Top Things to Do in Chaozhou and Shantou in 2026 – Expert Picks for Food & Culture

Written by Jasmine Miao | Updated February 27,2026

When traveling to Guangdong, besides the typical Cantonese culture, you should also not miss the distinctive Teochew (潮州) culture in the Chaoshan region. As one of the three major Min-speaking regions, the Chaoshan region, especially Chaozhou and Shaotou, boasts one of southern China’s most fascinating destinations, though it is less known internationally than Guangzhou or Shenzhen.

It is blessed with an extensive coastline and picturesque coastal scenery. Equally impressive, it is celebrated across Asia for the meticulously sliced beef hotpot, marinated raw seafood, and the refined ritual of Gongfu tea. Cultural enthusiasts will be impressed by its diverse and dynamic folk dances, such as Yingge Dance, and intricate woodcarving and embroidery traditions.

Meanwhile, the region’s long history endowed it many well-preserved heritage sites. For many overseas Chinese – especially those in Singapore and Southeast Asia, Chaozhou and Shantou are their ancestral origins, attracting many of them to embark on a root-seeking tour here.

The good news is that planning a trip to Chaozhou and Shantou is very easy as these two cities are quite close to each other. And with our list of top things to do in Chaozhou and Shantou, you will be better prepared for a trip here.

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• Top Things to Do in Chaozhou
• Top Things to Do in Shantou
• Chaoshan Food Guide: What to Eat in Chaozhou and Shantou
• Is Chaozhou or Shantou Better for a Weekend Trip?
• Practical Travel Information for Your Chaozhou and Shantou Trip
• Plan Your Chaozhou and Shantou Tour with China Xian Tour

Top Things to Do in Chaozhou

When traveling in Chaozhou, it is highly recommended to slow down your pace and enjoy its cultural depth. There are many ancient bridges and temple remained here, especially in the old city. Wandering through this town offers a lot of chances to go into local’s everyday life.

Based on our local’s guides’ advice, some of the best experiences here include visiting thousand-year-old city to see some intricate wood and stone carvings, sip congou tea, and taste some of the most authentic Teochew snacks. And such a visit can blend all the highlights together.

Stroll Through Chaozhou Ancient City & Memorial Archway Street (Paifang Jie)

Walking is the best way to explore this relaxing city, and one of the best places for a Chaozhou city walk is the Chaozhou Ancient City. It preserves one of the most intact historical layouts in Guangdong. Here, you can embrace the beauty of city walls, temples, ancestral halls, and lively old streets.

Memorial Archway Street (Paifang Jie) is the ancient city’s heart. It is a vibrant pedestrian street lined with stone archways, snack shops, teahouses, and traditional residences. It’s perfect for anyone who hunts for food and souvenirs, and also a good place to soak yourself in Teochew atmosphere both day and night.

• Location: Central Chaozhou
• Entrance Fee: Free. Pay-as-you-go for specific attractions.
• Paid Attractions: Guangji Bridge (¥15), Guangji Tower (¥30), Xu Consort’s Mansion (¥16), Confucian Palace (¥8), Jilue Huang Gong Ancestral Hall (¥8), Beige Buddha Lantern (¥8)
• Ticket Purchase Tips: If you plan to visit several attractions, instead of purchasing each ticket separately,it can be more cost-efficient to buy the combo tickets for different attraction combinations. The combo tickets are valid for three days and can be purchased via Ctrip.com or directly at the entrance.
• Highlights:

1. Traditional Teochew architecture
2. Historic stone archways
3. Local snack streets and side alleys
4. Teahouses serving congou tea

• Recommended Time: 2–3 hours(if you want to fully explore some major sites, it may take you 4-5 hours or even longer)
• Tips

1. Explore the side alleys, not just the main street
2. Visit once in the daytime and once at night if possible
3. Combine this walking tourwith Guangji Bridge and Kaiyuan Temple

Related Reading: Shantou and Chaozhou Travel Guide (with Popular Itineraries)

Enjoy a Walking Tour on Chaozhou Ancient City Walls

The ancient city walls of Chaozhou were first built during the Ming Dynasty as part of the city’s defense system along the Han River. For centuries, these city walls have witnessed the city’s transformation and protected its inhabitants and their traditional way of life. They provided the security necessary for the trade prosperity and cultural growth in this town.

Today, the walls serve as a scenic and quiet walking route. From here, you can embrace a full view of the city’s ancient appearance and it’s especially magical at sunset.

