Western Classical Revival, and Colonial Veranda styles. This unique history shaped Gulangyu's multicultural fabric.

Main Attractions

Gulangyu's attractions are rich and varied, primarily focusing on natural scenery, historical architecture, and cultural arts.

• Sunlight Rock (Riguang Yan): The highest point on Gulangyu, formed by two massive boulders leaning against each other. The summit offers panoramic views of the island and Xiamen city, making it an excellent spot for sunrise viewing. The area also includes the Zheng Chenggong Memorial Hall and historical cliff inscriptions.
• Shuzhuang Garden: Built in 1913, originally the private villa of Taiwanese businessman Lin Erjia. The garden ingeniously incorporates the mountain slope, sea views, and landscaping techniques like "hiding the sea" and "supplementing the mountain," divided into the "Garden of Hiding the Sea" and the "Garden of Supplementing the Mountain." The Piano Museum within the garden houses a collection of antique pianos, vividly embodying the "Piano Island" moniker.
• Haoyue Garden: Built to commemorate the national hero Zheng Chenggong. Its centerpiece is a majestic 15.7-meter-high granite statue of Zheng Chenggong standing on Fuding Rock, facing the sea.
• Bagua Building (Kulangsu Organ Museum): One of Gulangyu's landmark buildings, famous for its distinctive red dome. It now houses China's only and the world's largest organ museum, featuring a collection of organs from various countries and eras.
• Haitangong Gou: Built in the 1920s by overseas Chinese from the Philippines, Huang Xiulang and Huang Nianyi, it is one of the most stylish architectural complexes on Gulangyu blending Chinese and Western styles. One building is open to the public, displaying old photos and architectural models of Gulangyu, with regular performances of Nanyin music and puppet shows.
• Gulangyu Historical and Cultural Exhibition Hall: Located in the former British Consulate, it systematically presents Gulangyu's development from a island community to a historic international settlement through rich historical materials and artifacts.
• Bishan Tunnel and Longshan Tunnel: Air-raid shelters that traverse the island, now serving as convenient passages connecting different areas. The tunnel walls are often adorned with graffiti and messages from local residents, adding unique character.

Practical Information

The following information is general as of the end of 2023. It is recommended to verify before your trip.

References

1. UNESCO World Heritage Centre - Kulangsu: a Historic International Settlement
   https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1541/
2. Xiamen Gulangyu-Wanshi Mountain Scenic Area Administration Committee (Official Website)
   http://www.gly.cn/
3. Xiamen Ferry Co., Ltd. (Official Ticket Booking Platform)
   https://www.xmferry.com/