Gulangyu Island, near Xiamen

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We decided to venture across the water to Gulangyu, a small island across the water from Xiamen, where many old colonial buildings and historical sites are still standing. There are beautiful trees, some of which are 200+ years old, and gardens as well.

Gulangyu in Pinyin literally means, "Piano Island." The island was home to a famous music school and contains the world's largest piano museum (we'll catch that one the next time around!)

One great thing about Gulangyu is that it is not very crowded. It also has NO vehicles, save for a few electric golf carts that drive elderly folks and lazy tourists around.

The first thing that one sees upon arrival on the ferry is a beautiful garden. The next thing in sight is...McDonalds!

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Photos

Statue of General Zhong
Viewed from a distance on Gulyangyu. Gorgeous park and beach surrounds the statue.

Villa courtyard, Gulangyu
Very beautiful!

Catholic Church on Gulyangyu - Jesus
Yes, he's here too!

Forner Japanese consulate
Another view.

Former Japanese consulate on Gulangyu
It's now an apartment building for many families, but you can tell it was once a spectacular place!

Garden near ferry dock
McDonald's is around the corner, to the left!

Photo op!
Engaged couples dress up in wedding attire and come to Gulangyu to take wedding photos for gifts and publication. This was one of many couples I saw roaming the island.

Funny name for a real estate firm
There's a joke in this name, for sure!

Typical Gulangyu street
Tree lined villas and courtyard walls. No vehicles, no horns, no crowds. What's not to love?

Typical villa gate
Entrance to a villa courtyard on Gulangyu.

Want fresh seafood?
All of the restaurants here have stuff still swimming for you to choose from.

Another engaged couple
Should we scream - SAVE YOURSELVES! DON'T DO IT?

Long haul transportation
Since the island does not allow cars of trucks, everything is hauled by cart.

One of many colonial buildings
Not only are there no crowds on the island, the architecture is very interesting. A nice escape for the day!

Looking across Xiamen harbor to Gulyangyu
The statue of General Zhong sits atop Gulangyu, looking across the water towards Taiwan. On a clear day, one can see one of the Taiwanese islands from here - and with binoculars, one can even see soldiers patrolling the coast!

Ferry ride across Xiamen harbor to Gulyangyu
The ride is only 5 minutes. It is free to Gulangyu and costs 8 Yuan (a little over $1US) to return.

High relief sculpture of Gen. Zhong
Poetry garden on Gulangyu

Park entrance on Gulangyu
This is the entrance to the park you go through to get to the the Gen Zhong statue