Shantou Travel Guide 2026: My 3-Day Food Trip, Historic Streets & Nan'ao Island Experience

Why I Recommend Visiting Shantou

Before visiting Shantou, I only knew it as the hometown of Chaoshan cuisine.

But after spending three days exploring this coastal city in eastern Guangdong, I discovered that Shantou offers much more than amazing food.

Shantou is a unique destination combining:

• Historic overseas Chinese culture

• Traditional Chaoshan architecture

• Beautiful coastline and islands

• Authentic local cuisine

• A relaxed seaside lifestyle

Unlike Guangzhou or Shenzhen, Shantou does not feel like a fast modern city.

The city has preserved many traces of its past as an important trading port, especially the old arcade streets, historical buildings, and traditional neighborhoods.

During my trip, I spent mornings exploring old streets, afternoons visiting seaside attractions, and evenings searching for local Chaoshan food.

If you enjoy cultural travel, photography, seafood, and authentic local experiences, Shantou is definitely worth adding to your Guangdong itinerary.

Best Time to Visit Shantou

Shantou has a warm coastal climate, making it suitable for travel throughout the year.

Spring (March-May)

The weather is comfortable and perfect for walking around the old town and visiting Nan'ao Island.

Summer (June-August)

This is the best season for beaches and island activities, although the weather can be hot.

Autumn (September-November)

The temperature becomes more pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and food exploration.

Winter (December-February)

The climate is mild compared with northern China, making it a good choice for escaping cold weather.

My Favorite Historic Attractions in Shantou

1. Shantou Small Park (汕头小公园) – The Heart of Old Shantou

My first stop in Shantou was Small Park, the historic center of the city.

This area preserves the atmosphere of Shantou during the 1930s when it was an important trading port.

Walking through the streets, I was impressed by the traditional arcade buildings known as "Qilou".

These buildings combine Chinese and Western architectural styles and reflect Shantou's history as a port city connected with overseas trade.

The area is perfect for:

• Street photography

• Learning local history

• Trying traditional Chaoshan snacks

While walking around Small Park, I stopped to try famous local foods such as Small Park egg tarts and Aixi dry noodles.

My Visiting Experience

I arrived at Shantou Small Park around 10:00 AM.

The morning light was perfect for photography, and there were fewer tourists compared with the afternoon.

My recommended visiting time:

• Best time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

• Suggested duration: 2-3 hours

• Best for: History, architecture, photography

2. Shantou Opening Port Culture Exhibition Hall (汕头开埠文化陈列馆)

After exploring Small Park, I continued to the Shantou Opening Port Culture Exhibition Hall.

This beautiful European-style building tells the story of how Shantou developed after becoming an important trading port.

Inside the exhibition hall, I learned about:

• Shantou's port history

• Overseas trade development

• Cultural exchanges between China and other countries

For me, this was one of the best places to understand why Shantou has such a unique cultural identity.

My Visiting Tips

I visited around noon after walking through Small Park.

The indoor exhibition was also a comfortable place to rest during hot weather.

Information:

• Suggested duration: 1 hour

• Best for: History lovers and cultural travelers

3. Chaoshan Overseas Chinese History Museum (潮汕华侨历史博物馆)

One thing that surprised me about Shantou was the strong connection between the city and overseas Chinese communities.

The Chaoshan Overseas Chinese History Museum shows how generations of people from this region traveled overseas and contributed to global cultural connections.

The museum building itself is impressive, facing the sea with a grand architectural design.

Inside, visitors can explore:

• Overseas Chinese history

• Art exhibitions

• Intangible cultural heritage displays

For travelers interested in Chinese migration history, this is a meaningful stop.

My Favorite Natural Attractions in Shantou

After exploring the historic side of Shantou, I wanted to experience another side of the city — its coastline and islands.

Because Shantou is located near the South China Sea, it offers beautiful beaches, coastal parks, mountains, and island scenery.

