Dragon Boat Pond (Jimei) - Image 1
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Dragon Boat Pond Jimei

4.6
·8 reviews·Xiamen, China

A reclaimed beach transformed into a scenic pond with seven pavilions, famous for dragon boat races and stunning reflections.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Dragon Boat Pond (Jimei) - Image 1

Dragon Boat Pond Jimei

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A reclaimed beach transformed into a scenic pond with seven pavilions, famous for dragon boat races and stunning reflections.

4.6
(8 reviews)

"Beautiful reflections and a peaceful walk make this a serene escape, especially during festival times."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Perimeter

The pond is expansive! Allocate ample time for a leisurely walk around its entirety to fully appreciate the scenery. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking reflections and soft, beautiful lighting. Perfect for photographers! :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dragon Boat Races

Dragon Boat Races

Outer Pool

Witness the exhilarating spectacle of dragon boat races, especially during the Dragon Boat Festival. A true cultural immersion!

Seven Pavilions

Seven Pavilions

Poolside

Admire the 'Seven Stars Surrounding the Moon' design with its seven unique pavilions, offering picturesque spots for relaxation and photos.

Reflective Waters

Reflective Waters

Dragon Boat Pond

Capture stunning reflections of the pavilions and surrounding scenery on the calm waters, especially during sunrise or sunset.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

While Dragon Boat Pond is beautiful year-round, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid peak summer heat and crowds. Early mornings offer the best light for photography and a more peaceful experience before local activities begin.

Embrace the Local Vibe

Dragon Boat Pond is a beloved local spot, especially during festivals. If you're visiting around the Dragon Boat Festival, expect vibrant races and a lively atmosphere. For a quieter experience, aim for weekdays outside of major holidays.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Dragon Boat Festival
Why
Vibrant races & lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

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@cindyxchen99
124.5K likes • 871.5K views

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Perimeter

The pond is expansive! Allocate ample time for a leisurely walk around its entirety to fully appreciate the scenery. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking reflections and soft, beautiful lighting. Perfect for photographers! :camerawithflash:

ChiNoodles Lanzhou Noodles Mukbang #everydaytrey #mukbang #asmrfood #foodietok #noodles #lanzhou #china @Chinoodles
@everydaytrey
1.3K likes • 34.5K views
The origins of Xiahao Lane trace back to the Northern Song Dynasty. Legend has it that the renowned poet Su Shi named the area “Longmenhao” after being captivated by a dragon-shaped boulder in the Yangtze River. #chongqing
@mr.yong168
378 likes • 7.4K views

🏮 Festival Fun

If you can, time your visit for the Dragon Boat Festival for an unforgettable cultural experience with races and festivities. :fireworks:

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Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Perimeter

The pond is expansive! Allocate ample time for a leisurely walk around its entirety to fully appreciate the scenery. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking reflections and soft, beautiful lighting. Perfect for photographers! :camerawithflash:

🏮 Festival Fun

If you can, time your visit for the Dragon Boat Festival for an unforgettable cultural experience with races and festivities. :fireworks:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(8 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Dragon Boat Pond for its beautiful scenery, especially the picturesque pavilions and reflective waters, making it a great spot for a relaxing walk. The pond truly comes alive during the Dragon Boat Festival with exciting races and a vibrant atmosphere. Some find the area quite large, requiring a good amount of walking.

"Great for cold weather outdoor activities"

Nigel Psalm Yap

"Located in Jimei District, the Xiamen Dragon Boat Pool was created by Tan Kah Kee in 1950 by reclaiming the beach. It consists of three main sections: the Outer Pool, the Middle Pool, and the Inner Pool. The Outer Pool is commonly known as the Dragon Boat Pool. Seven unique pavilions, namely "Qiming," "Nanhui," "Geng," "Zuo," "You," "Feng," and "Yuan," are built along the poolside, creating a beautiful scene of "Seven Stars Surrounding the Moon." The Dragon Boat Pool is renowned for its spectacular dragon boat races, especially during the Dragon Boat Festival, when drums and gongs fill the air with a lively atmosphere."

三寶媽

"It is not until the Dragon Boat Festival that the water level is usually drained. The dragon boat pond is very big and it takes a long time to walk around it. If you want to relax, it is good to take a walk here."

jason. TSao

What People Like

Beautiful reflections
Picturesque pavilions
Peaceful walking paths

What People Dislike

Can be very large

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Dragon Boat Pond is located in Jimei District, Xiamen. You can reach it via local buses or taxis. Many visitors find it convenient to use ride-sharing apps for direct access. Reddit

Yes, several bus routes serve the Jimei District, with stops near Dragon Boat Pond. Checking local transit apps upon arrival is recommended for the most up-to-date route information. Reddit

From Xiamen city center, you can take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or public bus. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Reddit

While specific parking details can vary, it's generally advisable to check for designated parking areas upon arrival or consider public transport to avoid any parking hassles. Reddit