• Location: Near Guangji Gate Tower, Chaozhou Ancient City
• Entrance: Free
• Time Needed: 30–60 minutes
• Highlights: Ming-era wall structure, river panorama, old-town skyline views
• Best Sunset Viewpoints: Near Guangji Gate Tower for the best sunset view onthe Han River

Walk Across the Iconic Guangji Bridge & Watch the Night Light Show

Guangji Bridge is the site that almost every visitor would come and see when traveling in Chaozhou. It’s one of China’s four ancient bridges. It was built in the Song Dynasty, and people love it for its unique floating boat section that connects the two riverbanks. The reason why we strongly recommend this attraction is that except for walking across the bridge to observe its special design, in the evening, the bridge will become one of Chaozhou’s most captivating light displays. The Han River then transforms into a shimmering canvas that’s ideal for photos and evening strolls.

• Location: Across the Han River. Links the old city and east bank
• Entrancefee: See tables above
• Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours
• Highlights: Floating boat section. River views.
• Light Show & Boat Removal Time

1. Floating boats are typically removed around 5:30 pm (Around 4:30 pm from November to January)
2. Night light show usually starts around 8:00 pm

Discover Serenity at Kaiyuan Temple

Kaiyuan Temple sits in the heart of Chaozhou Ancient City. It is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Guangdong (built in the Tang Dynasty). It shows the deep religious traditions of the region and has long been a spiritual center for local residents. We recommend you come here to enjoy a peaceful and calm moment after fully experiencing the lively vibe of the town. The delicate and classic Lingnan architectural details are also things you must take a look at.

• Location: Within Chaozhou Ancient City. Near Memorial Archway Street.
• Entrance: Free
• Time Needed: 30–60 minutes
• Highlights: Colorful ceramic roof decorations, tranquil courtyards, traditional lanterns
• Best Photo Spots

1. The iconic red wall with calligraphy
2. The heart-shaped Bodhi tree in the courtyard

Experience Traditional Teochew Culture – Kung Fu Tea, Chaozhou Opera, Craftsmanship

Beyond the landmarks in the old city, we’d say that Chaozhou also shines through its living traditions. The most iconic ones include tea, opera, and woodcarving. These traditions and cultural practices have become part of people’s everyday life. These authentic experiences are where you can immerse into the real charm of Teochew.

Savor Kung Fu Tea in a Traditional Teahouse

When having Teochew Kung Fu Tea, except for the tea’s lingering fragrance, we believe that you’ll find out it’s more of a ritual of patience and hospitality. Each step, each ware, such as small clay teapots, tiny cups, and carefully timed brewing, all highlight Chanzhou people’s emphasis on precision and refinement. Local teahouses inside the Ancient City will offer the most authentic experience.

• Usually brewed with Phoenix Dan Cong tea
• Sessions can last 30–60 minutes

Watch a Chaozhou Opera Performance

You may have heard of Beijing opera or Sichuan opera before, but beyond them, Chaozhou Opera (Teochew Opera) is also one of China’s oldest local opera forms. Unlike the bold and hard-hitting performance, it’s liked for its elegant singing style and expressive movements. You can see this opera in teahouses or small theaters near Paifang Street.

• Most narratives of the opera aredeeply rooted in historical legends
• Even short performances offer a glimpse into regional aesthetics

Admire Craftsmanship at Ji Lue Huang Ancestral Hall (Woodcarving)

If you are inspired by Chaozhou’s intricate traditional craftsmanship, we suggest you pay a visit to Ji Lue Huang Ancestral Hall. This ancestral hall has some really famous, detailed wood and stone carvings. More than simply decorating the site, many works are made to depict mythological scenes and classic Chinese tales.

• Highlights: century-old wood carvings under the eaves
• A guide is recommended. This can help youbetter understand the carved stories
• Time needed: about 45–60 minutes

Try Authentic Chaozhou Street Food

Besides for the beautiful cultural sites, when coming to Chaozhou, you should definitely try its street food. Cantonese flavors are famous worldwide, but compared with other Cantonese cities, Chaozhou flavors are lighter, fresher, and often highlight rice-based snacks known locally as “粿 (guo).” Memorial Archway Street and its surrounding alleys are nice places to hunt for the local tastes, and if you choose these sites, you can easily turn an afternoon stroll into a casual food tour.

Must-Try Local Snacks

• Oyster Omelette (蚝烙): Crispy on the outside, soft inside.Packed with fresh oysters.
• Guo Snacks (Various Rice Cakes): Including savory and sweet versions made from rice or sweet potato flour.
• Chaozhou Beef Noodles / Beef Hotpot: Known for clean broth and fresh-cut beef slices.

Top Things to Do in Shantou

As a coastal city and one of China’s earliest Special Economic Zones, Shantou has various charms. Here, you can wander through colonial-era architecture and dive into its maritime trade history with many people. Compared with Chaozhou, which has a stronger ancient charm, Shantou feels more open, commercial, and ocean-facing. As a result, you can enjoy perfect island views and seafood feasts in this city.

