Step into White Deer Cave Temple where zen vibes have lingered for millennia! Nestled in Xiamen's mountains, this hidden gem blends dawn bell chimes with nature's symphony. Legend says a white deer attained enlightenment here - you can almost spot its hoofprints on the stone path. Don't miss the Song Dynasty cliff carvings and serene liberation pond, plus rubbing the "Heart-Cleansing Stone" for luck!

This hotel is a true urban oasis in Xiamen, nestled by the picturesque Yundang Lake and just a short walk from the famous café street and bars, offering stunning night views! The modern and comfortable rooms, some with lake or park views, are equipped with luxurious bedding for a perfect sleep. Don’t miss the creative dishes at "Dragon’s Abyss" Chinese Restaurant and the stylish all-day dining experience. With a pool, spa, and fitness center, you can unwind after a busy day. Whether for family trips or business trips, the thoughtful service and convenient location will exceed your expectations!

This hotel is perfect for family trips! With a kids' playground and play area, plus children's amenities, your little ones will have a blast. Enjoy the heated pool and fitness center, fun for all ages. Its prime location is close to the subway and MixC shopping mall, with stunning views of Xianyue Mountain – ideal for photos. The design blends Nanyang nostalgia with rainforest elements, creating a unique and comfortable stay. 24-hour front desk and robot service add a thoughtful touch to your experience.
Everything you need to know about White Deer Cave Si
Recommended stays include Shangri-La Xiamen, located just a 10-minute walk from Baile Dung Temple, offering elegant rooms with views of the South China Sea and lush gardens. The hotel features a private beach, rooftop pool, and traditional Chinese wellness center. For a more intimate experience, consider Gulangyu Sailing House, a heritage villa restored from a 19th-century family residence, featuring handcrafted wooden interiors, courtyard balconies, and personalized cultural tours to nearby temples and historic sites. Both properties provide easy access to the temple’s serene pathways and offer guided tea ceremonies and meditation sessions for guests seeking spiritual connection.
Another top choice is The Sea View Inn on Gulangyu, a boutique hotel with minimalist design and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the ocean. Guests enjoy complimentary breakfasts with local specialties like seafood dumplings and rice porridge, while the hotel’s concierge arranges private walking tours through ancient alleyways and hidden shrines near the temple.
The most efficient way is to take the Gulangyu Ferry from the island’s main dock (near Ryukaku Temple), which takes only 8 minutes to reach Xiamen’s Lujiang Pier. From there, you can transfer to Metro Line 1 or catch bus routes such as BRT 1 or 857 directly into the city center. For a scenic alternative, rent an electric bike at the ferry terminal and cycle around the island’s coastal path—passing by old villas, flower gardens, and seaside cliffs—before crossing via the Xiamen Bridge. This route offers panoramic views and takes about 40 minutes, ideal for travelers who appreciate slow travel and natural beauty. All options are well-marked, safe, and accessible year-round.
Guests can participate in morning bell and evening drum meditation sessions held weekly at the temple grounds, led by resident monks, combining mindfulness, chanting, and tea ceremony rituals. Another highlight is the Hokkien Guqin concert series, hosted every weekend in the temple’s open-air courtyard, blending classical Chinese music with ambient sea sounds. Visitors may also try hand-copying Buddhist sutras using brush and ink on rice paper—a meditative practice offered at the temple’s cultural hall. Guided tours delve into the temple’s Song Dynasty bricks, Ming-Qing era steles, and calligraphic couplets, revealing its deep roots in Confucian-Buddhist-Taoist syncretism. These immersive experiences foster a profound connection with local spirituality and heritage.
Must-try delicacies include Xiamen Sha Cha Mian, a rich, savory noodle soup made with shrimp paste, peanut sauce, and tender pork, served at renowned spots like Lin’s Fish Ball Shop and Aji Zi Sha Cha Noodles. For a flavorful snack, sample Luo Wei Mixed Pickled Meats, featuring marinated eggs, duck intestines, and tofu skin from Huang Family Pickles, known for their authentic century-old recipe. Vegetarian visitors should not miss the Temple Zen Feast at Yun Yin Vegetarian Restaurant, where seasonal ingredients like lotus root, bamboo shoots, and wild mushrooms are prepared with delicate balance and artistic presentation. All meals use fresh, locally sourced produce and reflect the region’s culinary philosophy of harmony between food and nature.
Family-friendly highlights include Gulangyu Children’s Museum, an interactive space featuring hands-on exhibits on maritime history and marine life, with themed play zones and live storytelling sessions. Nearby, Shuzhuang Garden boasts beautifully landscaped courtyards, a seaside promenade, and a children’s theater hosting puppet shows and traditional opera performances. The Ryukaku Mountain Trail offers a gentle climb with panoramic views of Xiamen Bay and surrounding islets, complete with rest stops and educational signage about native flora and fauna. The entire area is wheelchair-accessible, equipped with clear directional signs, and staffed with multilingual guides. These attractions ensure engaging, safe, and enriching experiences for all ages, perfect for creating lasting memories together.
The optimal visiting times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures hover between 20–25°C, ideal for hiking and outdoor exploration. During these seasons, the temple grounds bloom with plum blossoms and osmanthus flowers, filling the air with subtle fragrance. Early mornings (7–9 AM) are especially tranquil, offering peaceful moments for meditation and sunrise photography over the temple rooftops. For cultural immersion, visit during Lunar New Year or full moon festivals, when special rituals, lantern displays, and folk performances take place. Avoid summer holidays and National Day week, as crowds peak then. After rain, mist often drifts through the hills, creating ethereal scenes perfect for photography and reflection.
See what other travelers say about White Deer Cave Si

