Raoping Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com

Raoping

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About Raoping

22℃

Recommended length of visit

1-3 days

Local currency

CNY

Recommended stays in Raoping

Discover the most popular places to stay in Raoping, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers

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Must-try food in Raoping

Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Raoping dishes and foodie spots.

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Quick bites

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Recent events and experiences in Raoping

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Raoping itinerary ideas

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Raoping 1-Day Trip: Coastal Cliffs and Island Ease

1 Days
  1. DAY01Chaozhou Green Island Tourist VillaQinglan Guaijiu Valley National Geopark
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Raoping 2-Day Tour:A Refreshing Island Holiday Between Mountains and Sea

2 Days

This relaxed 2-day route keeps the pace light while showing two very different sides of Raoping: rugged volcanic-and-glacial landforms at Qinglan Guaijiu Valley, a softer lakeside afternoon at Green Island Tourist Villa, and a slow island day on Xunzhou Island with fishing-village scenes, sandy shorelines, and sea-facing rock formations.

  1. DAY01Qinglan Guaijiu Valley National GeoparkChaozhou Green Island Tourist Villa
  2. DAY02Xunzhou Island
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Raoping 3-Day Trip: Island Days and Coastal Escape

3 Days
  1. DAY01Qinglan Guaijiu Valley National GeoparkChaozhou Green Island Tourist Villa
  2. DAY02Xunzhou Island
  3. DAY03Xi'ao Island
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Traveller photos and experiences

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Chaozhou Autumn Wanderlust | 9 Hidden Gems to Turn Time into Poetry — traveler post in Raoping

Chaozhou Autumn Wanderlust | 9 Hidden Gems to Turn Time into Poetry

As the autumn breeze brushes over the Han River, Chaozhou's fall hides itself in redwoods, golden rice fields, ancient alleys, and persimmon markets. Escape the crowds and unlock the slow-paced charm of autumn. 1. Maple Island Park | Riverside Forest Retreat 🍁 A secluded island on the Han River, lush with greenery reflected in the water. Winding trails meander through the woods, offering a serene spot to sit and listen to the wind. 💖 Outfit: Light green knit sweater/white dress + canvas shoes for a natural, forest-inspired look. 💡 Tip: Visit between 8:00-10:00 AM or 4:00-6:00 PM to capture the river and forest in one frame along the riverside trail. 2. Jinshan Bridge Wetland Park | The "Little Erhai" of Redwoods 🌊 Bald cypress trees turn shades of orange and yellow, their reflections on the lake resembling an oil painting. Wooden walkways weave through the forest, with fallen leaves creating a soothing atmosphere. 💖 Outfit: Trench coat with a turtleneck sweater, or a white sweater paired with red accents. 💡 Tip: Best visited mid-November to early December, from 3:00-5:00 PM for perfect lighting. Bring a folding chair for seated photo ops. 3. Raoping Fushan Persimmon Village | Golden Heritage of Sun-Dried Persimmons 🥧 Bamboo trays stacked high in the mountain valley, with persimmons sun-drying to a deep orange hue, coated in a sugary frost. The air is filled with a sweet aroma. Learn the art of flipping persimmons and taste fresh persimmon cakes. 💖 Outfit: Caramel corduroy shirt + dark jeans + straw hat for a vintage vibe that complements the golden drying fields. 💡 Tip: Best time to visit is late October to mid-November. Drive to the location using navigation. Free entry to the drying fields. 4. Meilin Lake | Tranquil Autumn Lakeside 🌿 Crystal-clear waters reflect distant mountains, while the lakeside is adorned with autumn foliage. Take a leisurely stroll or sit quietly to enjoy the view. 💖 Outfit: Light blue shirt/beige wide-leg pants + white sneakers for a simple, fresh look that complements the lake scenery. 💡 Tip: Visit between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM for optimal lighting. Explore various angles along the lakeside trail for great photos. 5. Tangxi Reservoir | A Serene Mountain and Water Retreat 🏞️ Clear lake waters mirror the surrounding forested hills. Stroll along the trails and experience the joy of returning to nature. 💖 Outfit: Light gray hoodie/khaki cargo pants + sneakers for a simple and comfortable style. 💡 Tip: Visit on a sunny day between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Wear non-slip shoes and bring mosquito repellent. 6. Yixi Xidu Village | Golden Waves of Rice Fields 🌾 Expansive rice fields stretch out like a golden ocean. Walk along the ridges as the autumn breeze makes the rice waves ripple, creating a fresh, Japanese-inspired vibe. 💖 Outfit: White T-shirt/light beige long skirt + canvas shoes. Light colors enhance the golden rice field backdrop. 💡 Tip: Visit in early November when the rice is at its golden peak. Arrive around 3:00 PM, wear flat shoes, and avoid stepping on the crops. 7. Daoyun Building | Timeless Octagonal Tulou 🛖 Gray bricks and tiles glisten under the autumn sun. The circular corridors and rooftops showcase ancient architectural elegance. 💖 Outfit: Dark brown trench coat/navy shirt + khaki pants. Earth tones complement the rustic charm of the tulou. 💡 Tip: Visit between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM to photograph the interior structure and panoramic views. Join a guided tour for more insights. 8. Chuangwei Health Theme Park | Snap the "Chaozhou Trio" 🗼 The park's flowers and greenery frame both ancient and modern architecture. Capture the "Chaozhou Trio" in one shot for a ceremonial feel. 💖 Outfit: Off-white knit dress/light brown trench coat + straw bag for a simple, understated look. 💡 Tip: Visit between 4:00-6:00 PM to capture stunning sunset shots. 9. Jiadi Alley | Artistic Vibes in Ancient Lanes 🏯 Embroidery workshops and pottery studios welcome visitors, while old walls covered in climbing vines glow in the autumn light, exuding an artistic charm. 💖 Outfit: Polka dot dress/light brown knit cardigan + beret for a vintage magazine look. 💡 Tip: Book a workshop experience in advance. Capture light and shadow masterpieces at the alley entrance with the old walls as a backdrop.

