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Xiamen
It is said that there is one Chinese city with a population of over one million inhabitants for every day of the year, but there is one city of 1.4 Million inhabitants that you will enjoy above most others. Xiamen is situated in the South East of China, in Fujian Province. Fujian Province is rich in commanding mountains and winding river valleys. This contrasts with the lush coastline, dotted with cities, whose trade links have, for centuries, kept China in touch with the outside world. Xiamen is regarded by many as the Jewel in Fujian's crown. Old world charm of a city which has prospered over the ages. Founded over 700 years ago in the early days of the Ming Dynasty, strategically positioned as a gateway for commerce and trade, the Xiamen of today still holds much of its old world charm, in a relaxed coastal setting. A beautiful setting and a rich history are of interest to those who visit Xiamen, and this 'old world charm' has many influences. In the sixteen Century the Portuguese arrived, followed by the British, Dutch, and French, all with limited success. In 1841 during the Opium wars, Xiamen or Amoy as it was known in the West was one of the first treaty cities, and was forced to open by the British. Xiamen is unique in China, as one of the only cities to still display its colonial past. Buildings of this era have been carefully restored, and provide a pleasant back drop to the lively and abundant city we see today. The City is well balanced with the past and ultra modern present sitting comfortably together. Xiamen is a city that appears quietly confident that it is well placed to be a part of modern China. As a visitor in this city, you feel that everything is laid back, and it is, yet everything seems to be in order, with a minimum of fuss. Xiamen has also been voted China's cleanest city.
A brief 10 minute ferry ride from the waterfront is the quaint and picturesque island of Gulang Yu or Piano Island. Designed and built by Xiamen's foreign community in the 1890's, Gulang Yu is a wonderful way to pass the day. Exploring the narrow lanes and admiring the colonial homes of yesteryear, it is easy to imagine the era of times gone by. At one time, home to the Western elite, at its height Gulang Yu produced its own English daily newspaper to cater for those privileged few. Gulang Yu retains its ambience and provides a visit to the past in contrast to the modernity found throughout China's eastern seaboard. Returning to Xiamen, and a seafood lover's delight. As a coastal city, fresh produce is mandatory and the locals will tell you that the Oysters and Shrimps are the best you will find anywhere. Don't forget to also try the Peanut soup, a delicious regional specialty.
After you have taken advantage of the ocean's own supermarket, it is time to relax as the Xiamenese do! Xiamen has many opportunities to pamper and unwind. No better example of this can be found at the Riyuegu Hot Springs resort, a thirty minute drive from Xiamen’s CBD. Indulgence and luxury surround you as you relax and rejuvenate through hot springs, used for their healing qualities for over 400 years.
Meaning 'performed with care', a traditional Gongfu tea ceremony highlights the skills required to make a truly great cup of tea. Locals maintain that the tea ceremony concentrates on the quality and aroma of the tea, not the quantity or cost.
First built during the Tang Dynasty (618-908) and rebuilt several times over hundreds of years, the Nanputuo Temple is still today a living and breathing temple with sounds of chanting heard through out the day. The large temple is modern looking and well worth a visit. Enjoy a Vegetarian lunch on site
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