Fujian Xiamen

1.Gulangyu Island

Gulangyu Island,Xiamen's crown jewel and one of China's most enchanting island escapes!As we board the short ferry ride from downtown,you'll immediately understand why this car-free paradise is called the "Piano Island"-the sea breeze seems to carry melodies from its hundreds of pianos.This 1.87-square-kilometer UNESCO World Heritage site is a living museum of colonial architecture,with over 1,000 perfectly preserved villas blending Southern Fujian,European,and Southeast Asian styles.Every winding cobblestone street tells stories of tea merchants,missionaries,and musicians who shaped this unique cultural melting pot.

The island's magic lies in its harmonious contrasts.At dawn,follow locals to Sunlight Rock,the island's highest point,for breathtaking 360-degree views as sunrise paints the Taiwan Strait in gold.By midday,explore the Organ Museum housing the world's largest collection of antique pipe organs,or lose yourself in the "Eight Lanes" area where shophouses sell delicate lace and fragrant oolong tea.As evening falls,the beachfront transforms into a musical paradise-street performers play classical pieces under banyan trees while the waves provide nature's rhythm section.Don't miss trying local specialties like seafood pancakes and peanut soup at family-run cafes tucked in colonial courtyards.

What makes Gulangyu truly unforgettable is its living heritage.Over 200 resident families still maintain the island's musical legacy-you might hear Chopin drifting from an open window!The newly restored Historic International Settlement area reveals fascinating stories through interactive exhibits.Whether you're hunting for vintage ceramics in the morning market,learning to make traditional puppet show figurines,or simply watching ships glide by from a veranda cafe,Gulangyu casts a spell that lingers long after your visit.

2.Zengcuoan

Zengcuoan,Xiamen's most artistic fishing village turned bohemian paradise!Just a stone's throw from downtown,this vibrant seaside community has transformed from a sleepy settlement into China's hippest creative hub while keeping its authentic charm.As we stroll through the maze-like alleys,you'll be surrounded by colorful murals,indie boutiques housed in traditional Fujian courtyard homes,and the irresistible aroma of street food grilling over open flames.This is where Xiamen's young artists,musicians,and dreamers come to create-and where travelers discover the city's most Instagram-worthy corners!

The magic of Zengcuoan lies in its beautiful contradictions.At the Fisherman's Wharf,weathered boats still bring in the day's catch as they have for centuries,while nearby,hipster cafes serve avocado toast with sea views.Don't miss the Artist Alley,where local painters work in open studios beneath red-tiled "swallowtail" roofs,or the Night Market where you can snack on everything from oyster omelets to "rainbow" cotton candy.The village's five ancient temples stand just steps from trendy hostels,their incense smoke mingling with the scent of craft coffee-a perfect symbol of Zengcuoan's blend of old and new.

What makes this place truly special is its living creativity.Every weekend,impromptu concerts pop up in converted courtyards,and you might stumble upon a poetry slam or indie film screening.The "Love Notes Wall" covered in handwritten messages from travelers worldwide keeps growing daily.Whether you're bargaining for handmade ceramics,getting a henna tattoo from a roaming artist,or just watching the sunset from the sandy beach at the village's edge,Zengcuoan offers an unforgettable taste of Xiamen's free spirit.

3.Nanputuo Temple

Nanputuo Temple,Xiamen's most sacred Buddhist sanctuary and a breathtaking architectural masterpiece nestled at the foot of Wulao Peak!As we approach this 1,000-year-old temple complex,you'll immediately feel a sense of tranquility wash over you-the air fragrant with sandalwood incense,the rhythmic chanting of monks blending with the chime of prayer bells.This vibrant center of Mahayana Buddhism isn't just a religious site;it's a living cultural treasure where spirituality,history,and stunning natural beauty come together in perfect harmony.

The temple's layout is a fascinating journey through Buddhist philosophy.We'll enter through the majestic Heavenly King Hall,guarded by four formidable celestial guardians,then progress through the Great Buddha's Hall with its magnificent golden statues.The real highlight is the Great Compassion Hall,housing a breathtaking thousand-armed Guanyin statue adorned with gold leaf.Don't miss climbing the stone steps behind the temple where you'll find the "Buddha's Hand" rock carving and panoramic views of Xiamen University and the sea beyond.Every corner reveals exquisite details-from the swooping "swallowtail" roof ridges to the delicate porcelain mosaics telling Buddhist parables.

