Featured Hotels Near Tongji Ancient Temple

Stay at Xiamen Jinlong Hotel, just a 5-minute walk from Tongji Temple, blending traditional Minnan architecture with modern comfort. The rooms feature red-brick rooftops and carved windows, offering subtle views of the temple’s historic façade. Special access via a private corridor allows early morning visits to the temple for quiet contemplation. Daily complimentary tea and snacks include local treats like peanut soup and turmeric rice cakes—perfect for immersing in authentic Xiamen culture. This is ideal for travelers seeking culturally rich accommodation.

After visiting Tongji Temple, head to Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street, just 800 meters away, where you can savor local delicacies such as Sha Cha Mian (spicy peanut noodles), oyster pancakes, and meat-filled zongzi. Participate in intangible cultural heritage workshops like lacquer thread carving or paper cutting, hosted by community centers near the temple. During festivals, witness lively lion dances and deity processions that reflect deep-rooted folk traditions. In the evening, stroll along Xiamen Harbor, watching the sunset illuminate the temple’s eaves—a serene moment capturing the essence of local life.

Tongji Temple is centrally located, making it easy to explore Xiamen. Take the Xiamen BRT bus from outside the temple—just 10 minutes to Luntai Pier, where ferries depart for Gulangyu Island. Alternatively, walk to Zhongshan Road Station and board Metro Line 1, reaching Zengcuoan or Huangcui in 3 stops. For a scenic route, rent an electric scooter near the temple and ride 20 minutes along Huan Dao Road to enjoy ocean breezes and sandy beaches. Combining metro, walking, and e-bike travel ensures seamless, efficient exploration across the city.

Choose Shangri-La Xiamen Hotel, about 3 km away but offering free shuttle service to Tongji Temple. The hotel features a children’s playroom, family pool, and nightly storytelling sessions. On-site, the "Minnan Culture Corner" offers interactive exhibits on temple history and local customs. Weekend family tours include guided walks through the temple and old streets, teaching kids how to make paper cuttings or write couplets. Kids’ meals use fresh local ingredients, and some dishes are prepared in traditional ways—ideal for family bonding with cultural education.

Visit between 6:30–8:00 AM for tranquil mornings with minimal crowds, perfect for quiet prayer and photography of intricate carvings and roof ornaments. During Lunar New Year or festival days (e.g., 1st and 15th of each month), experience vibrant rituals, live folk music, and offerings from local devotees. Book guided tours in advance—the guides offer deep insights into the temple’s Mazu worship traditions and historical significance. This early hour also pairs well with a morning tea break at a nearby teahouse, enjoying traditional Minnan Gongfu tea and the peaceful rhythm of dawn.

Try Aming Sha Cha Mian right outside the temple—open for over 40 years, this stall serves a rich broth made with shrimp paste, peanuts, and secret spices, paired with handmade noodles and tender pork liver. Another must-try is Chenji Turmeric Rice Cake, crafted from coastal sea worms (tǔxīng) and steamed to perfection, with a chewy texture and sweet sauce. Visit Kaihe Night Market every Saturday morning for over 100 food stalls offering fried five-spice buns, seaweed cakes, and peanut soup. Many vendors still prepare dishes by hand, allowing visitors to watch the craft—offering a true culinary journey through local heritage.