Xiamen
Xiamen Botanical Garden (Wanshi), Xiamen
Xiamen Botanical Garden, known to locals as Wanshi Botanical Garden after the hill it covers, sits just east of the old town and is one of the city's most popular days out. Opened in 1960, it spreads across Wanshi Mountain and is part of the larger Gulangyu–Wanshi national scenic area. More than 6,300 plant species grow here among granite boulders, temples and small lakes, so it works equally well for a serious botanical visit and a relaxed walk in the shade.
What to see
The garden is divided into themed sections. The one everyone photographs is the Rainforest World, where fine mist is sprayed over a pond and wooden walkways to mimic a tropical cloud forest; come on a still morning and the whole valley fills with fog.
Misty walkway in the Rainforest World section of Xiamen Botanical Garden
The Cactus and Succulent area is the other highlight, a sun-baked slope of towering cacti and desert plants that feels nothing like the rest of subtropical Xiamen. Higher up, the Banshan viewing platform looks out over Wanshilian Temple and the city skyline beyond.
Cactus and succulent collection on the dry slope of the garden
Tickets and hours
General admission is 30 RMB. Opening hours are seasonal: roughly 5:30am to 6:30pm from May to early October, and 6:30am to 6:00pm the rest of the year. The garden is large and hilly, so allow at least half a day, or take the internal sightseeing shuttle (small extra fee) between the main areas.
Getting there
Several city buses stop at the South Gate (Wanshi Botanical Garden stop), a short ride from the Zhongshan Road area. From there it is uphill, so wear comfortable shoes. Pay the entrance fee and shuttle by Alipay or WeChat Pay.
When to go
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable. Arrive early for the best mist in the Rainforest World and to beat both the heat and the tour groups.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How much is the entrance fee? General admission is 30 RMB; the internal shuttle costs a little extra.
How long should I spend? Half a day is sensible given the hills and the size of the grounds.
What is the best part? The misty Rainforest World walkways and the cactus slope are the two photo highlights.
Highlights
- Over 6,300 plant species across the hilly Wanshi Mountain site
- Rainforest World: misted walkways that fill with fog on still mornings
- Cactus and succulent slope, a desert pocket in subtropical Xiamen
- Banshan platform views over Wanshilian Temple and the skyline
- Granite boulders and small temples scattered through the grounds
Travel Tips
Arrive early for the mist
The Rainforest World fog is thickest soon after opening on a calm morning, before crowds and wind.
Use the internal shuttle
The garden is large and uphill; the small-fee sightseeing cart saves your legs between the main sections.
Wear proper shoes
Paths climb the hillside and can be slippery near the misted ponds.
