Shantou City

Introducing Shantou City

Shantou is one of the birthplaces of Chaoshan culture. As the saying goes, "where there's seawater, there are Chaoshan people," and wherever there are Chaoshan people, there's Chaoshan culture. Shantou's Chaoshan culture boasts a long history, originating from the ancestors of the Chaoshan people, taking shape in the Qin and Han dynasties, developing in the Tang and Song dynasties, flourishing in the Ming and Qing dynasties, and innovating in modern times. It is a branch of the fine traditional culture of the Chinese nation, characterized by its integration of Chinese and Western cultures. Shantou boasts its own unique Chaoshan dialect, Chaoshan opera, Chaoshan music, Chaoshan cuisine, Gongfu tea, Chaoshan crafts, and Chaoshan folk customs. Shantou is a major port city in China, one of the earliest special economic zones opened in China, and a key component of the Haixi Economic Zone. Shantou Port, established in 1860, is known as the "Gateway to the East of the Lingnan Mountains, the Key Point of South China," "Zou Lu of the Coast, and the Land of Cuisine." It has been recognized as one of China's Excellent Tourist Cities, one of China's Top 100 Cities for Investment Environment, a Chinese Brand Economy City, a National Demonstration City for Intellectual Property, a National Demonstration City for E-commerce, a National Pilot City for Information Consumption, a National Model City for the Support of the People's Republic of China and the People's Liberation Army-Civilian Unity," and a Chinese stationery production base.

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Most Popular FAQs for Shantou City

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

Shantou, established as a Special Economic Zone in the 1980s, has a rich history as a major port city. It played an important role in foreign trade and cultural exchange during the Qing dynasty and is known for its unique Teochew culture.

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

Shantou is located in the eastern part of Guangdong Province, China. It can be easily reached by taxi, bus, or train from nearby cities like Chaozhou and Guangzhou. There is also an airport in Shantou for international and domestic flights.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions in Shantou are open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (March to May, September to November) for mild weather and fewer tourists.

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

Entrance fees for major attractions in Shantou typically range from 20 to 80 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the venue or online through tourism websites.

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

Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for popular attractions like Nan'ao Island or during peak tourist seasons. Booking 1-2 days ahead is usually sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes about half a day to explore Shantou's main attractions like the Old Town and Shantou Museum. If visiting natural sites like Nan'ao Island or Queshi Mountain, plan for a full day.

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

• The Queshi Mountain for panoramic views.
• The Shantou Old Town for a glimpse of traditional architecture.
• Nan'ao Island for its beautiful beaches.

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

Guided tours are available for most attractions in Shantou. The tours are typically in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides may be arranged at select sites.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Queshi Mountain offers great views of the city and coastline.
• Nan'ao Island's beaches are perfect for capturing sunset shots.
• The Shantou skyline, particularly from the Special Economic Zone, is great for cityscape photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your day with a visit to Shantou Old Town, followed by the Shantou Museum. After lunch, head to Nan'ao Island or Queshi Mountain for scenic views and outdoor activities.

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

Shantou doesn't offer many night light shows, but the city’s skyline is beautiful at night, especially around the Special Economic Zone. Some areas like Queshi Mountain may also be visited at night for a peaceful atmosphere.

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

The city is generally not very crowded. Weekdays, especially outside the summer vacation months, are less crowded. Weekends and public holidays can see an influx of domestic tourists.

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

Most tourist sites in Shantou are equipped with toilets, rest areas, and food vendors. Some popular spots, like Nan'ao Island, also have small shops selling snacks and local products.

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

Most attractions, such as the Old Town and Shantou Museum, are accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, some natural spots like Queshi Mountain may have rough terrain, which could be challenging for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in Shantou, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and remote locations.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Shantou offers a variety of local seafood restaurants and eateries in the Old Town area.
• Cafes and snack bars are available near Nan'ao Island and other popular tourist areas.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

While Shantou is known for its seafood, there are vegetarian and vegan options at local restaurants. Halal food is also available in select places catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are numerous hotels ranging from budget accommodations to luxury resorts in Shantou. Many are located near the Special Economic Zone and the Old Town area.
• For a beachside experience, there are seaside resorts on Nan'ao Island.

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

• Chaozhou, known for its ancient temples and traditional architecture, is a short drive away.
• The nearby Hailing Island offers beautiful beaches and natural scenery.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops in the Old Town and around major tourist spots. Typical souvenirs include local handicrafts, seafood products, and Teochew-style tea sets.

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

• Taxis or private cars are ideal for exploring nearby cities like Chaozhou and Hailing Island.
• There are buses connecting Shantou to other parts of Guangdong Province.