Chaozhou

What are the most recommended things to do in Chaozhou?

  • Visit the Chaozhou Ancient City for its historical buildings and traditional Teochew culture.
  • Explore the famous Kaiyuan Temple, one of the largest and oldest temples in the region.
  • Take a stroll along the Hanjiang River, especially during the evening for scenic views.
  • Enjoy the local food, including Chaozhou-style dim sum, and visit the traditional food markets.
  • Visit the Chaozhou Museum to learn about the city's rich cultural and historical significance.

Introducing Chaozhou

Chaozhou, located in the eastern part of Guangdong and bordering Fujian Province to the east, is a national historical and cultural city and an important birthplace of Chaozhou culture. It is known as the "Famous State in Linghai" and the "First City in Lingdong".

Chaozhou boasts numerous unique cultural offerings, including Chaozhou embroidery, Chaozhou opera, Chaozhou woodcarving, Chaozhou cuisine, Chaozhou Kung Fu tea, and Chaozhou folk houses. Chaozhou also boasts abundant tourism resources, including the Eight Scenic Spots of Chaozhou, both old and new. Chaozhou's unique charm continues to attract numerous visitors.

Climate and best time to travel

September-November.

Chaozhou has a subtropical marine monsoon climate, with relatively high temperatures in July and August.

The average temperature throughout the year is 21°C. Chaozhou has abundant rainfall and is green year-round.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Guangji Bridge

Guangji Bridge, commonly known as Xiangzi Bridge, was built in 1171 AD and is one of the "Four Great Ancient Bridges of China," along with Zhaozhou Bridge, Luoyang Bridge, and Lugou Bridge. Its ancient and charming bridge deck, spanning the Han River, combines beam, arch, and floating structures, creating a unique structure that is considered a unique example of a Chinese bridge.

Paifang Street

Located in Chaozhou's old city, Paifang Street boasts 22 memorial archways, each dedicated to the achievements of numerous Chaozhou heroes. Most memorial archways were erected for successful scholars, top-ranking scholars, and ministers. The oldest archway on the street is the Zhushi Archway, dating back to 1517. Numerous arcade-style buildings remain along the street. Besides exploring the historical sites, the food is even more enticing, with Chaozhou-style handmade beef balls, taro cakes, and duck eye twists all offering unique flavors.


Most Popular FAQs for Chaozhou

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

Chaozhou has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years and is known for its Teochew culture, including unique cuisine, opera, and traditional arts. The city played an important role during the Tang Dynasty as a port and trading hub.

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

Chaozhou is located in the eastern part of Guangdong Province, China. You can get there by train or bus from major nearby cities like Shantou and Guangzhou. The city does not have a metro, but taxis and buses are readily available.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions in Chaozhou are open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the spring and autumn (March to May, September to November) when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor exploration.

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

Entrance fees for popular sites like Kaiyuan Temple and the Chaozhou Museum typically range from 20-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through online tourism platforms.

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

Booking tickets in advance is recommended for the most popular attractions, especially during peak tourist seasons or holidays. Booking 1-2 days in advance should suffice.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore the main attractions of Chaozhou in a day, including the ancient city, temples, and a leisurely stroll along the river. A more detailed exploration of the city might take 2 days.

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

  • The ancient city walls and historical buildings in the Chaozhou Ancient City.
  • The grand Kaiyuan Temple.
  • The scenic Hanjiang River, especially the waterfront area.
  • The traditional teahouses and food markets offering local Chaozhou cuisine.

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

Guided tours are available at major attractions such as the Chaozhou Ancient City and Kaiyuan Temple, generally in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The Hanjiang River at sunset offers stunning views for photography.
  • From the top of Kaiyuan Temple, you can capture the whole city.
  • The Chaozhou Ancient City’s old walls and traditional streets provide excellent historical shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended route is to start by visiting the Chaozhou Ancient City and its historic sites, then head to the Kaiyuan Temple. In the afternoon, explore the Hanjiang River, followed by dinner at one of the local restaurants.

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

Chaozhou does not typically offer light shows, but the city is charming at night, particularly around the riverfront. The atmosphere is peaceful and scenic for evening walks.

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

Chaozhou is not as crowded as other tourist hotspots in Guangdong, but weekends and public holidays can bring in more domestic tourists. Weekdays, especially in the off-season, are the best time to avoid crowds.

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

Most tourist attractions have toilets, rest areas, and food stalls. Local markets and food streets offer a wide range of snacks and drinks. Some places may also have small souvenir shops.

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

The main tourist sites in Chaozhou, including the Ancient City and Kaiyuan Temple, are accessible to elderly and children. However, some areas with old architecture and uneven paths may be challenging for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is not necessary in Chaozhou, as mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in most places. However, it’s always good to have some cash on hand for small purchases in markets.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Local restaurants in Chaozhou serve delicious Teochew cuisine, such as Chaozhou-style dumplings, roast meats, and seafood.
  • Cafes and tea houses around the city offer traditional Chinese tea sets and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available at many restaurants serving traditional Chaozhou cuisine. Halal food is available at some restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • There are various accommodations ranging from budget hotels to more luxurious resorts in the Chaozhou city center, close to major attractions like the Ancient City and Kaiyuan Temple.

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

  • Shantou, which offers more seaside attractions, is a short drive away.
  • Hailing Island, known for its beaches, is also nearby and can be included in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops in the Chaozhou Ancient City and around the Hanjiang River. Common souvenirs include local teas, Teochew-style ceramics, and traditional handicrafts.

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

  • Taxis, buses, and private cars are the most convenient ways to travel from Chaozhou to nearby cities like Shantou and Hailing Island.
  • There are also trains and buses available to other parts of Guangdong Province.