1. Nan'ao Island (南澳岛) – The Best Coastal Escape from Shantou

If you only have time to visit one natural attraction in Shantou, I highly recommend Nan'ao Island.

Nan'ao Island is the only island county in Guangdong Province and was the highlight of my Shantou trip.

Unlike crowded beach destinations, Nan'ao Island still keeps a relaxed fishing village atmosphere.

During my visit, I enjoyed:

• Beautiful coastline views

• Fresh seafood

• Small fishing villages

• Mountain and ocean landscapes

• Romantic sunset views

The island is also home to many natural and historical attractions, including:

• Huanghua Mountain National Forest Park

• Natural Gate of Tropic of Cancer

• Songjing Ancient Well

• General Mansion

• Qing'ao Bay

What impressed me most was the combination of history and nature.

One moment I was standing beside ancient historical sites, and the next moment I was enjoying the sea breeze on a quiet beach.

My Nan'ao Island One-Day Experience

08:00 AM

I left downtown Shantou and headed toward Nan'ao Island.

The journey itself was already beautiful because crossing Nan'ao Bridge offers amazing sea views.

09:30 AM

I arrived on the island and first visited the Natural Gate of Tropic of Cancer.

This landmark is one of the most popular photo spots on the island.

11:00 AM

I continued to Huanghua Mountain National Forest Park.

The mountain offers fresh air, green forests, and beautiful viewpoints overlooking the sea.

12:30 PM

I stopped for a seafood lunch near the coast.

Nan'ao Island is famous for fresh seafood, and I recommend trying:

• Fresh seafood porridge

• Steamed fish

• Local shellfish

• Seaweed dishes

02:00 PM

In the afternoon, I visited Songjing Ancient Well and General Mansion to learn more about the island's history.

04:00 PM

I arrived at Qing'ao Bay.

Walking along the beach and watching the sunset was one of my favorite moments in Shantou.

Nan'ao Island Travel Tips

• Best season: March-May and September-November

• Recommended stay: 1-2 days

• Best transportation: Self-driving or taxi

• Best sunset location: Qing'ao Bay

2. Queshi Scenic Area (礐石风景区) – Mountain Views and Sea Scenery

Another place I enjoyed in Shantou was Queshi Scenic Area.

Located across the bay from downtown Shantou, this area combines mountains, strange rocks, forests, and ocean views.

It is one of the most famous scenic spots in Shantou and is known as one of the city's eight major attractions.

When I arrived here, the first thing I noticed was the peaceful natural environment.

Compared with the busy city center, Queshi Scenic Area feels much more relaxing.

The highlights include:

• Mountain hiking trails

• Sea viewpoints

• Unique rock formations

• Waterfalls and springs

The area also contains several historical buildings, including:

• Former British Consulate site

• Christian church buildings

• Traditional temples

For travelers who enjoy combining nature and history, this is a great half-day trip.

My Visiting Experience

I arrived around 9:00 AM.

The weather was cooler, making hiking much more comfortable.

After walking through the scenic area, I reached higher viewpoints where I could see the coastline and Shantou city skyline.

Recommended duration:

• 3-4 hours

• Best time: Morning or late afternoon

• Suitable for: Nature lovers, photographers

3. East Coast Park (东海岸公园) – The Best Place to Watch Sunset

After visiting historical sites and mountains, I spent an evening at East Coast Park.

This 13-kilometer coastal area is one of the best places in Shantou to relax by the sea.

The atmosphere here is very different from tourist attractions.

Local residents come here to:

• Walk along the coastline

• Ride bicycles

• Fly kites

• Have picnics

• Watch sunset

I arrived about one hour before sunset.

The golden sunlight reflected on the sea, creating one of the most beautiful views I saw during my trip.

At night, you can also visit nearby night markets and enjoy local snacks.

4. Xidi Park (西堤公园) – A Beautiful Sunset Waterfront Walk

Xidi Park was one of my favorite relaxing places in Shantou.

The park is built around the theme of overseas Chinese letters and remittance culture, known locally as "Qiaopi".