18 stunning destinations in Guangdong visited in the first half of 2026 — traveler post in Raoping

18 stunning destinations in Guangdong visited in the first half of 2026

⛰️These are the landscapes I visited within Guangdong Province from January to July 2026. I feel that while Guangdong is not lacking in cultural architecture, its natural scenery is not well-known enough. So, I've compiled the beautiful mountains, rivers, lakes, and seas I've traveled to across the province over the past six months to show friends from outside the region what Guangdong has to offer. 📸Photo details: 1️⃣Shenzhen · Enshang Wetland Park 2️⃣Chaozhou · Daoyun Building 3️⃣Meizhou · Guizhu Village 4️⃣Shanwei · Baishuizhai Waterfall 5️⃣Heyuan · Wanlv Lake 6️⃣Heyuan · Guishan Stone Building 7️⃣Qingyuan · Meiziping 8️⃣Huizhou · Dananshan 9️⃣Shaoguan · Luokeng Grassland 🔟Shaoguan · Luokeng Great Cave 1️⃣1️⃣Shaoguan · Jinjiyan 1️⃣2️⃣Shantou · Biaojiao Lighthouse 1️⃣3️⃣Jieyang · Yiyutou 1️⃣4️⃣Meizhou · Shuikoushan Luoshuizhai 1️⃣5️⃣Jieyang · Huangqishan Forest Park 1️⃣6️⃣Qingyuan · Nanxia 1️⃣7️⃣Zhaoqing · Simenyan 1️⃣8️⃣Foshan · Changqi Ancient Village 💡See if I've visited your hometown

