Timeline
09:00
Start at the Xiamen Underwater World. You do not need to pay the ¥90 admission to enjoy the spot. Step outside the big blue building and take in the Jules Verne-esque octopus statue. It is a striking landmark and a perfect photo op before the crowds arrive.
09:15
Walk three minutes to Longtou Shark Meetballs. Order the fish balls stuffed with pork and cooked in a savory soup. This is a quick, authentic bite that keeps you moving. The shop is open from 08:30 to 20:00, so it is ready for you.
09:40
Head south to Shuzhuang Garden (菽莊花園). The walk takes about twelve minutes. Explore the grounds named after the wealthy businessman Lin Erjia. Look for the 44 bridge and the Piano Museum. The garden offers a peaceful retreat from the main thoroughfares.
Local tip
The Xiamen Underwater World closes its ticket sales one hour before closing time. If you visit later in the day, check the hours for your specific season: 08:00-21:00 from April to October, and 08:00-18:30 from November to March. Longtou Shark Meetballs closes at 20:00.
Check before you go
- Xiamen Underwater World hours vary by season: 08:00-21:00 (Apr-Oct) or 08:00-18:30 (Nov-Mar). No entry in the last hour.
- Longtou Shark Meetballs is open 08:30-20:00.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Xiamen/Gulangyu (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).