Union Church on Gulangyu Island

Union Church on Gulangyu Island

Union Church is the oldest church on Gulangyu Island. In the mid-19th century, many Westerners came to Gulangyu, most of whom were devout Christians. To have a place for worship, they decided to build a church on the island. Believers from various missionary societies donated funds to construct the church atop Lujiao (Deer Cliff) on Gulangyu. In 1863, this neoclassical-style church was completed and was then known as the “International Church.” In 1911, the church underwent reconstruction and was renamed “Union Church.” After 1949, Union Church came under the management of the Chinese church. By the end of March 1951, it was taken over by the councils of San Yi Tang (Trinity Church) and Fu En Tang (Gospel Church). After 1952, the church was handed over to Xiamen No. 2 Hospital for use. In 1974, due to the expansion needs of the hospital, the church nearly faced demolition to make way for the construction of a pharmacy. However, thanks to the vigorous efforts of Mr. Bai Jiaxin, a nationally renowned architect, the church was preserved through an approach that appeared destructive but ultimately saved the structure — additional buildings were constructed around the church. Though obscured by surrounding structures, the church survived. Today, Union Church has been fully restored and is presented to visitors in its original restored appearance.

Address: Lujiao Road, Siming District, Xiamen City (near the Catholic Church)

Type: Church

Recommended visiting time: 1–2 hours

Opening hours:

Visiting hours and visitor numbers are limited depending on daily conditions

Ticket information:

Free admission.

Gulangyu Subdistrict: Gulangyu Subdistrict, Siming District, Xiamen City, Fujian Province

This subdistrict covers an area of 1.91 square kilometers with a registered population of 15,373. It governs two communities: Longtou and Neicuo. Gulangyu Subdistrict is a subdistrict office under Siming District, Xiamen City, Fujian Province. Its jurisdiction is the island area of Gulangyu, spanning 1.91 square kilometers with a registered population of 15,373. The subdistrict administers two communities: Longtou Community (eastern part) and Neicuo Community (western part). Before 2003, the area now known as Gulangyu Subdistrict was part of Gulangyu District, which did not include any subdistricts or towns. 2… More details about Gulangyu Subdistrict ++

Further reading:

· Eighth Batch of Cultural Relics Protection Units in Fujian Province