Baicheng Beach:A Poetic Transformation from Ancient Coastal Defense Fortress to Romantic Coastline

The Name Baicheng—A Thousand-Year Echo of the Ming Dynasty City Wall
The name"Baicheng"originates from a coastal defense story spanning six hundred years.In the 27th year of the Hongwu reign(1394),Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang of the Ming Dynasty sent Zhou Dexing,Marquis of Jiangxia,to Fujian to plan defenses and build city walls in Xiamen.One section of the coastal wall connecting Zhennanguan and Zhenbeiguan was named"Baicheng"because it was built with lime and had a white color.This section of the city wall stretches for several kilometers,from Hongshan Temple all the way to the present-day Shapowei area,and was an important part of the Ming Dynasty's Xiamen coastal defense system.The national hero Zheng Chenggong once trained his troops here and in the city's military drill ground,preparing for the recapture of Taiwan.

The Road to Rebirth—From Coastal Defense Fortress to Urban Beach
The modern story of Baicheng Beach is a dual chapter about historical preservation and ecological restoration:

Coastal Defense Years(1394-Modern Era):As part of the Zhenbeiguan defense line,the Baicheng city wall witnessed historical events such as Japanese pirate raids and the Opium War.The Qing army spent 2 million taels of silver to build the 1.6-kilometer-long"Stone Wall Fortress"(known as the"Long Row Fortress"by the British)on the beach below Baicheng,bravely resisting the British invasion during the Opium War.

The Gaze of a Literati(1926):During his time teaching at Xiamen University,Mr.Lu Xun mentioned Baicheng many times in his letters.In a letter to Xu Guangping,he wrote,"Not far from my residence is a city wall,which is said to have been built by him(Zheng Chenggong)."He also worried that"the sand at the foot of the wall is being stolen and sold to someone on Gulangyu Island across the water."

Ecological Tragedy and Restoration(1980s-2016):Construction encroaching on the beach caused severe erosion,resulting in significant sand loss.In 2001,the Xiamen Municipal Government imported China's first beach cleaning vehicle from Germany and put it into operation at Baicheng Beach.In 2016,a comprehensive cleanup of construction waste,including piles of rubble,was carried out.In 2023,scarecrows were used to guide tourists to dispose of bamboo sticks responsibly,protecting the cleanliness of the beach.

Rejuvenation(Present):Through ecological restoration projects,over 50,000 cubic meters of fine sand were added,some even sourced from Kinmen,resulting in finer and softer sand.Today,Baicheng Beach has become a vivid example of urban ecological restoration under the concept of"green mountains and clear waters."

>In-depth Understanding:Explore More Strolls Through China's Coastal Cities >> [Qingdao Badaguan]

Nature's Creation–A Romantic Landscape of Azure Sea and Silver Sand
The natural landscape of Baicheng Beach is an eternal dance of sea,sand,and light.

Azure Sea and Silver Sand:A Natural Bathing Beach in the City
As the most easily accessible beach in Xiamen's urban area,Baicheng Beach stretches for about 1 kilometer,with the sea winding for hundreds of meters.The sand is fine and soft,making it comfortable and safe to walk barefoot.It's not only a popular spot for tourists but also a daily leisure retreat for Xiamen residents.Giant mouse sculptures adorn the beach,adding a touch of modern fun.The semi-circular Baicheng Sky Bridge,resembling a giant clock,has become a landmark of the beach.

Stunning Sunset:A Romantic Poem in the Golden Afterglow
Baicheng Beach is an excellent location in Xiamen to watch the sunset,truly a"city sunset viewing platform."As the sun sets,golden rays bathe the sea,casting a magnificent silhouette against the backdrop of the Yanwu Bridge and the distant Shimao Twin Towers.It's recommended to arrive after 4 PM to secure a good spot on the boardwalk or rocky outcrop and capture the breathtaking moment of the"salted egg yolk falling into the sea"with a telephoto lens.At sunset,the sky is dyed a golden-red,and the sea shimmers,creating a breathtaking scene.

