Shantou Highlights – The Gateway Of East Nanling

Shantou Highlights: The Vibrant Port City Of Chaoshan

A Historic Gateway To Southeast China

Located on the southeast coast of Guangdong, Shantou is a prominent ancestral home for millions of overseas Chinese. As one of China’s original four Special Economic Zones, it serves as the “Gateway of East Nanling.” Shantou is a fascinating blend of early 20th-century European-style architecture and pristine coastal beauty, offering a unique contrast to its neighbor, the ancient city of Chaozhou.

From the bustling streets of the Small Park (Xiao Gong Yuan) to the serene shores of Nanao Island, Shantou invites travelers to explore a rich maritime history, exquisite stone carvings, and a culinary scene that is whispered about in hushed, reverent tones by foodies across the globe.

Must-Visit Coastal And Cultural Landmarks

The Small Park Opening Area (Xiao Gong Yuan) The heart of old Shantou. This area features the largest collection of “Shophouses” (Qilou) in China. Built in the 1930s, these western-style buildings arranged in a spider-web layout tell the story of Shantou’s golden age as a major international trading port.

Queshi Scenic Spot Separated from the city by the Shantou Gulf, Queshi is a miniature garden in the sea. It is famous for its bizarre rock formations, mysterious caves, and panoramic views of the entire Shantou skyline. It is the perfect place for a sunrise hike.

Chen Cihong’s Former Residence Often called the “Forbidden City Of Chaoshan,” this massive estate features 506 rooms across four complexes. Built by a wealthy rice tycoon, the architecture is a stunning fusion of traditional Minnan courtyards and European stained glass and floor tiles.

Nanao Island And The Tropic Of Cancer A pristine island paradise connected by a spectacular 11km cross-sea bridge. Nanao is home to the “Gate Of Nature” monument marking the Tropic of Cancer, beautiful lighthouses, and some of the freshest seafood in Southern China.

Shantou Museum Of Opening Culture Housed in a beautiful historic building, this museum provides a deep dive into how Shantou was forced open as a treaty port in 1860 and how it subsequently became a bridge for cultural exchange between China and the West.

The Ultimate Foodie Pilgrimage: Shantou Beef Hot Pot

Shantou is globally recognized as the capital of Beef Hot Pot. Local chefs are masters of butchery, dividing a cow into over ten distinct cuts based on texture and fat content. Beyond beef, do not miss the Marinated Raw Seafood (Chaoshan Sashimi) and the famous Chenghai Braised Goose. Eating in Shantou is not just a meal; it is a cultural ritual of freshness and precision.

Professional Private Tour Packages

Day Tours In Private Car

Multi-Day Combined Tours

Travel And Transportation Logistics

From Xiamen Shantou is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes by private car from Xiamen. High-speed trains connect Xiamen to Shantou Station in about 2 hours.

To Chaozhou A quick 40-minute trip connects Shantou to Chaozhou, making it easy to visit both cities in one journey.

Our Service We provide premium private car hires with English-speaking guides for seamless travel between Xiamen, Shantou, and Chaozhou. Contact us for a customized itinerary.