
5 Days Guangdong Tour (Chaozhou-Jieyang-Shantou-Chaoshan)
Tour Overview
Explore the cultural and coastal highlights of the Chaoshan region, including Shantou (汕头), Chaozhou (潮州), Nan’ao Island (南澳岛), and Jieyang (揭阳). Immerse yourself in the unique Chaoshan heritage with...
Code of Tour: CDT0000091468
Length of Travel: 5 Day
Destinations of Tour: Chaozhou-Chaoshan-Jieyang-Shantou-Chaozhou
Departure City: Chaozhou
Price of Tour: Request
Type of Tour: Private
Features of Tour:
Explore the cultural and coastal highlights of the Chaoshan region, including Shantou (汕头), Chaozhou (潮州), Nan’ao Island (南澳岛), and Jieyang (揭阳). Immerse yourself in the unique Chaoshan heritage with city walks, island adventures, and delicious local cuisine.
Tour Highlights
Limited-Time Summer Special: Enjoy the powerful Yingge Dance (英歌舞) performance — available from July 12th to August 31st. Performances are subject to weather conditions and the venue’s daily schedule.
1.5-Day Deep Exploration of Nan’ao Island (南澳岛):
Iconic Landmarks: Visit Qihang Lighthouse (启航灯塔) and stay overnight in the lively Houzhai Town (后宅镇), where food options abound.
Beach Getaway: Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Qing’ao Bay (青澳湾), experience the “Nan’ao Blue,” and enjoy a romantic beach vacation.
Classic Chaoshan Cultural Tour:
Shantou Old Town City Walk: Stroll through the century-old commercial port and explore the Shantou Xiaogongyuan (汕头小公园) area, learning about its opening-up history.
Discover Chaoshan Culture: Visit the Chaoshan History and Culture Expo Center (潮汕历史文化博览中心), designed by the team of He Jingtang, the designer of the China Pavilion at the Shanghai World Expo.
See the “Orange Sea”: Board a ferry at Shantou Sentiment Plaza (汕头情怀广场轮渡) for a view of the Queshi Bridge (礐石大桥) against the sunset-lit ocean.
Ancient Chaozhou City: Wander through the historical Chaozhou Ancient City (潮州古城), admire the archway streets, and explore the serene Kaiyuan Temple (开元寺).
Lingnan Water City, Jieyang: A perfect place to relax. Stroll through Jinxian Gate (进贤门), Chenghuang Temple (城隍庙), and Jieyang Confucian Temple (揭阳学宫).
Experience Chaoshan Intangible Cultural Heritage:
Yingge Dance: Limited-time performance from July 12th to August 31st (for tours departing between July 10th and August 29th).
Day By Day Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Chaozhou-Shantou
Morning: Arrival & Transfer to Hotel
Hot Sale Classic 🚄 Arrival in Chaozhou-Shantou with private airport/train station transfer (Chaozhou Airport, Shantou High-Speed Railway Station, Shantou City) – Transfer to hotel – Stay in Shantou for 2 nights without changing hotels ❤️ (Upgrade for groups of 4 or more, customizable itinerary available upon consultation with the operator).
Transportation: Approx. 50 km / 60 minutes
Hotel Check-in: Check-in at the hotel after 14:00. If you arrive early, you can leave your luggage at the front desk and explore the nearby area on your own.
Hotel Info: Specific hotel details will be provided by 20:00 the day before departure.
Note: The hotel booking includes your accommodation only. Meals and additional services may require extra payment or pre-booking.
Special Notes:
Free transfer location: Chaozhou-Shantou Airport, Chaozhou Station, Shantou Station. If you are coming from other locations, additional charges may apply and should be communicated in advance with the operator.
Transfer service is only available on the travel day. Early or delayed transfers cannot be arranged.
Car type: Minimum of a 5-seat car for transfers. This is a complimentary service. If unused, there is no refund.
