Huandao Road
Xiamen Huandao Road, a 43-kilometer coastal paradise, weaves along China’s southeastern coastline, blending azure seas, golden sands, and vibrant culture. Built in the 1990s as a scenic byway, it’s now a UNESCO-recognized "International Marathon Gold Route" and a beloved escape for locals and tourists alike. Lush greenery, art installations, and panoramic vistas of Taiwan Strait make it a must-visit symbol of Xiamen’s coastal charm
Historical Overview
Construction began in 1991, transforming a gritty shoreline into a recreational marvel. Inspired by Xiamen’s maritime heritage, the road merges modern urban planning with traditional Hokkien aesthetics. Key milestones include the 2000 upgrade into a pedestrian-friendly promenade and the 2017 addition of bike lanes ahead of the BRICS Summit. Today, it embodies Xiamen’s evolution from a fishing village to a global tourist hub.
Structural Layout
The route stretches from Marathon Square in the north to Xiamen University’s Baicheng Beach in the south, divided into three sections:
1. Northern Coast: Rugged cliffs, tidal pools, and the iconic “Five Bridges” sculpture.
2. Central Belt: Sandy beaches, cycling paths, and the bustling Zengcuo’an village.
3. Southern Stretch: Academic vibes near Xiamen University, sunset views at Huangcuo Beach, and the whimsical Coconut Wind Castle.
Key Attractions
Zengcuo’an: A bohemian village with cafes, boutiques, and street art.
Huangcuo Beach: Perfect for sunset strolls and kite-flying.
Coconut Wind Castle: A fairy-tale fortress with ocean vistas.
Marathon Square: Starting point for Xiamen’s annual international race.
Xiamen University Coast: Academic charm meets coastal beauty.
Cycling Lanes: 30km of dedicated bike paths with rental stations every 2km.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (2–3 hours):
Marathon Square → Zengcuo’an (lunch) → Huangcuo Beach (sunset) → Return via bike lane.
Highlights: Street art, seafood, and golden-hour photos.
- Family-Friendly Route (4 hours):
Coconut Wind Castle → Playgrounds → Xiamen University Coast → Picnic at Baicheng Beach.
Highlights: Kid-friendly parks and calm waters.
- Adventure Route (Full Day):
Rent e-bikes → Northern Cliffs (tide pools) → Central Beaches (parasailing) → Southern Academic Zone (historic buildings).
Highlights: Thrill-seeking activities and cultural contrasts.
Access & Fees
Entrance: Free (24/7 access).
Bike Rentals: ¥10–30/hour (electric bikes available).
Parking: Paid lots at major attractions (¥5–10/hour).
Transportation
By Bus: Routes 29, 48, or B3 to Zengcuo’an/Huangcuo stops.
By Metro: Line 1 to Zhenhai Road Station, then 15-minute taxi ride.
By Taxi: Direct to Marathon Square or Baicheng Beach.
By Bike: Shared bikes (HelloBike/Meituan) at metro exits.
Best Time & Tips
Peak Hours: Avoid 10 AM–4 PM on weekends; visit early (7 AM) or late (5 PM).
Crowds: Weekdays are quieter; festivals (e.g., Mid-Autumn lanterns) draw crowds.
Weather: Spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Sep–Nov) are ideal.
Essentials: Sunscreen, hydration packs, and a portable charger for bike GPS.
Pro Tip: Download the “Xiamen Bike Map” app for real-time routes and rest stops.
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What Our Clients Say?
Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews
Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s):
Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2024
Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories.
Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s):
Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
June 02,2025
Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic!
Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale.
For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return.
A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s):
Zhangjiajie
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2025
FAQ
Are there places suitable for couples or friends gatherings on Huandao Road?
Beachside cafes in Huangcuo, offering sea-view seats for coffee or drinks; the "Starlight Campground" near Jinshan Beach, where you can camp and stargaze; and the "Coastal Beer Garden" in Zengcuo'an, with live music and seafood platters for group celebrations.
Are there dedicated cycling lanes or walking paths on Huandao Road?
Yes, there is a 30-kilometer dedicated coastal cycling lane, separated from vehicle traffic, running parallel to the road. Additionally, a 5-kilometer wooden plank walkway stretches from Zengcuo'an to Huangcuo, ideal for walking, jogging, or enjoying the sea views at a leisurely pace.
Are there any ocean-related cultural activities on Huandao Road?
Annual events include the "Xiamen International Ocean Festival" with beach clean-ups and marine conservation lectures; "Fishermen's Song Performances" in Zengcuo'an, where locals sing traditional sea shanties; and seafood festivals showcasing Minnan-style seafood cooking techniques.
Is there a family-friendly special route on Huandao Road?
A family-oriented route could be: Visit the Xiamen Xiamen Underwater World near Hulishan, then have a picnic at Jinshan Beach Park with playgrounds for kids, followed by a leisurely walk along the "Coconut Tree Avenue" to enjoy the sea breeze and take family photos.
Are there any historical or cultural attractions along Huandao Road?
Hulishan Fortress, a late Qing Dynasty military stronghold with well-preserved cannons; the statue of Zheng Chenggong in Gulangyu View Square, commemorating the national hero; and the Ancient Fish King Stone in Zengcuo'an, a historic landmark with local folklore.
