Xiamen continues to rise as one of China’s most dynamic destinations for global travelers. The coastal city in Fujian now attracts visitors who seek culture, scenic landscapes, modern comforts, and vibrant urban life. Recent figures highlight a dramatic growth in international arrivals and cultural activity. These developments position Xiamen as a major force in the country’s tourism revival.
Strong investments in transportation, cultural projects, and international events fuel this rapid growth. Xiamen blends historic charm with stunning coastal scenery, creating a unique experience that appeals to both leisure travelers and business visitors.
Tourism Numbers Reach Record Highs
Xiamen welcomed 128 million visitors in 2024, showing strong momentum that surpasses pre-pandemic levels. Tourism revenue reached 191.1 billion yuan, marking a major increase compared to 2019. These numbers reflect the city’s popularity among domestic and international travelers.
The inbound tourism market shows impressive performance. In 2024, Xiamen recorded 2.31 million overnight international tourists, almost triple the figure from 2023. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, the city ranked among China’s top five destinations for overseas tourists. This surge highlights Xiamen’s growing international appeal.
Cultural Industry Expands with Major Events and New Projects
Xiamen strengthens its cultural identity through large-scale events and industry development. The China Film Golden Rooster Awards take place in the city each year. The event increases the city’s influence in film, music, and television. During the most recent ceremony, over 170 cultural and film projects were signed, deepening Xiamen’s position as a leading cultural hub.
Over the past five years, 784 cultural enterprises in Xiamen recorded annual revenues above 20 million yuan. Combined, these companies generated 260 billion yuan in revenue. This shows how culture and tourism now work together to drive economic growth.
Authorities created more than ten themed tour routes that guide visitors through scenic attractions and filming locations. These routes improve access to Xiamen’s iconic destinations and highlight its growing film tourism market.
World-Class Attractions Strengthen Xiamen’s Tourism Appeal
Xiamen hosts 21 A-level scenic attractions, offering travelers a mix of natural beauty and cultural depth. Key highlights include:
- Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its architecture and music culture.
- Xiamen Botanical Garden, featuring lush landscapes and diverse plant collections.
- Xiamen Fantawild Dreamland, a popular theme park for families.
The city’s combination of modern amenities and coastal scenery draws international visitors who seek both relaxation and cultural enrichment.
Infrastructure Improvements Boost Global Connectivity
Xiamen invests heavily in transport infrastructure to support tourism and trade. The city now operates a modern, multimodal network that includes air, rail, sea, road, and postal services.
Strengthened Port Capacity
Xiamen Port expanded by adding 16 new berths, including six berths that handle 10,000-ton vessels. The port maintains 187 shipping routes connecting 150 ports across 54 countries, making Xiamen a major maritime gateway in Asia.
High-Speed Rail Enhances Domestic Access
The Fuzhou-Xiamen high-speed railway, launched in 2023, is China’s first cross-sea high-speed rail line. With speeds up to 350 km/h, it links key coastal regions and allows travelers to reach major cities in nearby provinces within hours.
Improved International Air Travel
Enhanced flight routes and streamlined airport services make Xiamen more accessible to global travelers. These improvements support the city’s fast-growing inbound tourism market.
Trade and Tourism Strengthen Each Other
The China International Fair for Investment and Trade, held annually in Xiamen, attracts businesses from around the world. The fair welcomed participants from 172 countries and regions over the past five years. Nearly 3,500 investment projects were signed, with total investment exceeding 2.35 trillion yuan.
This high level of international engagement increases Xiamen’s visibility and drives business travel growth. The city benefits from strong trade links, a thriving retail sector, and expanding cultural tourism. Combined, these factors create a vibrant environment for both visitors and investors.
Retail and Urban Development Enhance Visitor Experience
Xiamen improves urban spaces to support both local life and tourism. Retail sales increased from 245.78 billion yuan in 2020 to 332.98 billion yuan in 2024, reflecting rising consumer activity.
The city now operates:
- 3 major city-level business districts
- 12 district-level business zones
- Specialized commercial streets, including Zhongshan Road, recognized as a national model pedestrian street
These areas offer shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences that appeal to global visitors.
Xiamen’s Growth Ensures a Bright Future for Tourism
Xiamen’s combination of heritage, nature, modern infrastructure, and cultural energy drives its rise as a global destination. Visitors enjoy a city that offers island landscapes, world-class attractions, thriving cultural events, and smooth travel connections.
With continued investment in tourism quality, cultural development, and international engagement, Xiamen stands ready to welcome even more travelers in the coming years. The city’s momentum signals a new era of global recognition and long-term tourism success.
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