Marco Polo Group Hotels Near Gezi Square

Mandarin Oriental, Gulangyu is a top choice near Geyi Square, offering elegant rooms with sea views and direct access to the square’s scenic pathways. Located just a 5-minute walk away, it blends traditional Minnan architecture with modern luxury. The hotel provides complimentary shuttle services to major attractions on the island and features a renowned restaurant serving authentic Fujian cuisine.

Guests can enjoy cultural experiences like sunrise jazz performances on the square’s lawn or evening strolls along the coastal trail, where golden sunsets illuminate the red-tiled rooftops of Gulangyu. Its prime location makes it ideal for travelers seeking both comfort and immersion in local heritage.

Take the Gulangyu Ferry from the square—just a 10-minute ride across the strait with frequent departures and affordable fares (around ¥25). Upon arrival at Xiamen's mainland terminal, transfer via metro or bus to central districts like Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street.

For a more convenient option, pre-book a private car service; the journey takes about 20 minutes and costs ¥80–120. The ferry is especially recommended as Gulangyu Island is car-free, making walking and electric vehicles the only transport modes. Use the official "Xiamen Transport" app to check real-time schedules and optimize your route.

Don’t miss the daily "Oral History Talks" at 10:00 AM on the square, where local residents share stories behind the island’s century-old buildings. In the afternoon, visit Shuzhuang Garden, a fusion of Chinese and Western garden design, showcasing exquisite landscaping and historical artifacts.

At night, attend the "Sea Whisper Night" event—an open-air poetry and music performance by the seaside. Weekly handicraft markets also take place every Saturday, offering handmade fans, lacquerware, and Minnan paper-cut art—perfect souvenirs that support local artisans. These immersive activities offer deep insight into the island’s living culture.

Absolutely! Geyi Square is highly family-friendly with safe, green spaces and child-oriented facilities. Stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Gulangyu, which offers spacious family suites, a kids’ pool, and free guided workshops for children.

Families can join the Marine Life Discovery Camp, led by experts who teach kids about intertidal zone ecosystems. Parents can relax on the grassy lawns while children play safely under supervision. Clear multilingual signage and shaded benches make navigation easy for elderly relatives. With clean air and lush surroundings, this area is perfect for memorable family getaways.

Yes! The square itself is a prime photo spot, especially during sunrise, when sunlight glints off the bronze pigeon statue, creating dramatic shadows. Must-visit locations include:

• Baigua Tower Plaza: A striking European-style building with colorful stained-glass windows, ideal for portraits;
• Twin Towers Square: Symmetrical clock towers form a visually balanced backdrop;
• Coastal Path Curve: A winding stone path with blue railings, perfect for romantic or travel photography.

Pro tip: Use a smartphone wide-angle lens for expansive shots and shoot during golden hour for soft, glowing light. Wear simple-colored outfits to stand out against the serene setting.

Originally named Ma Zou Square, it was built in the late 19th century as one of Xiamen’s first public squares after the port opened. The bronze pigeon sculpture symbolizes peace and freedom, inspired by British colonial symbolism later reinterpreted by locals as a metaphor for "flying toward the future."

Historically, the square hosted trade meetings, civic gatherings, and major social movements. Today, it is designated a National Cultural Heritage Site, hosting regular exhibitions and community events. Exploring its past adds depth to your visit, transforming the square from a mere landmark into a living narrative of cross-cultural exchange.