“Pursue Excellence, Strive for Perfection”,
the driving force of Xiamen University’s over 90 years of academic prominence. Well- known for its elegant and striking
landscapes, no doubt it was dubbed as the most beautiful and interesting
university in China. Comfortably lies in the foot of WulaoFeng Mountain and the
sea, this perfect combination provides an amenable place for students to relax
and study.
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| Lotus Lake and Kah Kee Complex at the background, Xiamen University. |
Chinese and European architectural designs
highlight the campus buildings as well as other structures. The university was
founded in 1921 by an overseas Chinese named Tan Kah Kee who donated millions
of dollars to endow Xiamen University. Originally named as “University of Amoy”,
was handed to the government by 1937 due to lack of finance. Chinese Ministry
of Education maintained the schools advocacy to achieve academic excellence and
has now become one of the best and selective universities in China.
 |
| Inside the campus, Xiamen University |
There
are lot to visit in these prestigious school and a 3-4 hrs strolling is enough
to get a feel of what the university has to offer. A lot of tourists are
visiting during the mornings and late afternoon. You don’t need to show identification,
the guards doesn't mind who is entering the campus (just keep your passport
with you all the time). There are 2 major sites which are the Jiannan Hall (建南大礼堂) and
Shangxian Square (上弦场) –most popular attractions.
 |
| Zhong Linmei Square (钟林美广场) |
Let’s start our small journey by setting your
position at the west gate of the campus facing east (Yanwu Road). Do not be
confused, there are two major gates, the South and the West gates. The West
gate (my point of preference) is located near the Qunxian Complex. The South gate is the main entrance which
should not be confused to its direction; the name was originally coined from
its adjacent “South Putou” or “Nanputou” temple.
Upon
entering the West gate, you’ll be greeted by a book-like bird sculpture within Zhong Linmei Square (钟林美广场). The square is a donation by a Chinese
overseas in honor of their mother, Mrs. Zhong Linmei.
 |
| Statue of Tan Kah Kee and Luz Xun Memorial Hall at the background. |
Adjacent
to the left walking east, lays the statue of the founder Tan Kah Kee, and at
the back is the Luz Xun Memorial Hall. The memorial is part of the Jimei
Building and was named after a Chinese critic, essayist, and short story writer
who once lived there from 1926 to 1927 named Lu Xun.
 |
| Jiannan Auditorium Complex and Shangxian Square, Xiamen University |
At
the southern part of the campus lays Shangxian
Square (上弦场)
which used to be a navy drilling ground during the Sino Japanese war
of 1894-1895.
The sports ground faces the south coast of Xiamen City where the popular XiamenBoardwalk was located. At the top of it is the
Jiannan Auditorium of Xiamen University
(建南楼群) which
was founded by Tan Kah Kee’s son-in-law, Mr Li Guangqian in the 1950’s.
 |
| Xiamen University's Art Center |
Walking to the
east at the right side facing north, you will notice a massive building which
is the University’s art center which is also adjacent to the Lotus Lake. Walking
around the path-walk are benches facing west where the Kah Kee building
complex (嘉庚楼群) is
situated. The structure was designed by student and teachers from the Architecture
and Civil Department. The complex was revered as the landmark of the University
due to its elegance in design and its symmetry.
 |
| A tiny bridge connecting a small island within the Lotus Lake. |
Strolling around
the lake’s walkway will end up on a tiny arched bridge which connects a small
haven within the lake. The tiny islet houses a life-size bronze statue facing
the University’s Art Center at the south.
Moving on to the
north side of the campus are small restaurants and stores. You can easily find the South Gate by finding
first the University’s Library which is a bit nearer.
Adjacent to the
South Gate is the Nanputou Temple which should be a part of your itinerary. I
hope you enjoy reading this and have a safe trip!
 |
| South Gate (main gate) , Xiamen University |
Take the Bus No. 1, 21, 48, 96, 59 and get off at the West gate
of Xiamen University or in Chinese is Xia Da Xin Cun Station (厦大西村站). Bus fare cost CNY 1-2 (for longer trip). Prepare exact
amount as drivers are not allowed to give change. Entrance to the university is free. Enjoy the photos below! :)
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