Encounter the Romance of the "Orange Sea"

Gulangyu Island at dusk is Xiamen's most tender poem. As the salty sea breeze carries the sound of the piano over the red tiles, and as the setting sun dyes the sea a flowing orange, this small island begins its unique healing moment of twilight. Here's your guide to experiencing the best of Gulangyu's sunset 👇 🚢 Getting to the Island: Unlock the Secret Realm for ¥35 - Ticket booking: Search "Xiamen Ferry" on WeChat, and book round-trip tickets from Xiamen Ferry Terminal to Sanqiutian Ferry Terminal (¥35) one day in advance. The journey takes 15 minutes. - Arrival time: It is recommended to arrive before 3pm, allowing 2 hours to stroll through the streets and alleys, and avoid the early morning rush hour on weekends. 🌅 Top 3 Sunset Viewing Spots: Capture the Twilight 1. Swallowtail Mountain Ecological Park - Located in the northeast of the island, the rocky beach faces the western sea, making it suitable for capturing silhouettes of "sunset + fishing boats." It's recommended to arrive before 5:30pm to secure a good spot. 2. Gangzai Back Beach - The beach is gentle, perfect for lying down and watching the "orange sea" spread beneath your feet. You can buy coconuts from nearby snack stalls to enjoy with the sunset. 3. Sunlight Rock - At an altitude of 92.7 meters, you can overlook the entire island. At sunset, the buildings are gilded. Separate tickets are required (¥50), and it's recommended to reach the top before 5pm. 🍜 Twilight Treats: Enjoy Snacks While Waiting for the Sunset - Must-try snacks: ✔️ Lin Ji Fish Balls (No. 56, Longtou Road): ¥15 for a double serving (shark + cuttlefish balls) with a sweet and savory soup. ✔️ Shen's Minnan Rice Noodle Rolls: Thin rice noodle rolls drizzled with peanut sauce, paired with pickled radish to cut through the richness. ✔️ Ye's Ma Chi: A mobile stall selling glutinous rice balls coated in sesame and peanut crumbs, chewy and not sticky. - Sunset restaurant: The terrace of Lijiazhuang Cafe faces the sea directly. Order an iced Americano and watch the sunset sink into the sea. 👣 Wandering Tips: Enjoy Your Solo Time - Recommended route: Sanqiutian Ferry Terminal → The Most Beautiful Corner → Boat House → Former HSBC Building → Gangzai Back Beach → Swallowtail Mountain - Things to avoid: No need for guided tours. The island covers an area of 1.91km², and you can explore it on foot or by renting a bicycle. Be cautious of the "Turkish ice cream" internet sensation, and beware of interactive routines. ⚠️ Twilight Warning: Safety and Romance Coexist - Return time: Sunset is around 7pm in summer, so it's recommended to leave the island before 8pm (last ferry at 9pm). In winter, prepare to return before 6pm. - Nighttime reminder: Streetlights in the old villa area are dim, so avoid narrow alleys when walking alone. If you need to explore at night, Longtou Road's main street is well-lit. As the last rays of sunlight sink into the Lujiang River, the romance of Gulangyu Island continues—perhaps it's the sound of a guitar from around the corner, or the aroma of tea wafting from a guesthouse. The sunset in this sea garden is not only a visual feast but also a sanctuary for the soul. Next time you visit, remember to bring your camera and your stories, and write your own Xiamen memories in the gentle embrace of the orange sea. 🌇✨