Meizhou
Meizhou Overview
Chinese Name: 梅州市 English IPA: Location: Population (city): Language: Zip code: Tel code: Time zone:
Geographic Location and Historical Background
Meizhou (梅州市) is a prefecture-level city in the northeastern part of Guangdong Province (广东省), situated at the junction of Fujian (福建), Guangdong (广东), and Jiangxi (江西) provinces. It covers an area of 15,800 square kilometers. During the Sui (隋) and Tang (唐) dynasties, it belonged to Chaozhou (潮州). In the third year of the Qianhe period of the Southern Han (南汉) dynasty (945 AD), Chengxiang (程乡) was elevated to Jingzhou (敬州). In the fourth year of the Kaibao period of the Song dynasty (971 AD), Jingzhou was renamed Meizhou.
In the eleventh year of the Yongzheng period of the Qing dynasty (1733 AD), Chengxiang was promoted to Jiayingzhou (嘉应州), which included Chengxiang, Pingyuan (平远), Zhenping (镇平), and the five counties of Xingning (兴宁), Changle (长乐), which originally belonged to Huizhou (惠州) Prefecture. This area was known as the “Five Divisions of Jiaying.” In 1988, Meizhou was established as a prefecture-level city.
As of 2022, Meizhou governs 2 urban districts, 5 counties, and oversees 1 county-level city. By the end of 2023, the registered population was 5.3508 million, with a permanent population of 3.8491 million.
Cultural Significance and Community
Meizhou is a major departure point for Hakka (客家) people since the Ming (明) and Qing (清) dynasties, and it is recognized as the most representative settlement of Hakka people worldwide, often referred to as the “Hakka Capital of the World” (世界客都). Meizhou is a key overseas Chinese hometown and an important ancestral home for compatriots from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan, with over 7 million overseas Chinese and residents from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan having ancestral ties to Meizhou.
In 2013, UNESCO established the only immigration memorial project in China, the China (Meizhou) Immigration Memorial Square (中国(梅州)移民纪念广场). Additionally, Meizhou is the birthplace of Marshal Ye Jianying (叶剑英), a renowned revolutionary area, a base for cross-strait exchanges, and the only prefecture-level city in Guangdong that is entirely within the former Central Soviet Area.
Other Destinations in Meizhou
Meizhou Attractions
Meizhou, known for its Hakka heritage, has been recognized as the "Hakka Capital of the World." Through the implementation of the National Tourism and Leisure Plan, events such as retracing the ancient Hakka migration paths and the Guangdong Self-Driving Tour Day have made Meizhou a popular destination for car enthusiasts and leisure travelers. In 2013, eighteen scenic spots, including the former residence of Ye Jianying (叶剑英), were designated as the "Eighteen Scenic Spots of Meizhou." In 2017, notable locations like [...]
Meizhou Tours
Meizhou City, located in Guangdong Province, is renowned for its rich Hakka culture, natural beauty, and historical significance. The city offers diverse tourist routes catering to various interests, including cultural exploration, wellness retreats, eco-friendly adventures, and rural experiences. Here’s a brief overview of the main tourist routes: Hakka Cultural Tourism Routes Meizhou is the birthplace of the Hakka people, known for their unique customs, architecture, and cuisine. This route showcases traditional Hakka villages, ancestral halls, and local festivals, providing visitors with an [...]
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Climate & When to Go
Topography and Landforms The overall terrain of Meizhou City (梅州市) is characterized by a higher northern elevation gradually descending toward the southern plains, transitioning from the border of Fujian (福建), Guangdong (广东), and Jiangxi (江西) provinces to the basins of Meixian (梅县) and Xingning (兴宁) before rising again and ultimately descending into the Chaoshan Plain (潮汕平原). The landform can be classified into five major categories based on the geological composition: plains (basins), terraces, tablelands, hills, and mountains. These are formed from [...]
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Transportation
Overview of Meizhou's Geographic Importance Meizhou (梅州市) is strategically located at the junction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the West Coast Economic Zone, and the Yangtze River Delta Economic Zone. It serves as a crucial link between the Shantou (汕头) - Chaozhou (潮州) - Jieyang (揭阳) Plain and the inland areas of southern Jiangxi (江西) and western Fujian (福建). This position allows it to connect two bay areas, neighbor three provinces, and engage with three economic zones, playing an [...]
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Festivals and Activities
Meizhou (梅州市) is rich in cultural heritage and traditions, celebrated through various festivals and events throughout the year. These occasions showcase the unique Hakka culture and local customs, making them a wonderful experience for visitors. Major Festivals Hakka Cultural Festival (客家文化节) Description: This festival celebrates Hakka culture through performances, exhibitions, and traditional food. It highlights the unique customs, music, and art of the Hakka people. Timing: Usually held in late October or early November. Spring Festival (春节) Description: The Chinese New Year is [...]
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Travel Tips
Meizhou City (梅州市), known for its rich Hakka culture and beautiful landscapes, offers a variety of attractions and experiences. Here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your visit. Best Time to Visit Spring (March to May): Ideal weather with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Autumn (September to November): Pleasant climate and stunning fall foliage. Avoid Summer (June to August): High temperatures and humidity can be uncomfortable. Getting Around Public Transport: Buses and taxis are widely available. Consider [...]
Useful Maps
Meizhou (Guangdong) Travel Maps in English includes Maps List of Meizhou Tourist Attractions, Maps of Meizhou Hotels, Maps of Meizhou Tours, Meizhou Subway Maps, Maps of Transportation. It show the specific location maps of main roads, Transportation, railway, stations, Bus Stations, Airports, expressway, administrative division, famous tourist attractions, travel and tours, universities, banks and hospitals. [...]
Meizhou Accommodation
Meizhou City (梅州市) offers a variety of accommodation options catering to different preferences and budgets. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, travelers can find suitable places to stay while exploring the city's rich culture and beautiful landscapes. Recommended Hotels 1. Meizhou International Hotel (梅州国际大酒店) Location: Located in the city center, close to major attractions. Facilities: Offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, conference facilities, and a fitness center. Features: Known for its excellent service and modern amenities. 2. Meizhou Grand Hotel (梅州大酒店) Location: Situated near [...]