Every time I hear someone say "Go to Chaoshan," I want to shout out: Chaoshan isn't just one city! It's a treasure trove of three cities, Chaozhou, Shantou, and Jieyang, each with its own unique charm. Not only does it offer incredible food, but it also boasts a rich cultural heritage and a slow-paced lifestyle. This guide will help you discover the best of all three cities!
📅 Itinerary (4-Day, 3-Night Classic Loop)
Day 1: Chaozhou · A Journey Through Thousands of Ancient Charms
Morning: Upon arrival in Chaozhou, head straight to Paifang Street. Over twenty ancient archways connect the arcade-style streets, making it a leisurely stroll. At Hu Rongquan's historic restaurant on the street, you can enjoy authentic duck nuan (sweet soup), which is refreshingly sweet without being greasy.
Afternoon: Walk from Paifang Street to Guangji Bridge. This "world's oldest swing-and-bend bridge" is accessible during the day, and in the evening, witness the unique spectacle of the bridge being dismantled after crossing the river (the floating bridge section is removed). Across the bridge, visit the Han Wenggong Temple (reservations required) for panoramic views of Chaozhou.
Evening: The Guangji Bridge light show is a must-see! The ancient city wall is particularly stunning when illuminated at night. For dinner, we recommend the Guantang Brothers Beef Hotpot. The freshly cut beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender and pairs perfectly with the shacha sauce!
Accommodation Tip: Stay near Paifang Street for convenient shopping and late-night snacks.
Day 2: Shantou: The Vibrant Old City and the Romantic Island
Morning: Drive to Shantou (approximately 1 hour) and first visit the Xiaogongyuan Historical and Cultural District. The Sun Yat-sen Memorial Pavilion and the radial arcade streets are iconic Shantou landmarks, perfect for vintage photoshoots. Enjoy a cup of cao gao (cau jelly) along the roadside to cool off.
Lunch: Head straight to Xidi Park to admire the views of the Luoshi Bridge and the inner bay, then stop by Lao Zi Niang Kue Juice Shop for a bowl of kue jiu (rice soup) with a rich and flavorful braised topping.
Afternoon: Take a boat to Nan'ao Island (reserve half a day). We recommend a self-drive tour or charter car around the island. The sands of Qing'ao Bay are fine, and the natural gate at the Tropic of Cancer Square is a must-see. The sea, bathed in gold at dusk, is truly relaxing.
Evening: Return to the city and enjoy Chaoshan "daleng" (a night-time food stall) at Fuyuan Restaurant. Enjoy fish rice, raw marinated shrimp, and a braised platters. Choose from a wide variety of options.
Accommodation: Stay in a beachfront B&B on Nan'ao Island or return to Shantou's old town.
Day 3: Jieyang: The Understated Water City of Lingnan
Morning: Depart from Shantou to Jieyang (approximately 40 minutes). Visit Huangmanzhai Waterfall, known as the "First Waterfall of Lingnan." Hidden deep in the mountains, the waterfalls offer a refreshing and refreshing experience.
Noon: Enjoy Hakka cuisine in Jiexi County. Leicha (pounded tea) paired with rice cakes and peanuts offers a rich and complex flavor.
Afternoon: Visit Jieyang Xuegong (Confucius Temple), the largest Confucian temple in Lingnan, with its red walls and glazed tiles, perfect for photo ops. The Jinxianmen Tower next door is a symbol of Jieyang, and locals often stroll here in the evenings.
Evening: The Rongcheng Night Market offers barbecue, oyster omelets, and sugar-scallion pancakes, all full of life and perfect for a stroll.
Day 4: Catch up on the highlights of the three cities or experience them in depth.
- For those who love culture: Longhu Ancient Village in Chaozhou (an ancient village with pristine ecological character) and Chen Cihong's Former Residence in Shantou (a luxurious residence with a blend of Chinese and Western styles) are worth exploring.
- For those who love nature: Relax at the Jieyang Jingming Hot Spring Resort or experience fishing at Nan'ao Island.
- Before you leave, don't forget to buy some souvenirs: Chaozhou's traditional medicinal oranges, Shantou beef balls, and Jieyang ping pong cakes are all great to take home.
✨ Detailed Guide
1. Transportation: Buses and taxis are readily available between the three cities of Chaozhou and Shantou, but chartering a car or driving is recommended for inter-city attractions. Walking and pedicab rides within Chaozhou's old city are even more enjoyable. 2. Food Highlights:
- Chaozhou: Beef Hot Pot, Fermented Tofu Pancakes, Salted Rice Cake
- Shantou: Pickled Vegetables, Horseshoe Crab Rice Cake, Licorice Fruit
- Jieyang: Puning Dried Tofu, Rice Cake Juice, Putian Bamboo Shoot Rice Cake
3. Tips: Choose fresh seafood restaurants for raw and pickled seafood, and those with weak stomachs should only try a small portion. Reserve a table for the Guangji Bridge light show during holidays.
4. Season: Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons, while summer can be hot and rainy, but fruit is plentiful (lychees and longans are always filling!).
📌 Summary
The three cities of Chaoshan are like a puzzle: Chaozhou offers a cultural backdrop, Shantou offers a maritime atmosphere, and Jieyang offers a hidden gem of nature. First-time visitors can follow this circular itinerary. If you have more time, we recommend staying two nights in each city for a deeper experience. Who says you can't enjoy both food and history? Come here and your stomach and heart will be filled!