Cycling along the Island Ring Road:A Poetic Journey Between Mountains and Sea
Baicheng Beach is adjacent to Xiamen's famous Island Ring Road,a coastal highway hailed as"the most beautiful marathon route."Rent a bicycle and cycle along the road,with the azure sea and sky on your left and the bustling city on your right,the sea breeze caressing your face—a truly invigorating experience.The cycling route extends from Baicheng Beach to Zengcuo'an and Yefengzhai,offering stunning views of the coastline and cityscape along the way.

Beachcombing:Childhood Fun Between Tides
At low tide,the rocky area of​​Baicheng Beach emerges,making it a great spot for beachcombing.Bring a small shovel and bucket to dig for small crabs,clams,and other marine life.Learning beachcombing techniques from local grandmothers is a unique experience.You can also collect various kinds of seashells on the beach,making it a perfect way for families to connect with nature.

Photography Tips:
The best sunset viewpoint is on the extended section of the boardwalk,capturing the Twin Towers,Yanwu Bridge,and their reflections in the sea.
The Baicheng Sky Bridge is an excellent location for panoramic beach shots;at nightfall,you can capture the light trails of passing cars.
The rocky area is suitable for silhouette photography,and at low tide,you can capture unique reflection effects.
Drones are allowed to fly(be aware of no-fly zones),offering epic perspectives of the blend of mountains,sea,and city.

Humanistic Ingenuity—Hidden Memories of Coastal Defense
Every inch of this land carries the rich history of Xiamen as a vital coastal defense city.

Zhenbeiguan Ruins(Baicheng Ruins):A Ming Dynasty Pass Hidden in a Corner of Xiamen University
Looking northwest from Baicheng Beach,at the southeastern end of Xiamen University,a section of ruined city wall remains.This is the origin of the name"Zhenbeiguan Ruins"—Baicheng Beach.The wall was constructed using a mixture of sand,ash,soil,and fine gravel,and is approximately 25 meters long,0.5-0.6 meters thick,and 1.5-1.8 meters high.On a large rock beside the archway,the three characters"Zhenbeiguan"are powerfully written,signed by Zhang Aiping,former Minister of National Defense of my country.On the other side is an inscription by the late renowned anthropologist and ethnologist Professor Chen Guoqiang:"Zhenbeiguan is the site of the Baicheng Pass built during the Ming Dynasty to resist Japanese pirates.The national hero Zheng Chenggong once trained his troops here and in the city's drill ground."

Hulishan Fortress:A Steel Witness to a Century of Coastal Defense
Hulishan Fortress is about a 3-minute walk from Baicheng Beach.This place boasts the world's largest surviving coastal gun—the Krupp cannon,which famously struck the Japanese warship"Wakatake"during the Japanese invasion in 1937,achieving a remarkable feat.The fort was initially built in 1891(the 17th year of the Guangxu Emperor's reign),a product of the late Qing Dynasty's Self-Strengthening Movement,witnessing the rise and fall of modern China's coastal defense.

Lu Xun's Literary Imprint:A Trans-temporal Dialogue Between a Literary Figure and Baicheng
In 1926,Lu Xun came to teach at Xiamen University.Zhenbeiguan appeared several times in his letters to Xu Guangping:"I regret that I am not sensitive to natural beauty,so even when I encounter beautiful scenery,I am not particularly moved.But for several days,I could not forget the relics of Zheng Chenggong."These words add a rich cultural atmosphere to Baicheng Beach,allowing visitors to stroll along the beach as if engaging in a trans-temporal dialogue with the literary giant.