16:00: Free Activity
Suggested Free Activity: Visit Xiao Gongyuan (小公园), a popular park in Shantou, if you arrive early. The park is a good spot to relax, and the surrounding area offers local food options (transportation not included).
You can enjoy free time to explore the city, visit local shops, or try regional delicacies on your own.
Day 02: Chaozhou-Shantou – Jieyang (揭阳) – Shantou
08:00: Breakfast
Meals: Breakfast at the selected hotel. The time may vary based on the hotel’s serving hours.
Adults & Children: Based on the selected hotel
Meal Time: Approx. 30 minutes
Note: Ensure you check the meal details such as cancellation policies, room type, and breakfast offerings when booking the hotel.
09:30: Sightseeing in Jieyang
Jieyang (揭阳) is a charming water town in the Lingnan region. Visit historical and cultural landmarks:
Jinxianmen City Tower (进贤门城楼) – A well-preserved ancient city gate that is a symbol of Jieyang’s rich history.
Jieyang City God Temple (揭阳城隍庙) – A Taoist temple dedicated to the protector of the city, offering a peek into the local spiritual culture.
Jieyang Academy (揭阳学宫) – An ancient Confucian school, showcasing traditional education and architecture.
Zhongshan Arcade Street (揭阳古城中山骑楼街) – A historical street featuring colonial-era architecture, known for its cultural significance and beautiful buildings.
Transportation: Approx. 50 km / 59 minutes
Activity Time: Approx. 2 hours
11:30: Lunch
Meals: Lunch is not included. You are encouraged to try local delicacies at your own expense. The guide will assist with recommendations.
Suggested areas: Explore local restaurants in Jieyang Ancient City where you can enjoy local dishes such as “Chaozhou-style dumplings” and “Oyster Omelets”.
Note: The tour guide will provide recommendations for convenient dining spots. The cost of the meals is self-catered.
14:00: Chaozhou-Shantou History & Culture Exhibition Center
Visit the Chaozhou-Shantou History & Culture Exhibition Center (潮汕历史文化博览中心), a museum showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region, including historical artifacts, ancient documents, and displays on local customs.
Note: The museum is closed on Mondays, so check before visiting. If the museum is closed on your travel day, you will only view the exterior, and no price adjustments will be made.
Booking Requirements: If you wish to enter the museum, advance reservations are required through the museum’s WeChat account.
Transportation: Approx. 90 km / 60 minutes
Activity Time: Approx. 1 hour
15:30: Shantou City Exploration
Xiao Gongyuan (小公园): Another visit to Shantou’s iconic park for sightseeing and relaxation.
Shantou Hostel: Visit this local historical building for a glimpse of Shantou’s early tourism history.
Shantou Post Office Building: A colonial-era building with European architectural influences.
Shantou Open Port Culture Museum: A museum dedicated to the cultural history of Shantou as an open port city.
Department Store Building: An old-style commercial building representing the traditional business culture of the city.
Transportation: Approx. 20 km / 20 minutes
Activity Time: Approx. 2 hours
16:30: Shantou Inner Sea Bay Cruise
Inner Sea Bay Cruise: Enjoy a boat ride in Shantou’s Inner Sea Bay, especially beautiful during sunset when the water reflects the orange hues of the setting sun. It’s a perfect way to relax and take in the scenic views.
Transportation: Approx. 5 km / 10 minutes
Activity Time: Approx. 10 minutes
17:30: Dinner
Meals: Dinner is not included. You are recommended to visit the following popular local restaurants for traditional Chaozhou Beef Hotpot:
Xinghua Wuji Beef Hotpot (杏花吴记牛肉火锅) – A famous spot for Chaozhou-style beef hotpot.
Bali Beef Hotpot (八合里牛肉火锅) – A well-loved local chain specializing in beef hotpot.
Alternatively, try Modern Chaozhou Cuisine or Zhuangshi Xiangji Chaozhou for local flavors.
