How to Enjoy a Visit to Gu Lang Yu Island, China

Gu Lang Yu (Drum Wave island) is across the water from Xiamen, China. It's an unusual gem and well worth visiting. Gu Lang Yu is less than 2 square kilometers and does not allow motorized vehicles. The quiet island provides a break from the urban chaos of the rest of China.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Get to Gu Lang Yu Island by taking a five-minute ferry ride. It departs from the end of Zhongshan Road in Xiamen. The ferry runs 24 hours a day.
2. Hike the Island Ring Road—a 4km road that takes you around the island.
3. Take a tour via on an electric cart. You'll find the tour companies when you get off the ferry. It's a fun way to see the island and you can get off the carts and explore when you like.
4. Visit Sunlight Rock, the island's highest point. Climb to the top for an excellent view of Xiamen City, Nanputuo Temple, Xiamen University and Hulishan Battery.
5. See Shuzhuang Garden. Formerly a private villa, the garden has been open to the public since the 1950s. It is divided into the Garden of Hiding the Sea (Canghaiyuan) and the Garden of Making-Up Hills (Bushanyuan).
6. Hop on the ferry to get back to Xiamen. You'll need to buy a token in advance. Be aware that It is more expensive than the ride over.