Things To Do
in Chaozhou

Chaozhou is a historical city located in Guangdong province, China, known for its rich cultural heritage and unique cuisine. The city showcases traditional architecture, ancient temples, and beautiful landscapes along the Han River. Chaozhou is famed for its tea culture and as a center for the production of fine ceramics.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the local customs and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of its street markets.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cultural Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kaiyuan Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the region, known for its stunning architecture and tranquil gardens.

afternoon
:

Explore the Chaozhou Ancient City Wall and stroll through the historic streets of Chaozhou, admiring the intricate carvings and traditional buildings.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Chaozhou dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk along the Han River to take in the scenic views.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Cuisine
morning
:

Visit the beautiful Fengxi Tidal Wetland Park, where you can enjoy birdwatching and appreciate the natural landscape.

afternoon
:

Head to the bustling Chaozhou Food Market for a lunch of local delicacies and to shop for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant night market scene where you can indulge in street food and local snacks, followed by a visit to a tea house to sample Chaozhou’s famous tea.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$3-$10
Cup of local tea$1-$3
🚌Public transport fare$0.50
🏨Budget hotel night$15-$30
🛍️Souvenir shopping$5-$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious and unique local cuisine.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Chinese speakers.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
  • "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
  • "对不起 (Duìbùqǐ)" - Sorry
  • "请问厕所在哪里?(Qǐngwèn cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Where is the restroom?
  • "多少钱?(Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Chaozhou

Visit one of these nice places.

Kaiyuan Temple

This temple offers stunning architecture and serene gardens, perfect for capturing beautiful photos.

Chaozhou Ancient City Wall

An impressive historical structure that provides a picturesque backdrop for photography.

Han River

The river offers scenic views, especially at sunset, ideal for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chaozhou

Chaozhou is a food lover's paradise, famed for its unique cuisine that emphasizes fresh ingredients and delicate flavors. There are plenty of local dishes you must try when visiting.

Chaozhou Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chaozhou Beef Hotpot

A flavorful hotpot featuring thinly sliced beef and fresh vegetables, cooked in a savory broth.

Must-Try!

Chaozhou Dumplings

Steamed dumplings filled with a variety of ingredients, showcasing the local culinary artistry.

Teochew Porridge

A simple yet delicious rice porridge often served with various side dishes such as pickles and fried fish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chaozhou Food Market

A bustling market where you can find a variety of local snacks, fresh produce, and regional delicacies.

Night Market

A vibrant night market filled with street food vendors offering everything from grilled skewers to sweet treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chaozhou has a subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), while winter temperatures drop to around 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The rainy season typically occurs from May to September, with the heaviest rainfall in June and August. Expect mild and pleasant weather in spring and autumn, making these seasons ideal for visiting.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders, including offering them your seat on public transport.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and use chopsticks appropriately.

Personal Space

Chinese culture values personal space; avoid standing too close to others, especially in queues.

Safety Guide

Safety

Chaozhou is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's always advisable to take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers and local laws.

Tipping in Chaozhou

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Chaozhou, but rounding up the bill is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used; cash is also accepted but less common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is mild and pleasant, making it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, so stay hydrated and consider indoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

Autumn

Autumn brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, perfect for scenic walks and photography.

Winter

Winters are mild but can be rainy; bring an umbrella and enjoy warm tea in cozy cafes.

Nightlife Guide

Chaozhou at Night

Chaozhou's nightlife is vibrant, with numerous street food stalls, tea houses, and local bars. The night markets come alive with vendors selling delectable snacks, and you can find locals enjoying tea and socializing in the evenings. A few bars offer local beers and cocktails, creating a lively atmosphere for those looking to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Chaozhou

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Qingshi Mountain Trail

A moderate hiking trail that offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and is suitable for all skill levels.

Dinghu Mountain

A challenging hike with stunning vistas and diverse flora and fauna, perfect for experienced hikers seeking adventure.

Airports

How to reach Chaozhou by plane.

Shantou Waisha Airport (SWA)

Located approximately 30 km from Chaozhou, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chaozhou is quite walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions are located within walking distance. The streets are lined with shops, eateries, and historical sites, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot. However, be prepared for some uneven sidewalks and occasional vehicle traffic in busy areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Chaozhou, Han Chinese culture significantly influences the local customs, cuisine, and language.

Teochew People

A subgroup of Han Chinese, the Teochew people are known for their distinct dialect and culinary traditions, which are prevalent in Chaozhou.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Table Tennis

Table tennis is a popular sport in Chaozhou, with many local clubs and communities actively participating in the game.

Traditional Chinese Martial Arts

Martial arts, particularly Tai Chi, are practiced widely in public parks, promoting health and wellness among the community.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Chaozhou can be busy during peak hours, especially around the city center. However, the city is manageable for driving and walking. Public transportation includes buses, which are affordable, but routes may not always be well-marked. Ridesharing apps are also available, providing a convenient option for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chaozhou.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask if meat is included in the ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; it's best to communicate your dietary needs clearly to the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Chaozhou are generally accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available throughout the city. Major hospitals provide services to both locals and tourists, but it is advisable to have travel insurance in case of emergencies. Language barriers may arise, so having a translation app can be helpful.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide