Kaiping Diaolou

Introducing Kaiping Diaolou

Kaiping Diaolou is located in Kaiping City, which is under the jurisdiction of Jiangmen City, Guangdong Province. It is a special type of Chinese vernacular architecture. It is a multi-story tower-style building that integrates defense, residence and Chinese and Western architectural art. Its characteristic is that it is a combination of Chinese and Western residential buildings, with styles such as ancient Greece, ancient Rome and Islam. The movies "Let the Bullets Fly" and "The Grandmaster" were filmed here.

Kaiping Diaolou includes four scenic spots: Liyuan, Zili Village Diaolou Group, Chikan Film and Television City, and Jinjiangli Diaolou Group, all of which are worth visiting one by one.

Climate and best time to travel

Kaiping City has a particularly pronounced marine climate with warm winters and cool summers. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: about 1 day

Tickets

Combined ticket (including Liyuan, Zili Village, Majianglong, Jinjiangli, Chikan Film and Television City, South Tower, Kaiyuan Tower): 180.00 yuan

Attraction opening hours

8:30-17:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Kaiping Diaolou

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Kaiping Diaolou are fortified multi-storey towers, built during the early 20th century by overseas Chinese, primarily for defense against bandits. They represent a fusion of Chinese and Western architectural elements, and have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their historical and cultural value.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Kaiping Diaolou is located in Kaiping City, Guangdong Province. It is accessible by taxi or private car from Jiangmen, which is the nearest large city. You can also take a bus from Jiangmen or Guangzhou to reach the site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from October to April, to avoid the hot and humid summer weather.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Kaiping Diaolou is around 60-100 RMB, depending on the site and tour package chosen. Tickets can be purchased online or directly at the ticket counters.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (e.g., public holidays). Booking 1-2 days ahead is usually sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the Diaolou towers and surrounding areas, plan for about 3-4 hours. If you want to take a more leisurely pace and enjoy the scenery, 5 hours might be ideal.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Diaolou towers themselves, with their unique architectural design and historical significance.
• The village surroundings, where you can see traditional homes and the rural Hakka culture.
• The Kaiping Diaolou Cultural Museum, which offers insights into the construction and history of the towers.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may offer services in English. Audio guides are also available, typically in Mandarin, but some locations may offer English guides as well.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The higher floors of the Diaolou towers provide panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
• The natural landscapes around the towers, including rice fields and rivers, make for stunning photography opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the Diaolou towers to get a sense of their history and architecture. Then, explore the nearby village areas to experience local life. End with a visit to the Kaiping Diaolou Cultural Museum to gain deeper insights into the towers’ significance.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Kaiping Diaolou, as the site closes in the evening. However, there may be special cultural events or exhibitions during peak seasons.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays or early in the morning on weekends.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling souvenirs and snacks within the park. Water is available for purchase at the shops.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

While the main attractions are accessible, some of the older Diaolou towers may have steep staircases. However, the site is generally accessible to elderly visitors and children with some caution.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely accepted at the site.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small restaurants within the site offering local Hakka cuisine. Nearby Kaiping city has more restaurant options, including Chinese and local Guangdong dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in the nearby restaurants, though vegan and halal food may be more limited. It's recommended to check ahead if you have specific dietary requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several hotels and guesthouses in the Kaiping area, ranging from budget to mid-range.
• For a more luxurious stay, consider hotels in Jiangmen City, which is about 30-40 minutes away by car.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Chikan Ancient Town, which is known for its traditional Hakka architecture and old streets, is a great nearby attraction.
• In Jiangmen, you can visit the Tangtou Ancient Village, another spot showcasing local architecture and culture.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenir shops are available near the Kaiping Diaolou, selling Hakka-style handicrafts, traditional souvenirs, and local products like dried fruit and tea.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, you can take a taxi or public bus to Jiangmen City or other nearby attractions. Renting a car is also an option if you plan to visit multiple sites in the region.