Rao ping hiking must-visit — traveler post in Raoping

Rao ping hiking must-visit

In Raoping, encounter the real-life Wizard of Oz with the 300-year-old Wenming Tower | Wenming Tower one-day tour guide Hidden among the dense forests and mountains of eastern Guangdong, wrapped in layers of grass, trees, and bamboo, a Qing dynasty ancient tower stands quietly atop Tashan Mountain. Stepping here feels like entering the real-life Wizard of Oz. Away from noisy tourists, the forest is lush and green, the ancient tower’s blue bricks weathered, and the mountain breeze accompanies the old tower’s shadow. This off-the-beaten-path spot is healing and perfect for light hiking and exploring history. 📍Basic travel information · Address: Wenming Tower, Sanrao Town, Raoping, Chaozhou (top of Tashan Mountain) · Admission: free, no ticket required · Duration: Wenming Tower 1–1.5 hours, full day tour about 6 hours · Best time: spring and summer after rain, when the greenery is most vibrant; morning light is soft, avoid midday sun · Fun fact: Wenming Tower was built in the 37th year of Kangxi in the Qing dynasty (1698). It is a seven-story, octagonal blue brick tower over 300 years old and a Raoping county-level cultural heritage site. 🚗 Transportation guide 1. Self-driving (recommended) Navigate to "Shuangliu Ancient Temple." Park at the temple’s archway parking lot. You cannot drive directly up the mountain. Walk up the stone steps for about 15–20 minutes to reach the ancient tower at the summit. The mountain path is gentle and easy to walk. From Shantou, it takes 1.5 hours; from Chaozhou, 1 hour. 2. Public transportation First go to Raoping Huanggang, then take a shuttle bus to Sanrao Town. After getting off, take a taxi to the foot of Shuangliu Ancient Temple. 🗺 Complete one-day itinerary 9:30 AM | Start hiking up the mountain, enter the green secret realm Park your car and climb Tashan Mountain along the forest stone steps. The entire trail is surrounded by trees and bamboo, with dense shade and flourishing plants. The cicadas sing continuously, just like the real-life Wizard of Oz. Breathe deeply as you hike. The stone steps are not steep, and you can enjoy the sound of the forest breeze along the way. At the summit, Wenming Tower suddenly appears. The seven-story blue brick ancient tower stands on the mountain peak, its body covered with weathering marks. The plaque above the door reads "Wenming Tower," and the couplets on the tower pillars are well preserved. The tower is surrounded by forest and grass, creating a perfect photo atmosphere. ✅ Climb around the tower to admire the hollow blue brick structure. Read the stone couplets on the tower door and appreciate the ancient wish for cultural prosperity. Stand on the top of Tashan Mountain to overlook the entire Sanrao ancient town, countryside, and mountain scenery. Tip: The tower interior is generally closed to the public. Enjoy viewing and photographing from outside. Please protect the cultural relic and do not carve or graffiti. 11. 30 AM | Leisurely stroll at Shuangliu Ancient Temple Walk down the mountain and visit Shuangliu Ancient Temple at the foot. The temple is quiet and simple, with ancient trees in the courtyard. Few people visit, making it peaceful for a casual walk and prayer. 12. 00 PM | Lunch with local Sanrao flavors Eat authentic Chaoshan farmhouse dishes in Sanrao town center. Must-try: Sanrao dumplings, Fushan persimmon cakes, pig’s feet rice, bamboo shoot cake, and rat shell cake. Expect to spend 30–40 yuan per person for genuine eastern Guangdong flavors. 1:30 PM | Daoyun Building, visit the giant octagonal Hakka tulou (a must-see on the way) A 10-minute drive from Wenming Tower, this is the largest octagonal Hakka tulou in Guangdong, over 400 years old. It features rammed earth walls and an octagonal layout. Inside, old residences are preserved with ancient wood carvings, offering an immersive experience of Hakka traditional architecture. • Admission: 50 yuan on-site, discounted tickets available online. Plan for 2 hours. 4:00 PM | Leisurely countryside walk before heading back Stroll along nearby rural paths, see fields and old houses in clusters, and enjoy the eastern Guangdong countryside scenery. Around 4:30 PM, head back at a relaxed pace. 📸 Photo spots 1. Shoot the ancient tower from below on the mountain trail, framed by green trees, creating a Wizard of Oz scene 2. Wide shot from the top of Tashan Mountain, combining the ancient tower with vast fields and mountains 3. Close-up of the stone couplets on the tower door, capturing the vintage cultural atmosphere 4. Courtyard of Daoyun Building tulou, perfect for ancient-style portraits ⚠ Tips for visiting 1. The mountain trail is shaded, but mosquitoes are very common in summer. Be sure to bring mosquito repellent and wear non-slip sports shoes. Avoid sandals. 2. UV rays are strong in the mountains. Bring a hat and sunscreen. There are no shops on the mountain, so bring your own drinking water. 3. The ancient tower is a cultural relic. Climbing or graffiti on the tower is prohibited. 4. Weekends are quiet with few visitors. This is a very off-the-beaten-path spot in Chaoshan, ideal for those who enjoy history and light hiking. 5. The mountain path can be slippery after rain. Watch your step. ✨ Social media caption In Raoping, encounter the real-life Wizard of Oz. The 300-year-old Wenming Tower hides deep in bamboo forests. Ancient bricks listen to the mountain breeze, overlooking the eastern Guangdong countryside and farmland in one glance.

