Situated off the coast of Xiamen City, Gulangyu Island can be reached by ferry from Xiamen City in 5 minutes. Covering an area of 1.78km2, the island has 20,000 permanent residents, all of whom enjoy a healthy and placid life. Initially called Yuanshazhou Island , Gulangyu got its present name due to ocean waves hitting the huge reef. The sound generated resembled the beating of a drum. Therefore, the island was named Gulangyu . In Chinese, Gu means drum and lang means waves while yu means islet .
Owing to historical reasons, the structures remain well-preserved, giving it the nickname of "Architecture Exhibition of Ten Thousand Nations". Besides, Gulangyu is also well known as the Hometown of Music" and "Island of Pianos". Home to the only piano museum in China, the small island boasts of over 200 pianos. Meanwhile, Gulangyu also enjoys the good reputation of "Garden on the Sea", because it is delightful in all seasons, characterised by singing birds and fragrant flowers. Main attractions include Sunlight Rock, Shuzhuang Garden, Yu Park, Bright Moon Garden and Museum.
Owing to historical reasons, the structures remain well-preserved, giving it the nickname of "Architecture Exhibition of Ten Thousand Nations". Besides, Gulangyu is also well known as the Hometown of Music" and "Island of Pianos". Home to the only piano museum in China, the small island boasts of over 200 pianos. Meanwhile, Gulangyu also enjoys the good reputation of "Garden on the Sea", because it is delightful in all seasons, characterised by singing birds and fragrant flowers. Main attractions include Sunlight Rock, Shuzhuang Garden, Yu Park, Bright Moon Garden and Museum.