What makes Nanputuo truly special is its living traditions.At dawn,join locals for the free vegetarian noodles served in the temple kitchen-a 300-year-old practice of compassion.You might witness monks debating scriptures in the courtyard or practicing calligraphy with water brushes on stone.The temple's famous Buddhist College trains monks from across China,and their evening chanting ceremonies (open to respectful visitors) are profoundly moving.Whether you're admiring the lotus ponds,rubbing the lucky "Fu" character stone for blessings,or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere,Nanputuo offers a soul-nourishing escape from modern life.

4.Xiamen University

Xiamen University,China's most breathtaking campus where academic excellence meets tropical paradise!Founded in 1921 by renowned philanthropist Tan Kah Kee,this "Garden University" spreads across sweeping lawns and palm-lined avenues with the sapphire Taiwan Strait as its backdrop.As we pass through the grand Main Gate,you'll immediately understand why this is called the "Cambridge of the East"-historic red-roofed buildings in Southern Fujian style blend seamlessly with modern landmarks,all framed by lush banyan trees and the sweet scent of frangipani flowers.

The campus is a living museum of architectural wonders.Don't miss the Furong Tunnel,China's longest campus graffiti corridor where student artists transform 1.5km of tunnel walls into ever-changing masterpieces.The Humanities Quarter showcases elegant 1920s buildings with traditional swallowtail roofs,while the futuristic Science & Art Center resembles crashing waves.At the Swan Lake,black and white swans glide past lotus flowers,and if you're lucky,you might spot the resident peacocks displaying their feathers!The campus' own Beach Gate opens directly onto golden sands-perhaps the world's only university where students can attend lectures with surfboards in tow.

What makes XMU truly special is its culture of openness.The campus hosts China's first overseas education college and welcomes thousands of international students annually.Visit the Tan Kah Kee Memorial Museum to learn about its founding ideals,or simply relax at one of the courtyard cafes where professors and students debate over cups of Fujian oolong tea.Whether you're admiring the sunset from Lu Jiang Tower,browsing indie bookshops in the student quarter,or trying the famous "XMU Burger" at campus food stalls,you'll feel the creative energy that's nurtured Nobel laureates and tech billionaires alike.

5.Huandao Road

Huandao Road,Xiamen's breathtaking 43-kilometer coastal beltway that seamlessly blends urban sophistication with stunning natural beauty!Affectionately called the "Golden Necklace" by locals,this scenic route wraps around the entire island like a sparkling ribbon,connecting sandy beaches,rocky coves,and lush parks.As we begin our journey,feel the fresh sea breeze and watch the sunlight dance on the Taiwan Strait-this meticulously designed roadway is consistently ranked as China's most beautiful urban coastal route,and you'll soon understand why!

The magic of Huandao Road lies in its diverse landscapes and activities.The eastern section features the famous "Bicycle Skyway",an elevated cycling path where you can pedal past coconut palms with unobstructed ocean views.Don't miss the Music Square near Baicheng Beach,where wave-shaped architecture hosts open-air concerts against a sunset backdrop.Further south,the Hulishan Cannon Fort section combines historical military relics with dramatic cliffside walking trails.Every few kilometers,you'll discover charming rest stops-try the "sea flavor" ice cream at yellow-bricked Zengcuoan Station or fresh oysters grilled roadside by local fishermen!

What makes this coastal road truly special is its round-the-clock vitality.At dawn,join locals practicing tai chi on the "Moon Over Coconut Crown" platform.By midday,parasailers dot the skies above pristine beaches.As evening falls,the entire route illuminates with artistic lighting-the "Pearl Strings" installation makes the palm trees glow like jewelry.Whether you're jogging the dedicated running tracks,photographing the "I Love Xiamen" sculpture at sunset,or simply relaxing at a beachfront café watching container ships glide by,Huandao Road offers the perfect introduction to Xiamen's easygoing coastal lifestyle.

6.Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street

Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street,the vibrant heart of Xiamen where history,commerce,and local culture come alive under your feet!As we step onto this 1.2-kilometer marble-paved avenue,you'll immediately notice the unique "arcade architecture"-rows of elegant Nanyang-style buildings with covered walkways that blend Southern Fujian elements with colonial charm.This iconic street,named after Dr.Sun Yat-sen,has been Xiamen's commercial center since the 1920s,and today it thrums with energy from morning till midnight,offering an unforgettable sensory journey through authentic Minnan culture.

