Gulangyu Island
Fujian Sheng
Gulangyu Island, also known as Kulangsu, is a small island off the coast of Xiamen in Fujian Province, southeastern China. Covering approximately 1.88 square kilometers, it is renowned for its rich colonial architecture, reflecting the influence of thirteen foreign countries that once held extraterritorial privileges here. The island's history as an international settlement has left a legacy of Victorian-era buildings, consulates, churches, and schools. It is famously pedestrian-only, with cars and bicycles banned, allowing only electric buggies and service vehicles. Gulangyu is often called the "Piano Island" or "The Island of Music" due to its numerous pianos and music schools, including the presence of China's only piano museum. Visitors can enjoy scenic beaches, winding lanes, subtropical gardens, and cultural museums such as the Koxinga Museum and the Xiamen Museum housed in the historic Eight Diagrams Tower. The island's highest point, Sunlight Rock, offers panoramic views of the island and surrounding sea. Gulangyu attracts millions of visitors annually and is celebrated for its harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and musical traditions, making it a top scenic and cultural destination in China.
ヒント: The best time to visit Gulangyu Island is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and pleasant. Visitors are advised to purchase ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long waits. As the island is car-free, comfortable walking shoes are recommended to explore its narrow lanes. Electric tourist buggies are available for those needing assistance. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups at major attractions. It is advisable to check opening hours of museums and gardens ahead of time to plan your visit efficiently.
興味深い事実
- •Gulangyu Island is home to over 200 pianos, earning it the nicknames 'Piano Island' and 'The Island of Music'.
- •The island is a pedestrian-only zone where cars and bicycles are banned, making it unique in China.
- •Gulangyu was the only international settlement on Chinese soil apart from Shanghai during its colonial period.
- •The Eight Diagrams Mansion (Bagua Mansion) on the island houses China's only organ museum.
- •Sunlight Rock is the highest point on the island, providing panoramic views of Gulangyu and Xiamen.
- •The island hosts the Foreigners' Football Field, one of the earliest football fields in China, dating back to 1878.
歴史
Originally developed during the late Song and early Yuan dynasties, Gulangyu Island was historically known as Yuanshazhou and Wulongyu before receiving its current name during the Ming dynasty.
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, it became an international settlement governed by multiple foreign powers, including Britain, France, and Japan, after Xiamen was opened as a treaty port.
This period saw the construction of many colonial buildings and the establishment of foreign consulates and churches.
The island was occupied by Japan during World War II until its return to China.
After the founding of the People's Republic of China, Gulangyu was administratively merged into Xiamen's Siming District in 2003.
In 2017, it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site recognizing its unique cultural and architectural legacy.
場所ガイド
Sunlight Rock (Riguang Yan)Ming dynasty period (16th-17th century)
The highest peak on Gulangyu Island, offering spectacular panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. It features historical relics such as the water training platform and stone fortress gates from the era of Koxinga's military use.
Piano Museum (Bagua Mansion)1907
Located in the historic Eight Diagrams Mansion, this museum showcases a collection of over 200 pianos, representing Gulangyu's reputation as the 'Piano Island'. It includes rare and antique pianos from various periods and countries.
Kulangsu Catholic Church (Tian Zhu Tang)1917
A Gothic-style Catholic church built around 1917, reflecting the island's colonial religious heritage and architectural diversity.
Xiamen Museum (Former Eight Diagrams Tower)1907
Housed in the historic Eight Diagrams Tower, the museum offers exhibits on the island's history, culture, and natural environment.
Shuzhuang Garden1913
A subtropical garden built in 1913 by Lin Erjia, featuring traditional Chinese landscaping, rockeries, and a seaside pavilion with views of the ocean.