Scott No: 3274
Serial number: 2003-8
Values in set: 3
Denomination: 3.60 yuan
Date of issue: 2nd May. 2003
Designer: Yang Wenqing
Size of stamps: 50*30 mm
Size of M/S: 180*80 mm
Perforation: 12
Sheet composition:
24 for sheet I (se-tenant);
9 for Sheet II (se-tenant)
Printing process: photogravur
Printer: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing House

This is a set of three special stamps titled Gulangyu, issued on May 2, 2003, with a total face value of 3.60 yuan, designed by Yang Wenqing and printed by Beijing Stamp Printing Works using the photogravure process. A souvenir sheet was also issued.

Gulangyu is located off the southwestern coast of Xiamen Island. It is a sea-bound island, named for the sound of waves striking the coastal reefs, which resembles the beating of a drum. The island features a harmonious blend of mountains and sea, lush vegetation, and a large collection of modern buildings in various national styles. It is known as the "Exhibition of Ten Thousand Nationalities' Architecture" and the "Garden on the Sea." The island also has an exceptionally high number of pianos, earning it the nickname "Island of Pianos." This stamp set uses a continuous format, featuring three of the island's most representative cultural landmarks, integrating island architecture, natural scenery, and historical culture. It presents the unique island character of Gulangyu and documents its blend of Chinese and Western architectural culture and historical heritage.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

Bagua Tower

Bagua Tower stands on the northern slope of Bijia Mountain on Gulangyu. It is a landmark modern building on the island and now serves as the Xiamen Museum. The building has an octagonal main body and a red octagonal dome with eight ridges, which is how it got its name. The building combines Chinese and Western architectural techniques, with a grand and unique appearance. It is a classic example of modern overseas Chinese architecture in southern Fujian and bears witness to Xiamen's history of overseas exchange.

Sunlight Rock

Sunlight Rock, also known as Huangyan, is the highest peak on Gulangyu. Its rock formations are towering and upright. According to legend, Zheng Chenggong once stationed troops here, and historical relics such as a naval training platform remain on the mountain. In the early morning, sunlight illuminates the rock face and the ancient temple in the mountains, creating a particularly striking scene, which is how the rock got its name. From the top, visitors can overlook the entire island and the scenery of Xiamen Bay. It is the most famous landscape on Gulangyu, combining natural and cultural elements.

Shuzhuang Garden

Shuzhuang Garden is located at the southern foot of Sunlight Rock, built by the sea. It was constructed in 1913 by the Taiwanese patriot Lin Erjia, and the garden's name is a homophone of his courtesy name, "Shuzang." The garden is divided into two main areas: the Sea-Hiding Garden and the Mountain-Mending Garden. It cleverly borrows the sea as scenery, integrating mountains, sea, and garden into one, breaking the enclosed layout of traditional gardens. It is a model of modern Chinese coastal gardens, reflecting the unique garden design wisdom of southern Fujian.

Artistic and Design Features

The stamp set is designed as a three-stamp continuous issue. The designs use continuous green trees as a connecting thread, naturally linking the three scenic spots into a complete and coherent panoramic view of the island. The watercolor style features fresh and soft tones, delicately expressing the layers of blue sea, green trees, and red-roofed buildings, recreating the fresh and beautiful island atmosphere of Gulangyu. The photogravure printing provides transparent colors and rich layers. The three stamps flow seamlessly, presenting the unique character of Gulangyu—where mountains and sea meet and architecture from around the world is nestled among the trees—within a small canvas.