The lobby manager was exceptional—prompt, helpful, and made sure all my questions were answered quickly and efficiently. The hotel is beautifully situated right in the middle of a park, which made morning runs absolutely delightful. I was amazed by how passionate locals are about jogging—there were people everywhere, creating such an energetic vibe. Just behind the hotel is a charming pigeon plaza where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. My lake-view room had an incredible panorama—every time I opened the curtains, it felt like nature was right outside my window. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this place offers a perfect balance of tranquility and convenience. Highly recommended!

This was my solo trip to Xiamen for a training session, and staying at Urba Hotel (Xiamen Airport Huli Avenue) turned out to be one of the best decisions. I arrived late at night, and the staff immediately checked in to see if I had any special needs. Since I wanted a quiet room, they promptly assigned me a unit far from the elevator—perfect for a good night's rest. The next morning, I tried to sleep in but was disturbed by ongoing construction noise. Instead of just ignoring it, the front desk proactively offered to stop the work if it bothered me—I just needed to message them. They even followed up later via WeChat to confirm whether the noise had affected my rest. That level of care and attention is rare these days. The service went above and beyond, making the entire stay incredibly comfortable and stress-free. Highly recommend this hotel for both business travelers and solo visitors alike.

I originally booked just one night, but after checking in, I immediately extended my stay—something I rarely do! The hotel is located in a quiet villa area, offering a peaceful and serene atmosphere perfect for unwinding. Cleanliness was outstanding—the room was spotless, with fresh linens and a refreshing vibe that made me feel instantly at home. The staff were incredibly thoughtful; the team reached out beforehand with clear directions and even sent a short video of the arrival process, which was so helpful and reassuring. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable: just a 5-minute walk to Huangcuo Beach, where sunrise views are breathtaking. At night, the beach comes alive with energy—great for dinner, drinks, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze. I’ve stayed at many places in Xiamen, but this one truly stands out for its combination of comfort, service, and convenience. If you’re visiting Xiamen, don’t miss this gem—it’s worth every penny and more.

This place is absolutely perfect for a family getaway! We stayed in the family-friendly room, and it was spacious, clean, and thoughtfully designed—every little detail made a difference. The staff were incredibly welcoming and helpful, always going the extra mile to make sure we had a great stay. Located right in the heart of the tourist area, everything we wanted to see was just a short walk away. Best of all? It's literally steps from the beach—waking up to the sound of waves was magical. The cleanliness, comfort, and overall vibe are top-notch. I’d definitely come back and recommend this gem to anyone visiting Xiamen. Truly a standout experience.

This stay at Cheermay Hotel in Xiamen Airport Wuyuanwan was absolutely fantastic. The front desk staff went above and beyond—so friendly and helpful, even upgraded my room without hesitation! I highly recommend the view room with its floor-to-ceiling windows and spacious private balcony. Perfect for a morning coffee, afternoon breeze, or just hanging out with laundry spread across the space. The bathroom is smartly designed with complete separation between the shower area and toilet—very clean and practical. Everything from bedding to amenities felt top-notch, and the breakfast buffet offered great variety and fresh quality. It’s rare to find such comfort and attention to detail in a hotel this close to the airport. I’ll definitely be back next time I visit Xiamen!

My girlfriend and I stayed at this e-sports themed guesthouse during our trip to Xiamen, and it was absolutely fantastic! The room was spotless and incredibly well-maintained, with top-notch gaming gear including a high-end monitor, responsive keyboard, and comfortable headset—perfect for late-night gaming sessions. The bed was super cozy, making it easy to relax after a long day exploring the city. The staff were friendly and helpful, offering great tips on local attractions and even assisting with transportation advice. What stood out most was how clean and modern the space felt—every detail was thoughtfully designed for comfort and convenience. This was by far the most enjoyable stay we’ve had in Xiamen, and I’d definitely recommend it to any fellow gamers or travelers looking for a unique, high-quality experience.