The magic of Zhongshan Road lies in its delicious contradictions.At street level,modern flagship stores glow with neon signs,while looking upward reveals intricate stone carvings of phoenixes and lotus flowers adorning century-old facades.Don't miss the hidden "branch alleyways" like Daxue Road,where generations-old snack stalls serve up sizzling oyster omelets and peanut soup.The beautifully restored Bank of China Building now houses trendy boutiques,while the Christian Gospel Church still holds services in its 1935 sanctuary-a testament to Xiamen's multicultural heritage.Every evening,the street transforms into a foodie's paradise as hundreds of lantern-lit carts roll out,offering everything from "Buddha Jumps Over the Wall" dumplings to exotic tropical fruit platters.

What makes this pedestrian street truly special is its living traditions.Watch third-generation artisans hand-pull peanut candy using ancient techniques,or join locals bargaining for pearl jewelry at the night market.The side streets reveal surprises like China's only piano-shaped hotel and miniature puppet theaters performing classic Minnan stories.Whether you're shopping for lacquerware souvenirs,admiring the light shows on historic buildings after dark,or simply people-watching from a traditional tea house balcony,Zhongshan Road offers the perfect introduction to Xiamen's unique blend of nostalgia and modernity.

7.Sunlight Rock

Sunlight Rock,the crown jewel of Gulangyu Island and Xiamen's most iconic natural landmark!Standing 92.7 meters above sea level,this massive granite monolith has been attracting adventurers and poets for centuries with its breathtaking 360-degree panoramas.As we begin our climb up the ancient stone stairway,you'll feel the same excitement that once inspired famous Chinese writer Lin Yutang to call this "the most perfect viewing platform in Southeast China." The higher we go,the more spectacular the views become-with each turn revealing postcard-worthy scenes of red-tiled colonial villas,the glistening Taiwan Strait,and Xiamen's modern skyline in the distance.

The rock's fascinating geological and historical layers unfold as we ascend.At the midway point,we'll discover the "Ancient Summer Cave",a natural granite shelter where Ming Dynasty general Zheng Chenggong (Koxinga) once trained his troops to resist the Qing invaders.Further up,the "Dragon Head Temple" clings dramatically to the cliffside,its incense smoke mingling with the sea breeze.The most thrilling section is the final ascent-a narrow staircase carved directly into the rock face leading to the "Heavenly Platform",where on clear days you can see all the way to Jinmen Islands.Don't miss rubbing the "Sun Moon" inscription for good luck,left by a Qing Dynasty calligrapher who was so moved by the sunrise view here.

What makes Sunlight Rock truly magical is how it changes personality throughout the day.Dawn visitors are rewarded with the legendary "Sunlight on Rock" phenomenon when the first rays set the granite ablaze in golden light.Mid-morning brings cheerful groups of local retirees practicing tai chi on the observation decks,while sunset transforms the rock into a romantic silhouette against colorful skies.The newly installed night lighting creates an entirely different spectacle after dark,when the illuminated rock appears to float above the island.Whether you're a history buff,photography enthusiast,or simply seeking the best views in Xiamen,this natural wonder promises an unforgettable experience.

8.Shuzhuang Garden

Shuzhuang Garden,a breathtaking seaside masterpiece where classical Chinese garden artistry meets the boundless beauty of the ocean!Nestled along Gulangyu Island's southern coast,this 1913 private villa-turned-public paradise perfectly embodies the poetic concept of "borrowing scenery"-seamlessly incorporating natural landscapes into its design.As we pass through the elegant moon gate entrance,you'll immediately understand why this is considered China's most romantic coastal garden,with its pavilions seemingly floating on the azure waters of the Taiwan Strait.

The garden unfolds like a living painting through its two distinct sections.The "Hidden Sea Garden" surprises visitors with its ingenious design-a winding covered corridor suddenly opens to reveal an unexpected panorama of the ocean,creating a dramatic "ah-ha" moment that has delighted guests for over a century.Don't miss the "Forty-Four Bridge",a poetic zigzag walkway spanning tidal pools where you can watch fish dart between your feet during low tide.The Piano Museum housed in the original villa showcases rare antique instruments,their melodies carried by the sea breeze through open windows-a magical fusion of cultural and natural harmony.