Five Must-Do Activities to Unlock the Relaxing Moments at Baicheng Beach
1.Chase a Stunning Sunset
Time:Arrive after 4 PM.Sunset is around 6:30-7:00 PM in summer and around 5:00-5:30 PM in winter.
Location:Extended section of the boardwalk(panoramic view),rocky area(silhouette view),Baicheng Sky Bridge(city and sea in a frame).
Equipment:We recommend bringing a camera or phone holder;a telephoto lens is even better.

2.Ride the Island Ring Road
Recommended Route:Baicheng Beach→Zengcuo'an→Coconut Wind Village→Convention and Exhibition Center,approximately 10 kilometers in total.
Rental Information:30 RMB for the first hour for a tandem bike,40 RMB for the first hour for a family/triple bike,deposit required.

3.Go Beachcombing
Time:Low tide;check the tide table in advance.
Equipment:Small shovel,small bucket,non-slip beach shoes.
Harvest:Small crabs,clams,shellfish,etc.

4.Taste Authentic Minnan Flavors
Must-Try Foods:Oyster omelet,satay noodles,Xiamen pancakes,ginger duck.
Recommended Restaurants:Linjia Minnan Cuisine(ginger duck,seaweed soup),Weiyou(duck noodles).
Snack Spots:Coconut vendors near the beach(about 10 yuan each),and there are also seaside food stalls to choose from.

5.Visit Historical Sites
Zhenbeiguan Ruins:Hidden within the Xiamen University campus,requires some searching.
Hulishan Fortress:25 yuan entrance fee,offers information on modern coastal defense history.

Suggested Itinerary

Half-Day"Romantic Sunset"Tour(Suitable for all tourists):
Depart from the city center at 3:30 PM→Take a bus to"Xiamen University Baicheng Station"→Stroll along the beach,take photos of the sky bridge and the mouse sculpture(30 minutes)→Walk west along the boardwalk to secure the best sunset view(1 hour)→Enjoy the entire sunset and take photos of the Twin Towers silhouette(30 minutes)→After nightfall,you can choose to cycle to Zengcuo'an for dinner,or walk to Shapowei and the Twin Towers for the night view(lights on at 7:40 PM)→Return after 8 PM.

IntoTravelChina Tip:This tour is relaxing and enjoyable.We recommend wearing comfortable sandals or beach shoes and bringing your own drinking water.

One-Day"In-Depth Leisure"Tour(Suitable for those with ample time):
Morning:Visit Hulishan Fortress(1.5 hours)→Stroll along Baicheng Beach,take photos of the sky bridge and the mouse sculpture(1 hour)→Walk west along the boardwalk to explore the reef area(1 hour).
Lunch:Enjoy Minnan cuisine(ginger duck,satay noodles)near the beach.
Afternoon:Rent a bicycle and cycle along the Ring Road to Zengcuo'an,browsing artsy shops and sampling snacks(2 hours)→Return to Baicheng Beach,secure the best spot for sunset(1.5 hours)→After enjoying the sunset,walk to Shapowei for lunch and night views.

IntoTravelChina Advantages:We can provide you with a customized cycling route map and tide charts for beachcombing,ensuring a worry-free and in-depth trip.>> [Consult for Customization Now]

How to Get There:Seamless Connection Guide
Baicheng Beach is located in the heart of Xiamen city,with extremely convenient transportation.There is no entrance fee,and it is open 24/7,year-round.

From all over the country,we recommend taking the high-speed rail to Xiamen Station(on the island)or Xiamen North Station(outside the island).Travel Tips:Xiamen Station is closer to Baicheng Beach,about a 15-minute taxi ride;from Xiamen North Station,take Metro Line 1 to Zhenhai Road Station and transfer to bus route 22.

From downtown Xiamen,public transportation is recommended.Travel tip:Take bus routes 2,20,22,29,47,48,87,92,96,122,135,751,or 857 to the[Xiamen University Baicheng Station].

From Gulangyu Island,take the ferry to Xiamen-Gulangyu Ferry Terminal and then transfer to a bus.Travel tip:After visiting Gulangyu Island,you can take a bus for about 30 minutes to reach Baicheng Beach.