The stunning forest restaurant in Chaozhou offers delicious modern Chinese-style five-element health-preserving meals! 🪾 — traveler post in Raoping

The stunning forest restaurant in Chaozhou offers delicious modern Chinese-style five-element health-preserving meals! 🪾

The forest-themed restaurant in Da Du Lin Mountain Villa is absolutely stunning! 🌱 Surrounded by lush greenery! We were lucky enough to visit when the rain had just stopped, and the air was so fresh we couldn't help but take deep breaths. 🌿 This time, we booked their "Five Elements Nourishing Meal," which is divided into five parts: "Heart, Liver, Lung, Kidney, and Spleen." I chose the Kidney and Spleen. The colors were black and yellow!! It's a beautiful Chinese omakase. The dishes are served course by course, and the order is also significant! From snacks, appetizers, soups, hot dishes, main courses to desserts, every dish was exquisite and delicious!! I'd been here before, and this time I noticed the portions had been adjusted. My table was noticeably full after the meal. We also opted for the hotel's capsule hotel room this time. The large windows were absolutely gorgeous! You can see the greenery outside from inside! At night, you can lie down by the skylight and watch the moon and stars. There's a bathtub outside for taking photos. There are so many photo spots around the hotel! What surprised me most this time was the camping area!! Because staying in April includes a complimentary tranquil tea set! Taking photos and drinking tea here is so beautiful and relaxing! In conclusion, we'll definitely come back 5, 6, 7, 8 times…

Check in to the small island treasure of Chaozhou. — traveler post in Raoping

Check in to the small island treasure of Chaozhou.

🏝️ Xunzhou Island, a treasure island that most people in Raoping, Chaozhou don't know about. The Lisheng Scenic Area has been developed on the island. It's really beautiful to bring your kids here. Whether you like the sea or the forest, you can't miss this island!! ✅ Island access strategy 🧭 Navigate to "Oubian Wharf", arrive at the wharf, 🅿️ Parking is 10 yuan, 20 yuan on holidays, then take a ferry, 5 yuan per person, adults and children are the same price. 🚢 Take a boat to Xunzhou Island You can buy a package ticket for Lisheng Scenic Area, the ticket is 38 yuan for adults and 19 yuan for children, including the sightseeing bus to the scenic area (one way). If you are physically fit, you can choose to walk back to the wharf after leaving the scenic area. Take a sightseeing bus, 5 yuan/person. ✅ About the scenic area 🏝️ Lisheng Scenic Area is still under development, but the scenery is already very beautiful. There are beautiful beaches, a long coastline, a free non-powered amusement park, a trendy street, a large tent camp, an art museum (under construction), 🌟 Internet celebrity check-in point, small train (5 yuan/person), etc. The scenic area is very clean, 🌟 The exterior wall of the art museum is built with oyster shells, which is very distinctive. 🕒 Opening hours 10:00-18:30, it is recommended to arrive at the scenic area after 3 pm on hot days, and you can come anytime if you are not afraid of the heat.

Chaozhou! Avoid the crowds and enjoy your vacation! This niche island is really worth it!! — traveler post in Raoping

Chaozhou! Avoid the crowds and enjoy your vacation! This niche island is really worth it!!

· 🏝 | Xunzhou Island Scenic Area 📍 | Huanggang Town, Raoping County, Chaozhou City, Guangdong Province · 🏝 | Environment ▪ Xunzhou Island is located at the estuary of the Ehuanggang River ▪ It faces Nan'ao Island across the sea and is the largest island village in Raoping 🏝 ▪ A niche island with beautiful coastlines and mountain forest scenery 🗾 · 🏝 | Activities ▪ Beach bathing 🏖, lawn square 🍢 ▪ San Die Shi, a famous check-in point on the island ▪ Chaozhou Fan Ke, a historical and cultural corridor of Chaoshan ▪ Chao Ren Zhi Fan, a landmark building on Xunzhou Island ▪ Sea fish rafts, one of the new eight scenic spots in Chaozhou, known as "Wood Stone Forest Fishing Fire" · 🏝 | Dining ▪ There are many restaurants on the island offering a variety of cuisines ▪ Also featuring special Chaoshan dishes 🥘, seafood feasts 🦐, etc. ▪ You can also enjoy seaside camping barbecues 🍢, hot pots, which are extremely pleasant · 🏝 | Accommodation ▪ Recommended B&B on the island! 30+ rooms ▪ Well-equipped, relatively good environment on the island ▪ Interiors feature original wood and Bohemian style soft furnishings ▪ The overall environment has a vacation feel~ ▪ Most rooms offer sea views 🖼 · 🏝 | Transportation ▪ Take a car to "Oubian Wharf" and then take a boat to the island ▪ For self-driving, park at the wharf parking lot 🅿 ▪ Boat schedule: 07:00-19:00 ▪ Island sightseeing car schedule: 08:30-18:30 ·

Within 1 hour from Chaoshan! A hidden paradise nestled in the mountains — traveler post in Raoping

