Xiamen Island, Island in Fujian Province, China.
Xiamen Island is a large landmass off the coast of Fujian Province extending across 155 square kilometers between mainland China and Taiwan Strait. The terrain features mountains and natural harbors, and it is divided into two administrative districts, Huli and Siming.
The island became important during the Song Dynasty as a maritime trading center, leading to the construction of a fortified castle in 1387. This defensive structure marked a turning point in the region's strategic control over following centuries.
The island maintains strong ties with overseas Chinese communities, particularly those in Southeast Asia, who support local educational projects and cultural institutions that reflect their heritage.
The island is accessible for visitors and can be explored relatively easily, though the mountainous areas make some zones less straightforward to reach. Visitors should plan sufficient time to see different elevations and coastal sections across the two districts.
The surrounding waters support nearly 2,000 marine species, creating one of the region's richest ecosystems. An interesting detail is that most of the island's fresh water comes from the Jiulong River flowing from the mainland.
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