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185 Yinjiang Road, Jimei District, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China
Voted one of the most beautiful campuses in China
Nestled on the shores of Xiamen Bay, Jimei University stands as a living testament to the vision of Tan Kah Kee, the renowned patriotic overseas Chinese leader. Founded in 1918 and formally established in 1994 through the merger of five institutions, this prestigious university is not just an academic hub but also a cultural landmark celebrated for its unique architectural style and profound historical heritage. With its motto "Sincerity and Perseverance" (Cheng Yi) guiding generations of scholars, Jimei University offers visitors a captivating blend of academic vitality, architectural beauty, and Southern Fujian charm.
The campus is an integral part of the Jimei School Village, a UNESCO-worthy complex initiated by Tan Kah Kee in 1913. Recognized as one of China's "20th-Century Architectural Heritage Sites" in 2016, the area boasts the iconic Jiannanhua Architecture—a distinctive fusion of Eastern and Western styles often described as "wearing a Western suit with a Chinese bamboo hat." This style is characterized by red brick walls, granite foundations, arched verandas, and traditional Southern Fujian "chuanqi" (ship-shaped) roof ridges, creating a visual feast for architecture enthusiasts.
Must-see architectural gems include the Yungong Building Complex, where five buildings named after Confucian virtues (Benevolence, Righteousness, Propriety, Wisdom, Trustworthiness) form a harmonious ensemble with Roman columns and red-tiled roofs. The Cheng Yi Building, named after the university motto, serves as a provincial cultural relic, witnessing the school's evolution over decades. Nearby, the Science Museum, with its geometric brick patterns and vintage windows, houses a collection of historical artifacts that trace the development of education in southern Fujian.
Start your journey at the Bronze Statue of Tan Kah Kee at the main campus entrance. The statue depicts the visionary leader gazing thoughtfully into the distance, embodying the spirit of dedication to education that defines Jimei. A short walk away lies the Cornerstone Square, a site of historical significance as the birthplace of the first Communist Youth League branch in southwestern Fujian, where red bricks and memorial plaques tell stories of revolutionary passion.
No visit is complete without exploring the Dragon Boat Pool adjacent to the campus. Built by Tan Kah Kee in 1950, this 240,000-square-meter water complex is surrounded by glazed-tiled pavilions and verandas. The pool comes alive during the annual Dragon Boat Festival, but even on quiet days, the reflection of nearby buildings in its calm waters creates a serene atmosphere. Overlooking the pool is the Nanxun Building, Jimei's most iconic structure, which once earned praise from U.S. President Nixon as "the most beautiful high school building in the world."
For a taste of academic heritage, visit the Former Site of Jimei Library, now home to the School of Art and Design. Its "I-shaped" layout and hollowed-out brick decorations showcase the elegance of early 20th-century educational architecture. Don't miss the Antarctic Stone near the Science Museum—a gift from China's polar research expeditions, symbolizing the university's spirit of exploration.”
Venture to Shigu Road, a vibrant food street 50 meters from the campus gate, to savor authentic Minnan (Southern Fujian) cuisine. Indulge in sha cha mian (noodle soup with rich peanut sauce), tusun dong (sea worm jelly—a local delicacy), and crispy salted chicken. For dessert, try the glutinous rice ice cream, a delightful blend of chewy and creamy textures. The street buzzes with energy, especially in the evening, when students and tourists alike gather to enjoy affordable and flavorful meals.
1. Admire Jiannanhua Architecture Up Close: Wander through the Yungong Building Complex and Cheng Yi Building to appreciate the unique "East-Meets-West" architectural style. Observe the intricate details like red brick walls, granite bases, and ship-shaped roof ridges—each element tells a story of Tan Kah Kee's innovative vision for education. Don’t forget to capture the contrast between Roman columns and traditional Minnan glazed tiles, a hallmark of Jiannanhua design.
2. Stroll Around the Dragon Boat Pool: Spend a peaceful afternoon walking along the banks of the Dragon Boat Pool. Built in 1950, this scenic spot is surrounded by pavilions with curved eaves. If you visit in June during the Dragon Boat Festival, you can watch exciting dragon boat races; on other days, enjoy the tranquil reflection of Nanxun Building in the water, a perfect photo opportunity.
3. Learn About Tan Kah Kee’s Legacy: Start at the Bronze Statue of Tan Kah Kee at the main gate, then head to the nearby exhibition areas (such as the Science Museum’s historical section) to explore his contributions to education in southern Fujian. His dedication to "sincerity and perseverance" is woven into the campus’s fabric, offering a meaningful cultural lesson.
4. Explore Art & Culture at the Former Library: The Former Site of Jimei Library, now part of the School of Art and Design, showcases both architectural beauty and creative energy. Check out student art exhibitions or simply admire the building’s hollowed-out brick decorations and "I-shaped" layout, which reflect early 20th-century educational design aesthetics.
5. Savor Minnan Snacks on Shigu Road: After exploring the campus, take a 5-minute walk to Shigu Road, a lively food street. Indulge in local favorites like sha cha mian (peanut sauce noodles) and tusun dong (sea worm jelly), then treat yourself to glutinous rice ice cream for dessert. It’s a great way to experience authentic local flavors after a day of sightseeing.
University is easily accessible by public transport. From Xiamen North Railway Station, take bus 903 or 921 to the "Jimei School Village" stop, then walk 300 meters east to reach the main gate. Bus 929 terminates directly at the campus main entrance. For a scenic route, take the BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) Line 1 to Jimei Station, then transfer to bus 901 or take a 10-minute taxi ride. As for campus entry, since it is an open university, visitors can enter through the main gate (located on Yinjiang Road) freely during daytime (6:00-22:00). However, it is advisable to bring a valid ID (such as a passport or ID card) in case of occasional security checks. Please note that some teaching buildings and dormitory areas are not open to tourists, so pay attention to the "No Entry" signs.
Remember this is an active campus—keep noise to a minimum, respect students' study time, and avoid entering classrooms during lectures. Photography is permitted outdoors but ask for permission before taking photos of individuals.
Jimei University is more than a place of learning; it's a destination where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. Whether you're an architecture buff, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from the city, this coastal campus promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Minnan's educational legacy.
From $ 512
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