Xinyan Village

Introducing Xinyan Village

Xinyan Village, nestled at the foot of Wenpu Mountain, is home to a large number of ancient dwellings in Haicang. These are among the most elegant in Xiamen and even Fujian Province, embodying the quintessential Minnan culture. Haicang District boasts numerous red-brick dwellings of exquisite taste, exquisite architectural craftsmanship, and rich cultural history. These dwellings are located on Haicang Street, such as the Liantang Villa, the Yan Family Mansion in Yuanqian, and the Di'e Tower in Lutang.

Two hundred years later, when you are in the Xinyan ancient residential complex, you can see various decorative patterns everywhere, some of which depict historical stories, some depict birds and animals, and some depict mythical creatures. These stories are told in the form of gray paintings or collages made of shells and small porcelain pieces.

According to the old people living in the village, Xinyan Village in the late Qing Dynasty faced the sea, and seawater could flow into the village’s rivers with the tide. These rivers flowed in front of and behind the villagers’ houses, and small boats could travel freely from the ocean to the village.

Climate and best time to travel

With a subtropical marine monsoon climate, red brick walls, red tiles as roof, granite as base, supplemented by special crafts such as openwork, lattice carving, round carving, and relief decoration of wood and stone, this is a typical Fujian red brick ancient residential village, Xinyan Village, which is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Haicang's streets are home to the Liantang Villa, the Yan Family Mansion in Yuanqian, and the Di'e Tower in Lutang. Xinyan and Xiayang in Haicang are home to clusters of ancient dwellings. These not only embody the essence of architectural art but also contain a wealth of cultural history. Records indicate that Xinyan and Xiayang boast hundreds of ancient dwellings in various styles, including swallowtail ridges and saddle-shaped ones.

It is recommended to play for about 1 hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Xinyan Village

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Xinyan Village is a historically rich rural village known for its well-preserved traditional Fujian architecture and lifestyle. The village's significance lies in its ability to maintain the heritage and customs of rural life in Fujian, offering a glimpse into the past while still maintaining its authentic charm.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Xinyan Village is located in the outskirts of Xiamen. It can be reached by taxi or local buses from Xiamen city center. The nearest bus stop is around a 15-minute walk from the village. Taxis are the most convenient option for direct access.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The village itself is open to visitors at all times, but the best time to visit is during daylight hours, between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, for optimal visibility and local activity. Early mornings or weekdays tend to be less crowded.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is generally no entrance fee for visiting the village. However, fees may apply for certain tours or activities within the village, such as workshops or cultural performances. Tickets for these can be purchased on-site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is typically not required for general visits. However, for specific events or tours, it is advisable to book tickets at least 1-2 days in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes 1-2 hours to explore the village thoroughly, depending on whether you participate in cultural activities or take time to interact with locals.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The traditional Fujian-style houses with their distinctive architecture.
• The village's central square and the surrounding markets where you can observe local life.
• The scenic countryside views that provide excellent photo opportunities.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. For non-Mandarin speakers, it's best to check for availability of English-speaking guides in advance. Audio guides are not typically provided, but some guides may offer their own commentary in English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are around the village square, with traditional houses as the backdrop. The surrounding rural landscapes, particularly during sunset or sunrise, offer excellent panoramic views for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the village square and market area, then wander through the narrow streets to admire the traditional architecture. If you have time, take a short walk into the countryside for scenic views.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not typically available in the village, but the evening offers a peaceful ambiance to explore the village. Special cultural tours may be available depending on the season or local events.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The village tends to be less crowded during weekdays and in the early morning or late afternoon. Weekends and public holidays can see an influx of visitors.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as public toilets are available. There are small local eateries and shops where you can purchase snacks and water. Rest areas are limited, but there are spots to sit and enjoy the rural surroundings.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

While the village is generally accessible, there may be uneven paths or steps that could be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children will find the open spaces and local activities enjoyable.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted, but some shops and eateries may also accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay. Credit card acceptance is less common, especially in smaller establishments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are local restaurants offering traditional Fujian dishes such as seafood, rice noodles, and dumplings.
• Small cafes serve tea and light snacks in the village area.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some local eateries. Halal food may not be as commonly found in the village but can be found in Xiamen city, which is a short drive away.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are a few small guesthouses and homestays within the village offering traditional accommodations.
• For more luxurious options, hotels in Xiamen city are within easy reach and offer a wide range of choices.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Xiamen's Gulangyu Island is a popular nearby attraction known for its colonial architecture and scenic views.
• The Hakka villages of Fujian, famous for their traditional tulou buildings, can also be visited as part of a day trip from Xinyan Village.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are a few souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, including handmade pottery, traditional textiles, and art pieces. Local snacks and tea are also popular items to bring home.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi or local buses can take you to Xiamen city, where you can explore other attractions or head to the airport or train station.
• Public transportation options like buses or private car services are also available for further exploration of the region.