Within 1 hour from Chaoshan! A hidden paradise nestled in the mountains

· Located in a large mountain in Raoping There is a secluded and luxurious high-end resort Few people, beautiful scenery, and an extremely comfortable environment! · ✨Highlights ▪ The villa is situated next to Hutou Mountain in Huanggang Town, Raoping County ▪ It is a vacation destination centered on culture and nature, with themes of nourishing life, heart, nature, sight, and beauty - the 'Five Nourishments' ▪ The environment is simple and tranquil, with a landscape of Chinese garden rocks ▪ It's like a 'landscape painting' full of the poetic charm of the south of the Yangtze River · 🛏Rooms 🔘 There are 88 uniquely designed luxury wild rooms 🔘 Over 20 room types to meet different preferences 🔘 Standard rooms, tent rooms, cave rooms, tree houses, space capsules, etc. 🔘 Spacious and bright rooms, fully equipped! 🔘 All with large floor-to-ceiling windows or courtyards, making for a very comfortable vacation~ · 🍛Dining 🔸 The villa has various restaurants, open-air bars, and tea rooms 🔸 Offering authentic Chaoshan cuisine, tea brewing around the stove, barbecue, etc. · 🔍Facilities 🔹 Medicinal bath hot spring pools♨, herbal medicine room🌿 🔹 Fan·SPA💆‍, Zhuo Garden Tea Room🍵, Open-air Tea Bar🍹 🔹 Forest restaurant🍽, infinity pool💦, children's playground🎪 · 🗺Surroundings ✅ Jingguang Temple ✅ Shibi Mountain Scenic Area · 📍Hutou Mountain, Huanggang Town, Raoping County, Chaozhou City, Guangdong Province 🚗 About 1 hour drive from Chaoshan 🚝 Raoping Station: About 18 minutes drive away ·

Foodie Tour of Guangdong: Volume 4 | Following "Love Letter to Grandma" — traveler post in Raoping

Foodie Tour of Guangdong: Volume 4 | Following "Love Letter to Grandma"