Note: You can choose your restaurant based on personal preferences, but the meal cost is not included in the package. The guide will assist with recommendations.
Transportation: Approx. 10 km / 20 minutes
Meal Time: Approx. 1 hour
Day 03: Shantou
08:00 – Breakfast
Meals: Start your day with breakfast at your chosen hotel.
For Adults: Breakfast is provided according to your selected hotel.
For Children: Breakfast is provided according to your selected hotel.
Note: Meal and activity times are estimates and can vary depending on the hotel and itinerary schedule.
This itinerary allows you to choose your hotel and room type, which includes breakfast. Please check the hotel’s details, including breakfast offerings, cancellation policies, room amenities, and hotel facilities.
Meal Time: Approx. 30 minutes
09:00 – Attraction: Chen Cihong Former Residence (陈慈黉故居) & Chaozhou English Dance (潮汕英歌舞表演)**
Chen Cihong Former Residence (陈慈黉故居)
The former residence of Chen Cihong, a notable figure in Chaozhou’s history. The architecture and décor showcase traditional Chaozhou-style construction and the cultural heritage of this region.
Travel: Approx. 30 km / 30 minutes from your hotel.
Activity Time: Approx. 1 hour.
Chaozhou English Dance Performance (潮汕英歌舞表演)
Experience the lively and vibrant English Dance (英歌舞), a traditional folk dance from the Chaozhou region, performed with energetic movements and distinctive costumes. Performances are scheduled based on the day’s availability.
Note: This performance depends on the schedule and timing of the scenic area.
Activity Time: Approx. 30 minutes to 1 hour.
10:00 – Travel to Nan’ao Island (南澳岛)
Destination: Depart by car to Nan’ao Island, a charming and scenic island known for its pristine coastline, clear waters, and rich cultural heritage. It is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Sea” due to its natural beauty.
Travel Distance: Approx. 50 km / 50 minutes from Chaozhou.
Activity Time: Approx. 50 minutes of travel time.
11:00 – Attraction: Nan’ao Bridge (南澳大桥)
Nan’ao Bridge: A striking bridge that connects the mainland to Nan’ao Island, offering a picturesque view of the sea and surrounding landscapes.
Activity Time: Approx. 10 minutes for photo stops and sightseeing.
11:00 – Attractions on Nan’ao Island
Explore Nan’ao Island’s famous lighthouses and wind power fields, which offer scenic views and a glimpse into the island’s sustainable energy efforts.
Changshanwei Lighthouse (长山尾灯塔)
A historic lighthouse situated on Nan’ao Island, offering panoramic views of the coastline. The lighthouse has stood as a beacon for ships navigating through the South China Sea.
Qian’ao Bay Lighthouse (钱澳湾灯塔)
Another notable lighthouse, located along the coast of Qian’ao Bay, providing views of the rugged coastline and the deep blue ocean.
Sancongya Lighthouse (三囱崖灯塔)
A lighthouse located in the eco-tourism zone of Nan’ao Island, known for its unspoiled natural beauty and stunning coastal scenery.
Wind Power Field Tour Area (风电场游览区)
Visit the wind power station on the island and see the large wind turbines that generate renewable energy. The windmills are a major feature of Nan’ao Island’s sustainable energy efforts.
Note: Visitors do not enter the wind power station but can enjoy the sight of the large wind turbines at Qizai Peng (蛴仔澎).
Travel Distance: Approx. 10 km / 20 minutes.
Activity Time: Approx. 30 minutes for lighthouse exploration and photos.
12:00 – Lunch (Self-Catered)
Local Snack Recommendation:
Hai Shi Hua (海石花): A local and refreshing cold dessert, often consumed in the summer. This treat is made from seaweed harvested from Nan’ao Island and is served with sweet potato powder and sugar, giving it a smooth texture that is both sweet and cooling.