This place tells the story of generations of Chaoshan people who traveled overseas and maintained connections with their hometown.

The highlights include:

• Waterfront wooden walkway

• Ocean viewing platforms

• Qiaopi cultural displays

• Sunset scenery

My Tip

I recommend visiting Xidi Park around 5:00 PM.

You can enjoy the sea breeze, walk along the wooden path, and stay until sunset.

5. Mayu Island (妈屿岛) – A Small Island with Unique Charm

Mayu Island is a small island located at the entrance of Shantou's inner bay.

Compared with Nan'ao Island, Mayu Island is smaller and easier to explore in a few hours.

The island combines:

• Fishing village life

• Historical buildings

• Coastal scenery

• European-style architecture

During my visit, I enjoyed walking around the island slowly and experiencing a quieter side of Shantou.

Main attractions include:

• Old Mazu Temple

• Chaoshan Customs buildings

• Fishing village streets

It is a good choice for travelers who want a less crowded place for photography.

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My Shantou Food Guide: The Best Chaoshan Cuisine I Tried

For me, the biggest surprise of visiting Shantou was not only the scenery, but the food.

Shantou is one of the most famous food destinations in China and is an important birthplace of Chaoshan cuisine.

Unlike Sichuan cuisine, which focuses on spicy flavors, or Cantonese cuisine, which often uses delicate sauces, Chaoshan cuisine emphasizes:

• Fresh ingredients

• Original flavors

• Traditional cooking techniques

• Simple but high-quality preparation

During my three-day trip, I spent a lot of time exploring local restaurants, street food stalls, and traditional snack shops.

Here are the foods I think every traveler should try in Shantou.

1. Shantou Beef Hotpot (汕头牛肉火锅) – The Must-Try Local Experience

If you visit Shantou for the first time, beef hotpot should be at the top of your food list.

Unlike many hotpot styles in China that use strong spicy broths, Chaoshan beef hotpot focuses on the natural flavor of fresh beef.

The beef is usually cut and prepared on the same day, and different parts of the cow have different textures and flavors.

During my first beef hotpot dinner in Shantou, I was surprised by how simple yet delicious it was.

The clear broth allows the sweetness of the beef to stand out.

My favorite cuts were:

• Snowflake beef – tender and rich

• Beef tendon – chewy and flavorful

• Beef balls – handmade and springy

• Beef slices – fresh and naturally sweet

The traditional way to eat it is with Chaoshan-style satay sauce.

The combination of fresh beef and slightly sweet peanut-based sauce creates a unique flavor.

My Recommended Experience

I suggest going for dinner around 6:00 PM.

Popular beef hotpot restaurants can become crowded after 7:00 PM, especially on weekends.

My tips:

• Arrive early to avoid waiting

• Order several different beef cuts instead of only one

• Try handmade beef balls

• Eat slowly and enjoy the freshness

Recommended restaurant:

Xinghua Wuji Beef Hotpot (杏花吴记牛肉火锅)

This restaurant is famous among visitors for fresh beef and traditional Chaoshan hotpot flavors.

2. Chaoshan Braised Goose (潮汕卤鹅) – A Traditional Local Specialty

Another unforgettable food experience in Shantou was Chaoshan braised goose.

This dish has a long history and represents the traditional cooking style of the Chaoshan region.

The goose is slowly cooked with a special soy-based sauce containing spices and herbs.

The result is:

• Rich aroma

• Tender meat

• Deep traditional flavor

The most famous version uses Chaoshan Lion Head Goose, which has a better texture and stronger flavor.

My Experience

I tried braised goose for lunch during my second day in Shantou.

The meat was tender but not greasy, and the sauce had a strong traditional flavor.

I recommend ordering:

• Goose meat slices

• Goose wings

• Goose intestines

• Braised tofu and eggs

Recommended restaurant:

Su Nanking Braised Goose (苏南勤记卤鹅)

A traditional restaurant known for authentic Chaoshan braised goose.