Eat in Guangdong, taste the world. In the first three volumes, we explored the refined Cantonese flavors of the Greater Bay Area, the Lingnan cultural trail connecting arcade buildings and watchtowers, and the trendy, fun-filled journey through theme parks and pop-culture landmarks. This time, we are following a movie. Follow the movie "Love Letter to Grandma" for a stroll through the old days of arcade buildings and Qiaopi (overseas remittance letters)—this route connects Shantou Jinping, Jieyang Puning, and Shanwei Lufeng, blending the historical charm of hometowns of overseas Chinese with the vibrant local life of Chaoshan, weaving together ancient townscapes and cinematic memories. Route 4: A Cinematic Journey Through Overseas Chinese Hometowns Route: Shantou Jinping – Jieyang Puning – Shanwei Lufeng Stop 1: Shantou Jinping Follow the movie to stroll through the old days of arcade buildings and Qiaopi. Visit the Xiaogongyuan (Small Park) Port Opening Area and Zhenbang Road Food Street in Shantou Jinping, and feast on beef balls, Laomagong rice dumplings, and Aixi dry noodles. Shantou Jinping is the starting point of this route and a filming location for the "old days" scenes in the movie. The Xiaogongyuan Port Opening Area centers on the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Pavilion, with old arcade streets radiating outward. This district preserves the largest cluster of modern arcade buildings in China, most of which were built by overseas Chinese who returned home after working in Southeast Asia. When the lights come on at dusk, the gilded outline of the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Pavilion and the red lanterns of the arcades illuminate, bringing out the nostalgic texture seen in the movie. Zhenbang Road Food Street is right in this area. The beef balls are bouncy and juicy, the Laomagong rice dumplings offer a mix of sweet and savory, and the Aixi dry noodles are tossed with sesame paste and braised sauce—a bowl of this is the definition of a comforting daily meal for locals in Shantou. After exploring the arcades, you can stop by the Shantou Port Opening Culture Exhibition Hall and the Qiaopi Cultural Museum to see the original family letters that traveled across the ocean. Looking back at the arcades of Xiaogongyuan, the plot of the movie will feel even more tangible. Stop 2: Jieyang Puning Stop by De'anli and Hongyang Old Street in Jieyang Puning to watch the Yingge dance, and taste Puning fried tofu, Hongyang Guozhi (rice noodle soup), and glutinous rice stuffed in pig intestines. Puning is the stop with the strongest ancient town atmosphere on this route. The De'anli Ancient Village was the residential settlement of the family of Fang Yao, a Guangdong naval admiral during the Qing Dynasty. Composed of the "Hundred Birds Facing the Phoenix" and "Four-Horse Carriage" layouts, it is a rare, large-scale mansion-style architectural complex in the Chaoshan region. Walking through it feels like entering an open-air museum of Chaoshan architecture. Hongyang Old Street is the oldest commercial street in Puning, where the most authentic Puning flavors are hidden beneath the Republic of China-era arcades. Puning fried tofu has a golden, crispy skin and is tender and hot inside; dip it in a dish of chive-infused salt water. Hongyang Guozhi features smooth, chewy rice noodles in a rich, fragrant broth. Glutinous rice stuffed in pig intestines is made by stuffing glutinous rice, peanuts, and shiitake mushrooms into pig intestines, steaming them, and then slicing and pan-frying them until crispy on the outside and sticky on the inside. If you happen to visit during a festival, there are often Yingge dance performances in the Hongyang Old Street or Nanxi Water Town areas; once the drums start, the atmosphere of the entire street changes. After eating, you can take a small boat in Nanxi Water Town, where the banyan-shaded waterways and reflections of old houses reveal another side of Puning. Stop 3: Shanwei Lufeng Continue to Xuanwu Mountain and Jinxiang Silver Beach in Shanwei Lufeng, and eat Jiazi fish balls and vegetable tea. Lufeng is the finale of this route, shifting from the bustle of the old city to the mountains and sea. The Xuanwu Mountain Tourist Area is located in Jieshi Town, with the Yuan Mountain Temple at its core. Built in the Southern Song Dynasty, it is one of the largest and best-preserved religious temples in eastern Guangdong. The temple is densely packed with wood carvings, stone carvings, and porcelain inlay craftsmanship. Climbing the Fuxing Pagoda offers a view of the sea at Jieshi Bay. Heading south from Xuanwu Mountain brings you to Jinxiang Silver Beach, with its long, fine white sandy beach. Along the coast, there is a monument marking the spot where Zhou Enlai crossed the sea, along with red-themed murals, layering natural scenery with historical memories. Lufeng's food relies on the sea. Jiazi fish balls are the signature of Jiazi Town; the fish paste is shaped into balls, which are bouncy and sweet whether served in soup or with noodles. Vegetable tea mixes various vegetables, vermicelli, dried shrimp, and peanuts in a bowl, topped with bone broth and a sprinkle of fried rice, making it refreshing and filling. Sitting in the sea breeze of Jinxiang with a bowl of vegetable tea, this route—from the arcades to the coast—is complete. From the old arcade days of Shantou's Xiaogongyuan to the ancient townscape of Puning's De'anli, and finally to the mountains and sea of Lufeng's Xuanwu Mountain and Jinxiang Silver Beach, this route strings together the cinematic light and shadow, the history of overseas Chinese hometowns, and the vibrant local life of Chaoshan. The historical charm of the hometowns blends with the local life of Chaoshan, weaving together ancient townscapes and cinematic memories. In the next volume, we will take Route 5—A Journey of Seafood Delicacies in Eastern Guangdong, starting from Sanbaimen Fishing Port in Raoping, Chaozhou, passing through Nan'ao in Shantou and Huilai in Jieyang, all the way to the Er'ma Road Food Street in the urban area of Shanwei. If you have any hidden gems along the way, feel free to share them in the comments section.

Hidden gem one-day trip around Shantou | Xiao'ao Island + Zhao'an Ancient Town, incredible for photos! — traveler post in Raoping

Hidden gem one-day trip around Shantou | Xiao'ao Island + Zhao'an Ancient Town, incredible for photos!

Only 50 mins from Shantou! Found a super niche one-day itinerary✨ Looking for weekend plans? Check this out! This itinerary is uncrowded, scenic, and perfect for photos📸 🌊Stop 1: Xiao'ao Island 📍Departing from Shantou🚗 50-min drive 🅿️Navigate to: Wenshengwei South Embankment Smart Parking Lot, Zhelin Town 💰Ferry: CNY 3/person one-way—what a steal! After arriving on the island, there are shuttle buses to the beach, CNY 5/person one-way The sea is so blue! 🌊 There's basically no one on the beach! Every photo looks like a professional shot; it feels like an island vacation abroad🏝️ Enjoying the sea breeze and the sound of the waves—it's just pure bliss🥹 🏮Stop 2: Zhao'an Zhongshan Road Depart from Xiao'ao Island in the evening, it's a 30-min drive~ 🅿️There are smart parking spaces on the roadside, very convenient! As night falls, the lanterns in the ancient town light up, creating such a great vibe🏮 Stroll on the stone roads and feel the slow life of the small town Every photo looks like a traditional-style masterpiece; my social media feed was flooded with questions🔥 💡Tips: Recommend going to Xiao'ao Island in the afternoon, then Zhao'an in the evening You can see the daytime sea view and the nighttime ancient town all at once🏮 Really perfect for escaping the city on the weekend for a spontaneous little trip~ Save this, and take your besties to check it out!✨

Chaozhou's hidden gem! The hundred-million-year-old Strange Mortar Valley holds nature's ultimate romance. — traveler post in Raoping

Chaozhou's hidden gem! The hundred-million-year-old Strange Mortar Valley holds nature's ultimate romance.

