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Shengtang Catholic Church, also known as Weizhou Catholic Church, is a Catholic church located on Weizhou Island in Beihai City, Guangxi, China. Most of the island's locals are Catholics, and the church has choir performances daily. Every Sunday, the church is closed for a few hours for locals to worship, and no one is allowed to disturb them.
The towering and majestic cathedral, set against the backdrop of the low-rise residential buildings surrounding it, appears both large and imposing. Atop the main entrance is a bell tower, its Romanesque spire towering over it, seemingly poised to strike heavenward at any moment, creating a unique illusion of "celestial mystery."
There's stained glass behind the altar, and large pointed-arch windows on both sides of the hall, which are particularly beautiful when the sun shines in. Going out the side door of the church, you can see century-old mango and jackfruit trees. Outside the church, there are many stalls selling things, and the farmers' market sells seafood at noon and in the afternoon.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: about 1 hour
Free, included in the Weizhou Island pass
May 1st - October 31st: 8:00-18:00
November 1st - April 30th: 8:00-17:30
Shengtang Catholic Church is a historic church reflecting the spread of Catholicism in North Sea, Guangxi. Built in a European Gothic style, it has served as a religious, cultural, and social center for the local Catholic community for many decades.
Located in North Sea, Guangxi. Accessible by taxi or local bus; walking is possible from nearby hotels or city centers.
The church is typically open from 8:00 to 18:00. Visiting in the morning or weekdays provides a quieter experience.
Entry is free. Donations are welcome but optional; no tickets are required.
No advance booking is needed for general visits. For attending Mass or special ceremonies, it may be recommended to confirm with the church in advance.
30–60 minutes is sufficient for exploring the church and its immediate surroundings.
Guided tours are occasionally available, usually in Chinese. Audio guides are not commonly provided.
Enter through the main doors, explore the nave, visit side chapels if available, observe stained glass and altar, then exit to view the exterior and surrounding area.
Night visits are generally limited; special lit events may occur during Christian holidays.
Weekdays and mornings are less crowded. Sundays and religious holidays are busier due to Mass attendees.
Basic facilities include benches and areas for prayer. Toilets and food options may need to be found nearby.
The church is mostly accessible, though some steps or older sections may limit wheelchair access. Elderly and children can generally navigate with care.
Cash may be needed for donations. No entry fees are required, and cards/mobile payments are not typically used for general visits.
Local restaurants and small cafes are within walking distance, offering traditional Guangxi cuisine and casual dining options.
Vegetarian options are available at some nearby restaurants; vegan and halal options are limited and should be confirmed locally.
Several mid-range hotels and guesthouses are nearby, providing convenient access to the church and surrounding streets.
Souvenir shops nearby sell local crafts, religious items, and small decorative products.
Taxi, local buses, and rental bikes are convenient for traveling to nearby attractions, beaches, or the city center.
