A paradise not too far on Gulangyu

Before the arrival of the Rabbit year Spring Festival, I went to the coastal Gulangyu Island which is known as a paradise-like tourist attraction in east China. During the short stay here, city dwellers like me were deeply fascinated by local people's placid life style, the enchanting natural scenery as well as old legends.

Covering a total area of less than two square kilometers, Gulangyu Island is located off the coast of Xiamen city in Fujian province. But the unique ambience on this small island has been drawing waves of tourists. "Once you come, you would like to come back again." says a welcome board at one family hostel.

Photo by courtesy of sina.com

The stay in Gulangyu has reminded me of my good days in Lijiang, since both places's happiness is within easy reach with quiet streets, ancient architecture, simple little flowers, and lovely cats bathing in the sun.

But Gulangyu sure boasts more. As a place of residence for Westerners during Xiamen's colonial past, Gulangyu is famous for its architecture and for being home to China's largest piano museum.

February and March are the right season to visit Gulangyu, since the weather is not too cold and not too hot. Anything is pleasant, taking a jolly tour around the island by bicycle, recalling history at scenic sites, or venturing into a dessert store for some fresh cookies and coffee. As if walking into somebody's dream, everything seems so unreal, and so soft and warm.

From the baroque building to the Gothic cathedral, from the Shanghai-style alley to the Fujian-style courtyard, Gulangyu is filled with different architectural styles. Therefore, family hostels on the Island are a not-to-miss attraction. Even if you don't live in any of them, owners are kind enough to allow you to walk around and take pictures inside.

At sunset, I like to take a stroll along the coast, with the refreshing sea breeze touching my face. Where does the winding path take me? Maybe only the roar of waves and impressive melodies from a piano could tell.

Photo by courtesy of sina.com