When traveling to Chaozhou, don't just crowd into the ancient city! I've discovered a hidden treasure tucked away in the mountains of Chaoshan—Qinglan Strange Mortar Valley National Geopark. As one of the "New Eight Sights of Chaozhou," it completely changed my perception of the landscapes in eastern Guangdong. Without the hustle and bustle of over-commercialization, it's filled with pristine mountain greenery and unique geological formations carved over hundreds of millions of years. Every turn brings a pleasant surprise, making it perfect for couples, friends, or family trips with kids. The moment you step into the valley, you're enveloped in coolness, instantly leaving behind the sweltering heat and restlessness of the city. It's a natural, oxygen-rich summer retreat! The entire canyon hides over 3,000 glacial mortar wonders of various shapes, precious geological relics left over from the Quaternary glacial period. Millions of years of flowing water have scoured the rocks, creating unique natural textures. These smooth, peculiar stone mortars are scattered among the streams and rocks, varying in depth and shape. Each one is a masterpiece of nature's craftsmanship, and the awe you feel seeing it in person is something a camera simply cannot capture. You must take your time exploring the park's star attractions! The park's crown jewel, the Nine-Spiral Mortar, is stunning. This eight-meter-deep stone mortar features layers of spiral patterns, resembling a giant, naturally carved conch shell. The intricate details are exquisite, making one marvel at the wonders of geological movement. Nearby, the plump and round "Fairy Peach Mortar" looks incredibly lifelike and carries auspicious meanings. Many visitors stop here to take photos and soak up the good fortune of the mountains. Along the way, there are other niche sights like the Nine-Layer Strange Mortar and the Wind-Moved Rock, ensuring every step offers a new, captivating view. After exploring the strange rocks in the valley, you must venture into the stunning and lesser-known Dihe Cave! This is a rare geode granite karst cave in the Chaoshan region, completely different from ordinary stalactite caves. Inside, it hides a unique landscape where mortars and water coexist. Clear springs flow through rock crevices, and soft lighting filters through, creating a dappled play of light and shadow that sets a perfect mood. The cave maintains a constant, cool temperature. As you weave through the strange rocks and flowing water, every turn reveals a new scene—quiet, healing, and feeling like you've stumbled into a secret underground wonderland. The entire tour route is easy and won't tire your legs. Most of the path is flat, and the stairs are gentle and easy to walk, making it accessible for seniors and children to complete the whole route without the exhaustion of typical mountain climbing. Along the way, you'll find babbling streams, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests, with the air filled with the fresh scent of plants. This is also a popular filming location for movies, so you'll see familiar scenes everywhere. Walk, explore, and take photos as you immerse yourself in the collision of mountain scenery and cinematic atmosphere. I truly believe this is a niche attraction in eastern Guangdong that is well worth exploring! Not only can you immerse yourself in hundred-million-year-old geological wonders, but you can also get close to nature, breathe in fresh air, and escape the heat, making for a rich and healing experience. The park has complete facilities, including a geological museum you can visit. It's perfect for both relaxation and learning geological science, balancing fun with education. If you're coming to Chaozhou and want to avoid the crowds, unlocking the pristine beauty of this hundred-million-year-old valley is an absolutely fantastic, fail-safe choice!

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Qinglan Guaijiu Valley National Geopark

There are two main reasons why you'll enjoy the visit: First, you'll be immersed in the wonders of nature, with strange rock formations, underground rivers and caves, and geological forests all blending together to create a stunning and unique landscape that's definitely worth a visit. Second, it's great for children and perfect for family educational trips. Taking kids to the Qinglan Geological Museum and exploring the geological sites firsthand allows them to connect with nature and learn about geology—a fun and educational experience that combines learning with play.