What makes Shuzhuang truly enchanting is how it changes with the tides and seasons.At high tide,the "Rockery Maze" becomes a series of charming islands,while sunset transforms the "Moonlight Pavilion" into a golden silhouette against the water.The garden's famous coastal rock formations display nature's artistry,with wave-eroded shapes resembling sleeping lions and crouching tigers.Whether you're strolling through the bamboo groves,admiring the chrysanthemum exhibitions in autumn,or simply sitting by the "Listening Wave Pavilion" as surf crashes against granite,every corner offers serene beauty.

9.Baicheng Beach

Baicheng Beach,Xiamen's most beloved urban shoreline where golden sands meet academic charm just steps from Xiamen University!This crescent-shaped paradise,stretching nearly 1 kilometer along Huandao Road,offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and youthful energy.As we kick off our shoes and feel the warm,fine sand between our toes,you'll immediately notice why locals call this the "campus beach"-students jog along the shoreline at sunrise,professors debate over coconut drinks at sunset,and the iconic Xiamen University buildings frame the landscape like a postcard.

The beach's magic lies in its effortless mix of activities and relaxation.The southern end features the famous "Rainbow Bridge",where couples attach colorful love locks to the railings with ocean views as their backdrop.Don't miss the tidal pools at low tide,perfect for discovering starfish and hermit crabs with kids.The beachfront promenade buzzes with street performers,fruit vendors selling freshly-cut mangoes,and artists sketching portraits.For the best photo op,time your visit with the magical hour when the setting sun aligns perfectly with the ancient Hulishan Fortress in the distance,creating a stunning silhouette against the orange sky.

What makes Baicheng truly special is its 24/7 coastal lifestyle.Early risers can join local fishermen hauling in their nets at dawn,while night owls gather around bonfires (in designated areas) under starry skies.The beach's gentle slope and lifeguard patrols make it ideal for safe swimming,and rental shops offer everything from surfboards to rainbow parasails.Whether you're building sandcastles with the kids,cycling the dedicated bike path that runs parallel to the shore,or simply soaking up the sun with a chilled coconut in hand,Baicheng serves up the quintessential Xiamen seaside experience.

10.Hulishan Fortress

Hulishan Fortress,Xiamen's legendary coastal defense marvel that stands guard where history meets breathtaking ocean views!Built in 1894 during the Qing Dynasty,this strategic stronghold on the southern tip of Xiamen Island was once called "the Iron Gate of China" for its impenetrable defenses.As we walk through the massive granite gates,you'll feel transported back to an era of naval warfare,where this fortress protected China's southeastern coastline with some of the world's most advanced artillery of its time.The salty sea breeze carries echoes of history here,mingling with the excited chatter of visitors discovering one of China's best-preserved coastal fortifications.

The fortress's star attraction is undoubtedly the Krupp Cannon,a Guinness World Record holder as the largest existing 19th-century coastal gun!This German-made steel giant weighs 60 tons and could fire shells up to 16 kilometers across the Taiwan Strait.Don't miss the thrilling cannon-firing demonstration (daily at 10am and 4pm),where costumed reenactors bring history to life with smoke and sound effects.The newly renovated Exhibition Hall showcases fascinating artifacts from Xiamen's maritime defense history,including ancient torpedoes and intricate models of warships.Climb to the observation deck for panoramic views where the East and South China Seas meet-on clear days you can see the outline of Jinmen Islands!

What makes Hulishan truly special is how it blends military history with natural beauty.The fortress walls double as perfect sunset-viewing platforms,while the surrounding coastal trail leads to hidden coves and rock formations.Every October,the fortress grounds transform into a spectacular venue for the International Kite Festival,when colorful kites dance above the ancient battlements.Whether you're exploring the underground ammunition stores,posing with the bronze soldier statues,or simply enjoying an ice cream while admiring the ocean vistas,Hulishan offers an unforgettable journey through time.

