Zhongshan Road is Xiamen's main commercial pedestrian street, located near the waterfront and ferry terminal to Gulangyu Island. The airport is uniquely close to the city center—only about 10km away.

About Xiamen City Center (Zhongshan Road)

Zhongshan Road is Xiamen's most famous commercial street, a charming pedestrian boulevard lined with qilou (arcade-style shophouses) reflecting the city's Southern Fujianese and overseas Chinese heritage. The covered walkways shelter shoppers from rain and sun while browsing local tea shops, seafood restaurants, and souvenir stores. The street runs from the harbor toward the island's interior, bustling day and night.

Xiamen (historically known as Amoy) is one of China's most livable and attractive cities, a subtropical island metropolis where bougainvillea-draped lanes lead to seaside promenades. The Nanputuo Temple, a renowned Buddhist complex at the foot of Wulao Mountain, draws pilgrims and tourists alike. Xiamen University, widely considered China's most beautiful campus, features colonial-era buildings and a lake surrounded by tropical gardens. The city's mild climate, clean air, and laid-back pace offer a refreshing contrast to China's megacities.

Nearby Landmarks

Zhongshan Road Nanputuo Temple Xiamen University Zhongshanlu harbor promenade

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $3-5 (20-35 CNY)
Time 15-25 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

Take BRT Line 1 (Bus Rapid Transit) from the airport to the city center. The BRT runs on dedicated lanes and is fast and efficient. Alternatively, city bus routes 27 and 37 serve the airport.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $3-5 (20-35 CNY) 15-25 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Train $0 (2 CNY) 25 minutes Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Buses run until approximately 10:30 PM. After that, taxis and Didi operate 24/7. A late-night taxi from the airport to Zhongshan Road costs about 30-40 CNY ($4-6). The city is compact and rides are always affordable.

Luggage Tips

Taxis and buses handle luggage easily for this short trip. Zhongshan Road's pedestrian area is flat and smooth for rolling suitcases. The nearby ferry terminal to Gulangyu has luggage facilities.

Accessibility

Xiamen's newer buses and BRT have low-floor boarding. The airport and city center have good accessibility infrastructure. Zhongshan Road pedestrian zone is flat and accessible. Older neighborhoods may have uneven surfaces.