The pathways around Dragon Boat Pond are suitable for walking and enjoying the scenery. Cycling might be restricted in certain areas, so it's best to observe local signage. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Dragon Boat Pond is generally a public space and does not require an admission fee for general access. Enjoy the scenery freely! Reddit

As a public park, Dragon Boat Pond is typically accessible throughout the day. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific event hours or temporary closures. Reddit

Visiting on weekday mornings, especially outside of major holidays and the Dragon Boat Festival, will offer a more serene experience. Reddit

The most famous event is the Dragon Boat Festival, which features spectacular races. Other local events may also take place throughout the year. Reddit

Generally, picnicking is allowed in public parks. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of waste and dispose of it properly. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The pavilions offer great framing opportunities, and the water's surface provides stunning reflections, especially during the golden hours. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) provide the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors. Reddit

Drone usage is often restricted in public parks and near water bodies. It's crucial to check local regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both landscapes and details. A polarizing filter can enhance reflections on the water. Reddit

Yes, the dragon boat races are a fantastic photographic opportunity! Be prepared for fast action and consider a telephoto lens if you want to capture close-ups. Reddit

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

Walking the entire perimeter can take a significant amount of time, likely over an hour, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the views. Reddit

Yes, the area is dotted with benches and the seven pavilions provide ample seating for relaxation and enjoying the scenery. Reddit

Absolutely! It's an ideal location for a peaceful walk, offering beautiful views and a refreshing atmosphere. Reddit

Besides walking and enjoying the scenery, you can observe local life, take photos, and if visiting during the festival, witness the exciting dragon boat races. Reddit

There are some trees providing shade, but it's advisable to wear sun protection, especially during warmer months, as large sections are open. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Dragon Boat Pond offers a pleasant outdoor environment for families. The spacious grounds are perfect for children to run around and explore, and the visual spectacle of the pavilions can spark their imagination. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the open space and the chance to see local life can be engaging. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as facilities might be limited. Visiting during a weekday morning can provide a more relaxed experience for younger children. Reddit

📸 Photographers

For photographers, Dragon Boat Pond is a gem, especially during the golden hours. The 'Seven Stars Surrounding the Moon' pavilion arrangement offers unique compositions, and the still waters are perfect for capturing stunning reflections. If you're lucky enough to visit during the Dragon Boat Festival, the dynamic action of the races provides incredible opportunities for capturing movement and excitement. A versatile lens and a polarizing filter are highly recommended. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Leisurely Strollers

If you enjoy a peaceful walk with scenic views, Dragon Boat Pond is ideal. The extensive perimeter allows for a long, unhurried stroll, with plenty of benches and pavilions to pause and soak in the atmosphere. It's a great place to escape the city bustle and enjoy a moment of tranquility. The reflections on the water and the traditional architecture make for a visually pleasing experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Creation of Dragon Boat Pond

Dragon Boat Pond, officially known as the Outer Pool of Xiamen Dragon Boat Pool, has a significant history rooted in reclamation and cultural preservation. It was established in 1950 by the visionary Tan Kah Kee, a prominent overseas Chinese leader and philanthropist, through a process of reclaiming the beach. This initiative transformed the coastline into a valuable public space.

The pond's design is notable for its aesthetic appeal, featuring seven distinct pavilions: 'Qiming,' 'Nanhui,' 'Geng,' 'Zuo,' 'You,' 'Feng,' and 'Yuan.' These pavilions are strategically placed along the poolside, creating a picturesque arrangement often described as 'Seven Stars Surrounding the Moon.' This thoughtful layout enhances the visual experience for visitors and provides serene spots for contemplation.

Beyond its scenic beauty, Dragon Boat Pond is intrinsically linked to the vibrant tradition of dragon boat racing. It is particularly renowned for hosting spectacular races, most notably during the annual Dragon Boat Festival. During this time, the air is filled with the energetic sounds of drums and gongs, and the water comes alive with the competitive spirit of the teams, making it a focal point for cultural celebration and community engagement. Reddit

Experiencing the Dragon Boat Festival

The Dragon Boat Festival is the highlight of the year at Dragon Boat Pond, transforming the tranquil waters into a scene of intense competition and festivity. This traditional Chinese festival, celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, is marked by thrilling dragon boat races that draw participants and spectators from all over. The rhythmic beating of drums and the cheers of the crowd create an electrifying atmosphere that is truly unforgettable.

Participating teams often represent different communities or organizations, adding a strong sense of local pride and camaraderie to the event. The races themselves are a display of teamwork, strength, and synchronization as paddlers work in unison to propel their elaborately decorated dragon boats forward. It's a powerful visual and auditory spectacle that embodies the spirit of the festival.

Beyond the races, the festival period at Dragon Boat Pond offers a deeper dive into Chinese culture. Visitors can experience the lively ambiance, sample traditional festival foods like zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), and witness a tradition that has been passed down through generations. It's an opportunity to connect with local customs and enjoy a unique cultural immersion. TikTokReddit

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