Xiamen is a city on the rise. What has been a popular tourist attraction for locals is now becoming popular among the expat crowd. If you are thinking of coming to Xiamen, there will be many exciting things to do, foods to eat, and sights to see. However, if you want to enjoy some of the genuine local culture, there is no place better than Shapowei.
What was once a small fishing village has become a hub for local artists and entrepreneurs. In this article, we will take you on a brief tour of home grown attractions and local shops around the area.
The Art Zone
At the heart of Shapowei's local culture is the Shapowei Art Zone. Every weekend, local artists come here to sell their wares. One can also grab a slice of pizza and a cold beverage while admiring the local street art and checking out the skaters performing tricks at the skate park.
At night, the Art Zone is home to Xiamen's only music house: Real Live. If night life and live music are something you are interested in, there is no better place than here.
- Address: Shapowei Art Zone, 60 Daxue Road (厦门沙坡尾艺术西区60号之13设备房).
Thank You Cafe
Shapowei Thank You Cafe BarDown the road from the art zone, hidden away from the crowds, is Thank You Cafe. Thank You Cafe is a combination coffee house and specialty drink bar with a jazz club feel.
Coming to this cafe, one can enjoy the best handmade drink in Xiamen. No mojitos from a shaker here. On the second floor, light dishes are made fresh and served daily, and at night you will hear eclectic music ranging from Jazz to hip hop coming from the turntables. In keeping with the feel of the cafe, there is no sign or obvious entrance outside so make sure to give the driver the address.
- Address: Shop 8-9, 162 Daxue Road, Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian (厦门市思明区大学路162号8－9店面).
- Telephone Number: 0592-2082609
Duoji Doughnuts and Bakery
DoughnutsIf you are feeling peckish and desire something light and sweet to eat, there is only one place to go: Duoji Doughnuts. Owned by a local artist, Douji offers an array of unique flavors and aesthetically pleasing treats. Stop in and see why these small sweet treats are a favorite among locals.
- Address: 113 Daxue Road, Siming District, Xiamen (厦门市思明区大学路113号).
- Phone: 0592-2191163
Between Clothing/Between Events
As one walks around the City of Xiamen, people are bound to see someone wearing a shirt with "Amoy City" printed across the front. The design was originated by the local brand Between. Stepping into the Between shop gives one a true feeling for Xiamen style. At this shop, one can find anything from a new T-shirt to an old Aretha Franklin record.
With turntables in the rear of the store, you are also likely to hear some great music being played by a local DJ. If Old School hip hop or electric music are your thing, the owners of Between also hold events at the house live twice a month. Attending one of these events is perhaps the best way to truly experience authentic Xiamen.
- Address: 14 Daxue Road (大学路14号).
- Phone: 0592-2083892
Fat Fat Beer Horse
BeerIf drinking high quality beer and relaxing is more your speed, there is no place better than Fat Fat Beer Horse. Located in the Art Zone, this two story brewery and bar was started by two Germans who moved to China over four years ago.
The beer they make is a unique blend of German craftsmanship and Chinese flavors. The author recommends the Black Moon stout.
- Address: 60 Shapowei Road, inside the Shapowei Art Zone (厦门沙坡尾艺术西区60号之13设备房).
Touring Xiamen - See Shapowei Yourself
Gulangyu Island is Xiamen's top attraction.Shapowei is like no other area in Xiamen. There is a unique culture here that is easy to see and feel. If you are interested in how the locals relax and have a good time, you will definitely not be disappointed. Let us facilitate touring Shapowei with as you plan it with private guides and drivers.
If you are planning a tour to Gulangyu Island or Xiamen city, please see our popular tours below for inspiration:
- 3-Day Xiamen, Gulangyu, and Tulou Relaxed Tour - Relaxed Weekend Tour
- 5-Day Xiamen, Tulou and Wuyi Mountain Tour