Restaurant Recommendations:
Nan’ao Tiaohai Seafood Restaurant (南澳讨海人海鲜餐厅)
Address: No. 19, Xianghu Bay, Qing’ao Bay, Nan’ao.
Enjoy a variety of fresh seafood dishes.
Nan’ao Chelsea Restaurant (南澳车路士餐厅) – A five-star recommendation on Mafengwo. Specialties include stir-fried clams, pepper salt prawns, boiled shrimp, and unique seaweed fried rice.
Address: Shops 2-3, Xianghu Bay, Qing’ao Bay, Nan’ao.
Travel Distance: Approx. 5 km / 10 minutes.
Meal Time: Approx. 1 hour.
14:00 – Attraction: Tropic of Cancer Marker – Natural Gate (北回归线标志自然之门) & Qing’ao Bay (青澳湾)**
Tropic of Cancer Marker (北回归线标志自然之门): Located on Nan’ao Island, this marker signifies the Tropic of Cancer, one of the Earth’s major latitudes. It is an important geographic feature and a popular photo spot.
Qing’ao Bay (青澳湾): Known for its clear waters and sandy beaches, Qing’ao Bay is an excellent place for relaxation and enjoying the beautiful coastal views of Nan’ao Island.
Travel Distance: Approx. 40 km / 40 minutes.
Activity Time: Approx. 2 hours for exploration and relaxation at Qing’ao Bay.
Evening – Return to Hotel
Return to your selected hotel for an overnight stay.
Note: Please review the hotel and room types, including breakfast options, cancellation policies, and amenities before confirming your selection.
Travel Distance: Approx. 10 km / 20 minutes.
Your day ends with a peaceful evening at the hotel, after a day filled with history, culture, and scenic beauty on Nan’ao Island.
Day 04: Shantou – Chao-Shan
08:00 – Breakfast
For Adults: Based on your selected hotel.
For Children: Based on your selected hotel.
This product offers you the flexibility to select your hotel and room type. Please make sure to check the room details, including the number of breakfasts, cancellation policy, room type, and facilities.
Meal time: Approx. 30 minutes
08:30 – Free Activity
Recommendation: Nan’ao Island (南澳岛)
If you prefer a more relaxed morning, sleep in and wake up naturally. If you’re an early riser, you can take a stroll along the seaside road to watch the beautiful sunrise. Nan’ao Island, known for its pristine beaches and clear waters, is also an option for an early visit.
10:30 – Gather and Depart for Chaozhou
Activity Time: Approx. 2 hours
10:30 – Transportation
Gather at your hotel and depart for Chaozhou (潮州) by car.
The drive takes approximately 70 km / 60 minutes, passing through scenic rural landscapes, which offer an interesting look at local life in the Chao-Shan region.
11:30 – Attractions/Sites
Han Wen Gong Memorial Hall (韩文公祠)
This memorial hall is dedicated to Han Yu, a famous poet from the Tang Dynasty, and it holds a significant place in Chaozhou’s cultural heritage. You’ll experience the traditional architecture and the serene surroundings, offering a glimpse into the city’s history.
If the Memorial Hall is closed on the day of your visit (as it is closed on Mondays), the tour will be shifted to Chaozhou West Lake (潮州西湖). This scenic park offers tranquil walking paths and the chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. No refund will be given in case of a venue change since both sites are free attractions.
Activity time: Approx. 1 hour
12:30 – Lunch
For lunch, you will be introduced to local delicacies at several recommended restaurants:
- Han Shang Lou (韩上楼) – Famous for Chaozhou Cuisine
- Wu Xiang Ji (吴祥记潮州菜) – Renowned for Chaozhou delicacies
- Guantang Brothers Beef Hotpot (官塘兄弟牛肉火锅店) – Enjoy a hotpot experience at the Lianyun Flagship Store
Since there are fewer people in the group, it might be challenging to arrange a group meal. You will be responsible for your own meal, but your guide will provide you with useful recommendations on where to eat and local specialty dishes. The guide’s meal cost is not to be covered by you.
