By Xander Ledesma
Cebu Governor Gwen Garcia and her delegation recently visited Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, during a cultural trip to Xiamen in Fujian Province, China. Known as the “Garden by the Sea,” the 1.88-square-kilometer island is celebrated for its harmonious blend of Chinese and Western influences, making it a unique cultural gem in Xiamen Bay.
Gulangyu is renowned for its diverse architecture, with over 1,000 buildings reflecting an array of styles. The island’s rich musical heritage is preserved through its world-renowned Piano Museum, the first of its kind in China, and its extensive organ museum, the largest globally. These musical landmarks have earned Gulangyu the nicknames “Piano Island” and “Island of Music.” Since July 8, 2017, Gulangyu has held UNESCO status as a “Historic International Settlement,” recognized for its unique cultural and architectural legacy.