A panoramic view of Xiamen in East China's Fujian province [Photo/IC]

Statistics from the Xiamen culture and tourism bureau show that the eastern Chinese coastal city received over 2.55 million tourists during the National Day holiday, registering revenue of 3.2 billion yuan ($447.7 million). 

This year's revenue marks an increase of 16 percent over last year, and has pushed Xiamen to become the third most popular tourist destination from Oct 1 to 7. The strong numbers are in part due to the city's efforts to enrich its cultural and tourism activities as well as illuminate the city with more night scenery. 

The bureau said that the per capita consumption of tourists was 1,261 yuan, growing 2.05 percent year-on-year. Tourists who spent more than one day in Xiamen consumed an average of 2,873 yuan, a year-on-year increase of 3.14 percent. They also preferred B&B (bed & breakfast) for accommodation. 

Self-guided tours were the top choice over the holiday, while package tour also saw growth in popularity. Shimao MO Sky Mansion, the twin 300-meter-high skyscrapers which offer visitors a panoramic view of the city, and Jinmen, a county in Taiwan located in the Straits, were all popular among travelers. 

Xiamen locals also enjoyed domestic and overseas trips during the holiday. Beijing, Shanghai and Japan were the top choices.