Stayed with two kids for three nights and couldn’t be happier. The atmosphere was peaceful and spotlessly clean, both inside and out. Staff were incredibly friendly and attentive—daily room cleaning and fresh water refills made our stay so convenient. The pool was a big hit with the kids, who had a blast playing all day. We enjoyed complete peace and quiet throughout our stay, no noise at all. One of the unexpected highlights? If you’re lucky enough to be up late, you can spot fireflies near the hotel entrance—truly magical. I didn’t get any photos of the room, but it looked exactly like the official pictures: stylish, well-appointed, and full of character. Overall, this place exceeded expectations in every way. Great value, great vibe, and unforgettable memories—definitely coming back.

This was my second stay at this hotel, and as a local from southern Fujian, I’ve chosen it twice now when returning from Europe—just needing a quiet place to recover from jet lag. The experience was excellent: the room was spotless, spacious, and comfortably furnished. Its location is unbeatable—just a short walk to Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street and the bustling Baishi Market, with everything you’d want within easy reach. What stood out most was the incredible value for money—this is one of the few genuinely affordable yet high-quality hotels in Xiamen. The room quality rivals that of established luxury options like Lujing Hotel, but at a fraction of the price. My first visit? I originally booked another hotel nearby, but when I arrived and saw the worn-out exterior, I immediately canceled. Later, I passed by this property and noticed the clean, modern look, so I decided to check in. The staff were incredibly welcoming—they personally showed me through several room types, which helped ease my concerns. Their genuine hospitality made all the difference. It’s clear they care about guest comfort. Definitely coming back next time—and I’ll recommend them to anyone visiting Xiamen.

Staying at Ji Hotel (Xiamen Convention Center Lianqian East Road) was a truly refreshing experience—worth every single point of the perfect 10/10 rating. From the moment you step into the lobby, the minimalist Japanese-inspired design with warm wood tones and soft ambient lighting instantly calms your mind, creating a serene, almost meditative atmosphere. The room itself is immaculately maintained: the smart toilet works flawlessly, the HD TV delivers crisp picture quality, and the Wi-Fi is lightning fast—no buffering during streaming or work calls. The bedding stands out—medium-firm mattress, perfectly balanced for comfort, and a down duvet that’s light yet cozy enough to keep you warm all night. Staff are attentive and helpful; they greeted us warmly, shared details about laundry facilities and breakfast timing, and even offered a thoughtful late-night bowl of hot porridge. Cleanliness is top-notch—the bathroom features full dry-wet separation, with spotless white tiles and no lingering chemical smell in the towels. The lobby lounge area is a real gem—quiet, tastefully designed, with complimentary aromatic tea and a peaceful vibe ideal for working remotely or meeting a friend. The only minor drawback? The room size is compact, around 20 sqm—opening a 28-inch suitcase leaves little walking space, so if you're traveling with a partner, you might need to take turns unpacking. But for travelers who mainly sleep here and spend days exploring the city, the layout is efficient and functional. Overall, an excellent choice with strong value for money.

Stayed at Putian Hotel (Xiamen Mingfa Plaza) and was genuinely impressed by the outstanding value for money. The room was surprisingly spacious—far bigger than expected for the price—and everything was clean, well-maintained, and comfortable. The new front desk staff member, Yu Ni, was absolutely fantastic—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help. Even when we weren’t sure how to ask our questions, she patiently guided us through everything. Location is excellent too—just a short walk from Xiamen Railway Station and surrounded by great dining options. I’ll definitely be booking here again on my next trip to Xiamen!

We stayed here as a family, and we were thoroughly impressed! The hotel is perfectly located—just a short walk from the metro, quiet yet convenient, and surrounded by great local spots. Even though it's not brand new, the upkeep is excellent: clean rooms, well-maintained common areas, and a nice overall vibe that feels upscale for the price. We didn’t need to rely on rideshares—we could easily hail a cab right outside the door to get anywhere in town. The neighborhood is fantastic for food lovers: there’s a wide variety of eateries nearby. I especially recommend Wu Zai Tian Snack Shop—it’s a local favorite with authentic flavors. And yes, we finally got to try the famous balang (sea slug) jelly again, which was a nostalgic treat after years of missing it. If you're visiting Xiamen with kids or family, this hotel is a top pick!

This stay completely exceeded my expectations! The hotel's location is unbeatable—just a short walk from Songyu Wharf, making it super convenient for exploring the area. The lobby has a clean, minimalist design with a subtle, calming scent that instantly puts you at ease. The room was spotless—every corner meticulously cleaned—and the bedding felt luxurious against the skin. The mattress struck the perfect balance: firm enough for support but soft enough for comfort. Combined with blackout curtains that blocked out all light, I had one of the best nights' sleep in recent memory. The bathroom features smart dry/wet separation, and the hot water pressure was strong and consistent throughout. High-quality toiletries added to the overall premium feel. Staff were incredibly friendly and efficient during check-in, and they even offered thoughtful recommendations for nearby attractions. This place offers incredible value and charm—definitely a top pick if you're visiting Xiamen for a relaxing getaway.
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