Homeland Taiwan, just a few KM away
by THLIN
You could take a short boat trip from Xiamen to have a look Kinmen. Due to anachronistic reason, people from both sides of the sea are not allowed to contact with each other for more than 50 years. Thanks to governments from both sides, now they are able to meet each other as much as they want.
Kinmen is an island under Taiwan (R.O.C) administration; while Xiamen is under Communist (P.R.C) rule. The systems are not the same. When Xiamen is trying its best to become bigger, Taiwan government decides to make Kinmen a national park to commemorate those days when KMT was fighting with Communists.
Now you may take a short boat trip departing from ferry quay, it costs RMB126/106. You will have a close look at my lovely Kinmen.
An old coastal fort - Huli Fort
by SLLiew
Huli Fort is another major tourist destination in Xiamen.
At the top of the Fort, is a panaromic viewing of the harbor including the outlying island of Jin Mei of Taiwan.
Xiamen was one of the few ports first opened to Europeans by the Qing Dynasty after the defeat of the Opium War to the British. This cannon fort was not at par to handle the "hairy barbarians". Ironically, the cannons were actually German made.
Beautiful resort city - Xiamen
by gordonye
Xiamen (Amoy) is one of the most beautiful and pleasant sea-side cities in China. Its balmy weather, scenic coast and islands, and clean and orderly streets are wonderful. The resplendent villas originally built by Europeans and rich Chinese merchants in 19th century on Gulangyu island gives it a historical charm that happily marries its spectacular setting.