Explore Shantou Small Park (Xiao Park Historic District)

The Small Park area is the cultural heart of old Shantou, and it’s centered around a historic round pavilion. This district has typical arcaded buildings that were built in the late Qing and Republican periods. And they vividly present Shantou’s past as a treaty port and commercial hub.

• Location: Jinping District, central Shantou
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Highlights: Nanyang-style arcaded buildings. Local snack shops and dessert stores
• Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours
• Tips: For the best photos, consider visitingin the late afternoon when the light is softer. Combine it with a nearby food walk.

Explore the Historic Shantou Old Town

Shantou Old Town is a really meaningful site. Visiting here is more about seeing the city’s maritime past and commercial legacy. As one of China’s early treaty ports, Shantou’s development is also accompanied by a unique blend of Western and traditional Lingnan architectural styles. You’ll find yourself passing a lot of restored shophouses, vintage signs, and bustling local life. The old town is an ideal place to experience the city’s business spirit and cultural depth.

• Location: Around Xiaogongyuan area, Jinping District
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Highlights: Nanyang-style arcades and historic commercial buildings; Old merchant streets (port-era prosperity)
• Time Needed: 2–3 hours

Visit Nan’ao Island

If you want to enjoy ocean views with a slower pace, then Nan’ao Island should be the most suitable destination for you. It’s the perfect escape from downtown Shantou, and it’s often described as Shantou’s “back garden.” You can fill your time here with activities on beaches, in fishing villages, and with panoramic sea views. Nan’ao can fulfill one’s expectation of natural beauty with relaxed seaside charm. It’s an incredibly beautiful place with the best opportunities for photography, cycling, and watching the sunset.

• Location: Nan’ao County, accessible by bridge from Shantou
• Entrance Fee: Free (some scenic spots may charge separately)
• Highlights: 1)Qing’ao Bay, known as the “Oriental Hawaii”; 2)Coastal highway: self-driving or cycling; 3)Fresh seafood and island village
• Time Needed: Half day tofull day
• Tips: Renting a car or scooter is the typical way to explore the island.

Taste Shantou Beef Hot Pot

Shantou is known for its legendary beef hot pot. China actually has a lot of hot pot types. Don’t like the hot and spicy Sichuan-style hot pot, Shantou’s version focuses on freshness and precision, and you can have the ingredients’ original taste by eating this way. The broth is typically light and clear, which is designed to highlight the natural sweetness of freshly sliced beef.

Indeed, locals take beef quite seriously. Restaurants will serve the meat in a lot of different cuts, each carefully labeled. Hold a few slices and let them briefly swish in the simmering broth for just seconds to achieve the perfect texture.

• Style: Clear broth. Fresh-cut beef
• Signature Cuts: Tenderloin, brisket, spoon meat, hanging dragon (rare cuts)
• Best Pairing: Sataysauce (沙茶酱) with garlic and chili
• Where to Find It: Popular throughout the city. The best are hiddenin local neighborhoods.
• Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours
• Tips

1. Go early in the evening. Popular restaurants often sell out of premium cuts.
2. Follow the recommended cooking time (usually 5–10 seconds) to keep the beef tender.

Visit Local Markets for Chaoshan Food

For many people, the best way to truly understand a place’s culture is to dive into the local market. There are also a lot of highlights hidden in the traditional market in Shantou. Beyond restaurants, local markets more straightforwardly reveal the region’s deep connection to fresh seafood, hand-cut meats, rice products, and marinated delicacies. The best visiting time can be early mornings. In these few hours, seafood arrives straight from the coast in its freshest state. It’s an authentic glimpse into everyday life.

• Best Time to Visit: 7:00–10:00 AM
• Highlights: 1)Fresh seafood (fish, shrimp, shellfish); 2)Hand-sliced beef for hot pot; 3)Marinated “luwei” (braised snacks).
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Time Needed: 45–90 minutes
• Tips: Bring small cash for easier purchases.Be mindful of wet floors and busy aisles.

Get a Panoramic View from Queshi Scenic Area

Queshi Scenic Area is across the bay from downtown Shantou. It offers a refreshing mountain-and-sea escape. There’s beautiful water and dotted rock formations. Compared with the busy city center, Queshi feels breezy and relaxed. And that’s why we strongly recommend light hiking or cable car rides in this area. Don’t forget to take panoramic photography.