11.Xiamen Botanical Garden

Xiamen Botanical Garden,a lush 4.93-square-kilometer wonderland where nature's artistry takes center stage against the backdrop of Wanshi Mountain!Known as China's "Garden of Gardens," this living museum showcases over 7,000 plant species from around the world,carefully curated across thematic zones that blend seamlessly with Xiamen's natural granite landscapes.As we enter through the tropical palm-lined avenue,you'll immediately feel the air become fresher-the garden produces enough oxygen to be called the city's "green lungs," and those giant leaves rustling above us are actually nature's own air purifiers!

The garden's iconic zones each tell a different botanical story.The Rainforest World transports you to the Amazon with its misty waterfalls and hanging vines (don't miss the 10am "tropical rain" simulation!).The towering Cactus and Succulent Zone features thousands of desert plants in surreal shapes-some over 3 meters tall-creating perfect Instagram backdrops against Xiamen's skyline.For traditional Chinese garden beauty,the Bamboo Grove whispers with 200+ bamboo varieties,their leaves dancing in the breeze like nature's wind chimes.The newly opened Medicinal Plants Zone reveals how ancient healers used these green wonders-smell the aromatic mint varieties that sailors once chewed to combat seasickness!

What makes this garden truly magical is its interactive experiences.Time your visit to join the morning tai chi sessions among the bonsai trees,or attend weekend workshops where you can pot your own mini succulent garden.The Cloud Rock Scenic Area offers panoramic city views from giant granite boulders that predate dinosaurs!Don't be surprised to encounter peacocks strutting freely or wedding photoshoots capturing love stories amid the blossoms.Whether you're riding the scenic shuttle between zones,picnicking under century-old fig trees,or hunting for the garden's famous "chocolate tree"(its flowers really smell like cocoa!),every turn reveals new wonders.

12.Xiamen Fantawild Dreamland

Xiamen Fantawild Dreamland,where fairy tales come alive and thrilling adventures await at every turn!This massive 140-acre theme park brings together cutting-edge technology,Chinese cultural elements,and world-class entertainment to create an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.As we step through the colorful castle gates,you'll immediately feel the magic in the air-with whimsical music floating from Bavarian-style buildings,the smell of freshly-made churros tempting your taste buds,and the excited screams from roller coasters echoing in the distance.This isn't just an amusement park;it's a wonderland where ancient legends meet futuristic fun!

The park's six themed zones each offer unique adventures."Dino World" transports you back to prehistoric times with its life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and the heart-pounding "Dragon Coaster" that twists through Jurassic landscapes.Don't miss "The Legend of Nezha",an immersive dark ride that brings the classic Chinese myth to life with stunning 4D effects and motion simulation-you'll feel like you're flying alongside the young hero!For little ones,"Magic Castle" offers gentle rides and interactive shows featuring beloved characters,while thrill-seekers will love "Lightning Speed",one of Asia's fastest wooden roller coasters that races along at 100 km/h!

What makes Fantawild truly special is how it celebrates Chinese culture through high-tech storytelling.The "Myth of the Rainbow" show combines breathtaking acrobatics with holographic projections,telling a beautiful folktale about the origins of the rainbow.As evening falls,the park transforms into a dazzling wonderland during the "Kingdom of Lights" parade,where illuminated floats and performers bring the streets to life.Whether you're battling pirates in a 360-degree theater,rafting through mythical Chinese landscapes,or simply enjoying cotton candy while watching street performers,Fantawild promises a day full of laughter and wonder.

13.Jimei School Village

Jimei School Village,a breathtaking open-air museum of architecture and education that blends Southern Fujian charm with global influences!Founded by the legendary philanthropist Tan Kah Kee in 1913,this unique "school town" stretches along a picturesque coastline,where red-roofed academic buildings harmonize with lotus ponds and swaying palms.As we stroll down the tree-lined Xueyuan Road,you'll immediately notice the distinctive "Jimei style"-a fusion of Eastern and Western designs with ornate swallowtail roofs,Roman columns,and intricate Fujian stone carvings.This isn't just a campus;it's a living testament to one man's vision of combining tradition with modern education!

The village's architectural gems tell fascinating stories.The centerpiece Nanxun Building resembles a majestic palace with its eight-sided pagoda tower,while the Aoyuan (Olympic) Swimming Pool was Asia's most modern facility when built in the 1950s.Don't miss the Jimei Ancestral Temple,where Tan Kah Kee's educational philosophy comes alive through historical exhibits.The "Dragon Boat Pond",framed by classroom buildings,transforms into a racing arena during the annual Dragon Boat Festival,when hundreds of paddlers compete beneath cheering students.Every corner reveals thoughtful details-from the seashell-embedded walls that shimmer in sunlight to the covered walkways connecting all buildings (Tan's practical solution for rainy days)!