Suggested budget: 80 CNY per person
Drive: Approx. 5 km / 10 minutes
Meal time: Approx. 1 hour
15:00 – Attractions/Sites
Guangji Bridge (广济桥)
After lunch, visit the Guangji Bridge, one of Chaozhou’s iconic landmarks. The bridge, originally built during the Tang Dynasty, is an architectural marvel, with its unique design combining functionality and beauty. It’s one of the oldest and longest bridges in Guangdong province.
Drive: Approx. 1 km / 5 minutes
Activity time: Approx. 1 hour
16:00 – Attractions/Sites
Kaiyuan Temple (开元寺)
Next, visit Kaiyuan Temple, a renowned Buddhist temple in the Chaozhou area. The temple is known for its history, architectural beauty, and peaceful atmosphere. If the temple happens to be temporarily closed, you will only have the chance to view it from the outside.
Activity time: Approx. 30 minutes
17:30 – Attractions/Sites
Paifang Street (牌坊街)
Your next stop is Paifang Street, a charming pedestrian street lined with traditional Chaozhou architecture. You can explore the quaint shops and local markets while enjoying the atmosphere of this ancient area. The street is known for its historic archways, which serve as gateways to the old city.
Activity time: Approx. 1 hour
18:30 – Dinner
For dinner, you have the opportunity to explore the vibrant street food scene at Paifang Street in Chaozhou Old City. The area offers a wide variety of local snacks, from savory dishes to sweet treats. Feel free to explore and try something new.
Dinner is self-arranged, and your guide will offer helpful suggestions based on local specialties.
Since the group size is small, arranging a formal group meal is difficult, but your guide will recommend convenient eating spots and introduce you to Chaozhou’s local culinary delights. The guide’s meal expenses are not your responsibility.
Drive: Approx. 5 km / 10 minutes
Meal time: Approx. 1 hour
Day 05: Departure from Chao-Shan
08:00 – Breakfast
For Adults: Based on your selected hotel.
For Children: Based on your selected hotel.
(Departure time and meal times are for reference only.)
This product offers you the flexibility to select your hotel and room type. Please make sure to check your selected hotel’s room details, including breakfast count, cancellation policy, room type, and facilities.
Meal time: Approx. 30 minutes
09:00 – Free Activity
Recommendation: Chaozhou Ancient City (潮州古城)
If your flight departs later in the day, you can take some time to explore the Chaozhou Ancient City on your own. Please note that this does not include transportation services.
Drive: Approx. 20 km / 30 minutes
Activity time: Approx. 1 hour
All Day – Transportation
Your Shantou + Chaozhou + Jieyang trip is coming to an end. Please check out from the hotel before the latest check-out time (12:00). If you experience any delays and incur additional charges for late check-out, they will be at your own expense.
There will be no guide or group activities on this day.
Warm Reminders
Free VIP Transfer Service: We provide free transportation to Jieyang Chaoshan Airport (揭阳潮汕机场), Chaoshan Railway Station (潮汕站), or Shantou Railway Station (汕头站). If you require pickup from a location outside of these areas, please communicate with the service provider to confirm any additional charges.
The VIP Transfer Service is available only on the day of the tour. Early or delayed transfers are not available, so please understand.
The vehicle for the airport or station transfer is a 5-seater car, and this service is a free bonus. If you choose not to use it, there will be no refund.
Drive: Approx. 40 km / 50 minutes
Service Included:
- Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
- Meals as listed in the itinerary;
- Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
- Private English-speaking tour guide;
- Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
- Service charge & government taxes;
- Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;
- Domestic train tickets of soft sleeper.
Service Excluded:
- Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
- Single room supplement;
- Tips to guides and drivers;
- Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
- Personal travel accident insurance;
- All optional programs.