• Location: Haojiang District (reachable by ferry from People’s Square)
• Ferry Fare: RMB 1 one-way
• Operating Hours (Ferry): Approx. 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM, every 20 minutes
• Highlights: 1)Cable car ride; 2)Sea and city skyline views; 3)Sunset viewpoints.
• Time Needed: 2–3 hours

Chaoshan Food Guide: What to Eat in Chaozhou and Shantou

Chaozhou cuisine is defined by refined, traditional Teochew flavors that prioritize culinary balance and meticulous craftsmanship. Signature dishes include:

• braised goose (marinated in aromatic master stock and sliced to order)
• hand-beaten beef meatballs served in clear broth
• delicate desserts like taro paste (orh nee)

You’ll also find Puning tofu with fermented bean sauce and Chaoshan-style rice rolls topped with sesame and peanut sauce. Expect light and clean flavors, and the highlight is the preserved natural flavors.

Given Shantou’s stronger coastal identity, foods here lean heavily toward seafood and bold local specialties. Raw marinated seafood (often called Teochew-style sashimi) is a standout, featuring shrimp or crab cured in garlic, chili, and soy sauce. For a safe and authentic dining experience, always enjoy this delicacy at reputable, freshness-guaranteed restaurants.

And the cooking method is also quite simple here, fresh seafood from local markets often appears just steamed or lightly seasoned. Shantou is also famous for its precise beef culture, and clear broth hot pot is the most famous. Every night, the crowded beef hot pot scenes reflect the city’s energetic, food-driven atmosphere.

5 DAYS

5 Days Chaoshan Root-Seeking and Ancestral Exploration Tour

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Is Chaozhou or Shantou Better for a Weekend Trip?

Make Chaozhou the hear of your trip if you are keen on “ancient streets”, “traditional rituals”, and a “slower rhythm of life”. It is full of past-time memories brought by sites like ancient city, memorial archways and a strong tea culture. All these lively experiences can make Chaozhou feel intimate and historical.

However, if things like coastal views, colonial-era arcades, and a more dynamic food scene attract you more, Shantou is more suitable. Shantou blends maritime history with modern commerce. You can enjoy many different sides of charm, from Small Park’s historic district to Nan’ao Island’s beaches. and pair the visit with the city’s famous beef and seafood culture. Generally speaking, Shantou feel more open, energetic, and diverse.

The good news is that the two cities are only about 50 km apart, with convenient high-speed rail connections. They share many similarities including climate and culture. For most travelers, the best plan is to combine them into one 2–3 day itinerary, and we suggest you experience Chaozhou’s heritage first, then head to Shantou for sea views and a modern culinary finish.

Practical Travel Information for Your Chaozhou and Shantou Trip

How to Travel Between Chaozhou and Shantou

Chaozhou and Shantou are quite near to each other (only about 50 km apart), transferring between these two cities can be easy and quick.

• High-speed rail: 20–25 minutesone way. Each seat costs around 13 RMB.
• Bus: 1 hourfor a trip. Costs around 30 RMB. This is a quite convenient choice for groups or road-trip lovers.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Also takes around 1 hour. 140 RMBfor a ride. Loved for the door-to-door service. Ideal for families or travelers with lots of luggage.

Suggested 3-Day Chaoshan Itinerary for Foodies

DAY 1 – Chaozhou Arrival & Paifang Street Food

• Arrive at Chaoshan
• Explore Chaozhou Ancient Cit
• Paifang Street food tour: Spring Rolls.Braised Goose. Kueh Chee. Orange juice.

DAY 2 – Chaozhou Highlights & Tea Culture

• Han Wen Gong Temple
• Guangji Bridge & Guangji Gate Tower
• Kaiyuan Temple
• Zaiyang Tea House – Gongfu Tea tasting, Teochew Opera
• Chaozhou Masters Park

DAY 3 – Shantou Exploration & Local Delicacies

• Morning transfer to Shantou (~1 hour)
• Shantou Ancient Town: Little Garden Parkand local snack experience (rice cakes)
• Chaoshan Historical & Cultural Expo Center

3 DAYS

3 Days Chaozhou and Shantou Food & Cultural Tour

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Best Time of Year to Visit the Chaoshan Region

The most ideal time to visit Chaozhou and Shantou is between October and April. This period is milder and more comfortable, and days are less humid.

Chaoshan is in the southern part of China, so the summers (May-September) are hot and sticky with occasional typhoons. If you are the type of visitor who prefers more outdoor activities, then the weather could make your experience less pleasant. However, October to April are milder and more comfortable, and days are less humid. Traveling during this period is really recommended.

Plan Your Chaozhou and Shantou Tour with China Xian Tour

Chaozhou and Shantou are two of the best places for you to explore the culture of the southern part of China. These two peaceful and relaxing towns can offer you a pleasant way of slowly walking into history, and the dining experience can be extremely good. Choose China Xian Tour as your best travel partner, we’ll lead you to see the most beautiful sides of Chaozhou and Shantou. Our private guide and private transfer services will also make your journey incredibly smooth and comfortable.