Important Return Trip Reminder:If you plan to see the night view,it is recommended to plan your return route in advance.Traffic congestion around Baicheng Beach is severe,and some drivers avoid this area.You can choose to walk to Shapowei or Xiamen University West Village Station and then take a taxi,or take a bus to Zhenhai Road Station and transfer to the subway.

Best Time to Visit
Baicheng Beach is suitable for visiting in all seasons,but the atmosphere varies.The best time to visit is in spring and autumn,and on a clear evening.

Spring and Autumn(March-May,September-November):Pleasant climate and best scenery.Spring sunshine is gentle,and autumn skies are high and clear,making it an excellent time to watch the sunset.

Summer(June-August):Swimming and water sports are available,but be sure to protect yourself from the sun and avoid typhoon weather.Visiting after 4 PM is most comfortable.

Winter(December-February):Fewer tourists,perfect for strolling and sightseeing,but the sea breeze can be strong,so dress warmly.

Accommodation Options
Around the Scenic Area(Preferred):
Xiamen University/Shapowei Area:
Experience:Within walking distance of Baicheng Beach;abundant dining and shopping options;strong artistic atmosphere.
Suitable for:Tourists who want convenient access to sightseeing and to experience the slow pace of life in Xiamen.

Zengcuo'an Area:
Experience:Diverse guesthouse options with a wide price range;full of artistic and chic atmosphere.
Disadvantages:Crowded;some areas can be noisy.
Suitable for:Young tourists seeking personalized accommodation experiences.

City Center Accommodation(Flexible and Economical Options):
Zhongshan Road/Ferry Area:Convenient transportation,easy shopping,close to Gulangyu Island ferry terminal,ideal for combining sightseeing with other destinations.

Wuyuan Bay/Ring Road High-End Hotels:Beautiful environment,first-class facilities,suitable for travelers seeking a high-quality vacation experience.

IntoTravelChina Accommodation Booking Recommendations:
We recommend planning your trip and booking accommodation 1-2 months in advance,especially during holidays and peak summer travel seasons.Booking through us not only provides real-time room availability but also allows you to package accommodation,transportation,and tickets,often securing combined discounts.Tell us your budget and needs,and we will match you with the most suitable"seaside home.">>[Click to contact IntoTravelChina Travel Consultant]

Baicheng Beach is not the end of the journey,but the perfect starting point for exploring the wonderful culture of Xiamen and Southern Fujian.

Classic 3-Day Loop:Xiamen(Baicheng Beach,Gulangyu Island)→Nanjing Tulou(Yunshuiyao)→Quanzhou(Starting Point of the Maritime Silk Road).This is a perfect journey that blends seaside romance,World Heritage sites,and Southern Fujian culture.

Day Southern Fujian Cultural Tour:Connecting Baicheng Beach with Zhangzhou Volcanic Island,Dongshan Island,and Quanzhou Ancient City,experience the diverse Fujian from azure seas and silver sands to traditional red-brick houses.

The story of Baicheng Beach is about the beauty of nature,the weight of history,and the poetry of urban life.IntoTravelChina focuses on creating in-depth,personalized,and worry-free travel experiences in China.Our travel experts can help you:

Tailor-made itineraries:Design the perfect route including Baicheng Beach and surrounding attractions based on your interests and time.

One-stop service:Handle tickets(such as Hulishan Fortress),unique accommodations,transportation,local guides,and activity bookings.

Exclusive experiences:Arrange cycling guidance along the Island Ring Road,tide reminders for beachcombing,and planning for the best photography times.

Make your Baicheng Beach trip more than just sightseeing;it's an immersive experience of Xiamen life.

Start planning your trip now!
Contact our professional travel consultants for a customized itinerary and quote within 24 hours.
>>[Click to contact IntoTravelChina Travel Consultant]