The Fort was completed in 1896 as part of the coastal defense of Xiamen. Before entering the fort you should take advantage of a spectacular view of the ocean and coast line. The whole fort has a park-like feel to it with beautiful landscaping and flowers.  The Fort houses an enormous, well preserved German-built cannon which was one of the largest cannons ever built.  The 208 millimeter caliber, 14 meter long cannon had a range of about 10,000 meters.  As well, the Fort has interesting exhibits of distinctively shaped and patterned stones; many types of smaller caliber cannons; swords and guns.

Any one coming to Xiamen has to see Gulangyu (鼓浪屿)or “Drum Wave Islet.”  You’ll be mesmerized by the beauty of the island as you approach it during the 10 minute ferry ride.  Upon disembarking the first thing you will notice is there are no vehicles of any kind (not even bicycles are allowed) other than quiet electric tour cars.  You will also be struck by the varied old-world architecture of prominent buildings on Gulanyu.  The islet was home to many foreign consulates (Britain, France, Japan, Germany, Spain, Denmark, Portugal, Holland, Austria, Norway, Sweden, the Philippines, the U.S. and Belgium) during the Western Concession period, prior to the second world war.

Strolling through the winding streets and hills you will often hear classical music being played. Since early in the twentieth century music, and particularly the piano music, has been a passion of Gulangyu residents who have dubbed the islet “Piano Island” or “Music Island.”  Several famous musicians and China’s first female conductor have come from Gulangyu.  Located here is China’s largest piano museum boasting of 30 pianos over 100 years old.  Also for the music minded traveler, are a music hall with frequent concerts, an organ museum and a music academy.

For tourists who are looking for bargaining practice, hone your skills with small shop owners along the streets right after you leave the terminal.  Pearls, paintings, paint-within glass art, wood and stone carvings, jewelry of all kinds, silk articles and clothing are just a beginning list of the things to purchase at bargain prices.  Don’t be put off by the merchants trying to get you to come into their shops – they are just trying to make a living too.

Wondering through the streets is a real treat.  Looking at the colonial style homes and buildings will make you feel like you have taken a trip back into a more peaceful and serene world.  But it’s not just a museum as many of the homes are still lived in.  Taking an electric tour car around the island is worth while as you can stop for a stroll on the beaches and view attractions and then get on to a later car.