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Daoyun Lou

Among the more than 600 earth buildings in Raoping County, Guangdong, there is one that is uniquely ancient, large, strange and beautiful. It is China's largest castle-style octagonal earth building and a national cultural relic protection unit - Daoyun Building! It was built in the late Ming and early Qing dynasties and has a history of more than 400 years. Daoyun Building is currently under renovation and is expected to be open in a year! Worth looking forward to [strong]

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Nan'ao Island

We didn't catch any squid, but the owner helped us by casting a net every half hour, bringing up quite a few. We had a barbecue on the boat, which was a nice way to relax and have some fun in the evening. Even though we didn't catch any fish, we still had a barbecue and seafood porridge dinner.

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Minyue First City Scenic Spot

The park is very large and you can spend a whole day there, but the ticket price is a bit awkward. The package is more affordable, but it is generally difficult to know what you want after entering the park if you have never been there, so it is difficult to choose a package, but it is not worth buying a single ticket after entering. Apart from this, the park is well maintained and worth visiting. The cross-provincial check-in points are very unique.

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Xunzhou Island

Xunzhou Island is another quiet little island besides Nan'ao Island. It is a niche tourist attraction. It is very quiet, with few people and the indigenous people are also very simple. It is a good choice to come here to relieve stress.

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Ancient City of Chaozhou

I came here because of its reputation, and visited Chaozhou Ancient City, Guangji Bridge, Guangji Tower, and Kaiyuan Temple to learn about Chaoshan culture and taste local delicacies. In March, the spring sunshine was just right, the weather was pleasant, and I felt very comfortable.

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Former Residence of Chen Cihong

While traveling in Chaoshan, I discovered this hidden gem. It's clear the residents were from a prominent family; the houses are enormous, and I heard that it used to take a whole day just to open and close the windows. It's full of Southeast Asian charm and incredibly photogenic. Online ticketing is very convenient; highly recommended.

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Guangji Bridge

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Five stars! A must-see in Chaozhou is Guangji Bridge, and it truly lives up to its reputation! As one of China's four ancient bridges and the world's earliest movable bridge, walking on it truly allows you to appreciate the remarkable wisdom of the ancients. "Eighteen shuttle boats and twenty-four islands"—one side features stone piers and pavilions, while the middle section is a pontoon bridge made of shuttle boats. Walking on the pontoon bridge, gently swaying, with the river breeze from the Han River blowing in your face, is incredibly comfortable. Rows of antique pavilions are scattered about, their couplets and plaques full of charm, and the ancient stone slabs underfoot bear the marks of time. During the day, strolling on the bridge allows you to quietly admire both banks of the Han River, with the ancient city of Chaozhou on one side, full of vibrant life. If you have enough time, you can also watch the pontoon bridge being dismantled in the evening, a famous spectacle known as "crossing the river and dismantling the bridge." At night, when the lights come on, the entire bridge is reflected in the river, creating a breathtaking night view. When you come to Chaozhou, you really can't miss Guangji Bridge. Take a walk on the bridge, feel the river breeze, and experience the cultural heritage of this ancient city. It's definitely worth it!

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Xi'ao Island

🌟 Chaoshan's hidden paradise! Raoping Xi'ao Island 2 days and 1 night full guide | Egret Paradise + Seafood Freedom + Seafood Hunting Secrets🌟 📍 Geographical location and climate Xi'ao Island is located in the southwest of Zhelin Town, Raoping County, Chaozhou City, Guangdong Province, across the sea from Shantou Nan'ao Island.

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Memorial Temple of Han Yu

After visiting the Thai Buddhist Hall at Kaiyuan Temple, a taxi ride cost just over three yuan took me directly to Han Yu's Ancestral Hall. Walking there would have been 1.8km, which would have been quite tiring. Taxis are relatively cheap in Chaozhou. This place mainly introduces the life of Han Yu from the Tang Dynasty, his contributions during his exile to Chaozhou, and praises his patriotism and dedication to the people. It's worth taking a short stroll, as the reservation ticket is free, essentially like visiting a small park. The ticket entrance for Guangji Bridge is just over 100 meters away. After visiting Guangji Bridge, you can go directly there to experience the culture and charm of a pontoon bridge before returning to the ancient city, avoiding backtracking.

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Raoping FAQ

How many days should I spend in Raoping?

Based on Trip.com user data, Recommended sightseeing time: 1–3 day(s), allowing you to cover the main attractions while enjoying shopping, dining, and other experiences.

What currency is used in Raoping?

The standard currency in Raoping is CNY

How do I exchange currency in Raoping?

Current exchange rate approx.: INR ≈0.07CNY (actual exchange rates depend on the bank). Currency exchange tips:
1. Exchange currency at your local bank before departure, as rates are usually better than at the destination.
2. You can also withdraw cash from local ATMs.
3. Avoid exchanging currency at airports or hotels, as they offer the worst rates.

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