What makes Jimei truly special is its living academic atmosphere.You might encounter marine biology students sketching boats in the harbor or international scholars debating in the Tan Kah Kee Memorial Square.The nearby Jimei Night Market buzzes with student energy,offering local treats like oyster pancakes and taro sweets.Whether you're admiring sunset reflections in the alumni pier's "Eternal Peace" pavilion,browsing the museum's collection of Tan's global correspondence,or simply soaking in the youthful vibe at a campus café,this village embodies the perfect marriage of culture and education.

14.Wuyuan Bay Wetland Park

Wuyuan Bay Wetland Park,Xiamen's ecological masterpiece where urban life harmonizes with nature's tranquility!Spanning over 85 hectares,this stunning coastal wetland is fondly called the "city's green kidney" for its vital role in maintaining Xiamen's biodiversity.As we step onto the wooden boardwalk,you'll immediately feel transported from the bustling city-the air fills with birdsong,the breeze carries the scent of seawater and blooming reeds,and the rhythmic lapping of waves against the mangrove roots creates nature's symphony.This carefully preserved sanctuary proves that modern development and environmental conservation can beautifully coexist!

The park's ingenious design showcases diverse ecosystems.The Mangrove Maze,with its winding waterways,serves as a natural nursery for juvenile fish and a paradise for birdwatchers-look for elegant egrets perched in the branches or rare black-faced spoonbills wading in the shallows.Don't miss the "Lotus Heart" observation tower,offering panoramic views of the entire wetland and the iconic Wuyuan Bay Bridge.The Tidal Flats Exploration Zone comes alive during low tide,when visitors can spot fiddler crabs performing their signature sideways dance.Over 1,600 meters of elevated walkways let you explore without disturbing the delicate habitats beneath!

What makes Wuyuan Bay truly magical is its ever-changing beauty through seasons.Spring brings a pink carpet of seaside morning glories,summer transforms the lotus ponds into floating gardens,and winter welcomes migratory birds from Siberia.The park's Moon Bridge becomes especially romantic at dusk when its reflection forms a perfect circle on the water.Whether you're cycling the eco-trails,attending a wetland conservation workshop,or simply relaxing in the grass amphitheater listening to wind chimes made of seashells,every moment here reconnects you with nature's rhythms.

15.Xiamen Underwater World

Xiamen Underwater World,where the mysteries of the ocean come alive beneath the iconic Gulangyu Island!Housed in a charming colonial-style building at the foot of the Piano Pier,this aquatic wonderland takes you on an unforgettable journey from the Taiwan Strait's shores to the world's deepest ocean trenches.As we enter through the giant coral archway,you'll immediately feel the magic-sunlight filters through water tanks,casting dancing blue reflections on the walls,while the sound of waves blends with children's delighted gasps at their first glimpse of sharks gliding overhead!

The highlight is undoubtedly our 84-meter ocean tunnel,the longest in China when built in 1998.Walk beneath swirling schools of glittering fish as graceful manta rays "fly" overhead and giant groupers peer curiously through the glass.Don't miss the daily diver shows (10:30am&3pm) where performers hand-feed sharks while explaining marine conservation.The Taiwan Strait Exhibit showcases local species like the rare Chinese white dolphin,while the Coral Kingdom bursts with colors that rival rainbows.Kids adore touching sea stars in the tidal pool,and the newly upgraded Jellyfish Galaxy Room-where hundreds of pulsating moon jellies drift through neon-lit tanks-makes everyone reach for their cameras!

What makes our aquarium truly special is its living connection to Xiamen's maritime heritage.The original 1940s pier pilons were incorporated into the building's design,and local fishermen still bring unusual catches to our marine biologists.Watch staff prepare meals for 10,000+ creatures in the open kitchen,or attend the "Behind the Scenes" tour to see how we rescue injured sea turtles.Whether you're marveling at the ancient-looking horseshoe crabs (virtually unchanged for 450 million years!),watching the playful otters somersault,or simply enjoying the cool tranquility away from Gulangyu's bustling streets,every exhibit tells a story about our precious oceans.