3. Chaoshan Rice Rolls (潮汕肠粉) – A Local Breakfast Favorite

One morning, I started my day with a plate of Chaoshan rice rolls.

Compared with Cantonese-style rice rolls, Shantou rice rolls usually contain more ingredients.

Inside the thin rice wrapper, you can find:

• Pork

• Seafood

• Egg

• Vegetables

The rice skin is soft and smooth, while the fillings provide different textures.

It is one of the best choices for breakfast in Shantou.

My Morning Routine

I recommend waking up around 8:00 AM and looking for a local breakfast shop.

Many traditional restaurants are busiest between 8:00-10:00 AM, when local residents come for breakfast.

Recommended restaurant:

Xiao Wu Rice Rolls (小吴肠粉)

A popular local choice known for generous fillings and smooth rice sheets.

4. Guozhi (粿汁) – Traditional Chaoshan Comfort Food

Guozhi is one of the most traditional breakfast foods in the Chaoshan region.

The main ingredient is rice cake pieces made from rice flour, served with various toppings.

Typical toppings include:

• Braised pork

• Egg

• Pork intestine

• Braised tofu

The dish is served with rich braising sauce, creating a warm and satisfying flavor.

I personally think Guozhi represents the everyday life of Shantou better than expensive restaurants.

It is simple, affordable, and loved by local residents.

Recommended restaurant:

Lao Zi Niang Guozhi (老姿娘粿汁)

5. Chaoshan Oyster Omelette (蚝烙) – Crispy Seafood Snack

Oyster omelette is another famous Chaoshan snack that I highly recommend.

Fresh oysters are mixed with starch and eggs, then fried until crispy outside and soft inside.

The seafood aroma is strong, and it is usually served with fish sauce.

The best way to enjoy it is while it is still hot.

Recommended restaurant:

Wuming Oyster Omelette (无名蚝烙)

A popular local place to experience traditional Chaoshan flavors.

6. Other Shantou Local Snacks Worth Trying

Besides the famous dishes above, I also recommend trying these smaller local specialties:

Sweet Soup (甜汤)

Traditional Chaoshan desserts made with ingredients such as beans, fruits, and herbal ingredients.

Recommended: Lao Hu Sweet Soup (老胡甜汤)

Horse Hoof Cake (马蹄糕)

A soft and slightly sweet traditional dessert.

Dahao Fish Balls (达濠鱼丸)

Handmade fish balls famous for their springy texture and fresh seafood flavor.

My Food Route Recommendation in Shantou

If you only have three days, this is the food schedule I recommend:

Day 1

Morning:
Chaoshan rice rolls + explore Small Park

Lunch:
Chaoshan braised goose

Dinner:
Shantou beef hotpot

Day 2

Morning:
Breakfast at local Guozhi restaurant

Lunch:
Nan'ao Island seafood

Dinner:
Oyster omelette + local snacks

Day 3

Morning:
Local breakfast experience

Afternoon:
Coffee and desserts around the old town

Evening:
Seafood dinner near the coast

Where I Stayed in Shantou: Best Areas for Travelers

Choosing the right area to stay made my Shantou trip much easier.

Because the attractions are spread across different areas, I recommend choosing your hotel based on your travel style.

1. Jinping District (金平区) – Best Choice for First-Time Visitors

For my first visit to Shantou, I recommend staying near Small Park in Jinping District.

This area is the historical center of the city and the most convenient place for travelers.

The advantages are:

• Walking distance to Small Park

• Close to many traditional restaurants

• Easy access to historical attractions

• Beautiful night views

After dinner, I could easily walk back to my hotel and enjoy the old streets at night.

For travelers who visit Shantou for food and culture, this is my top recommendation.

2. Longhu District (龙湖区) – Modern Area with Shopping and Convenience

If you prefer modern hotels, shopping malls, and a more comfortable city environment, Longhu District is a good choice.

The area around Mixc Mall (万象城) has:

• Modern restaurants

• Shopping centers

• Cafes

• Convenient transportation

This area is suitable for travelers who prefer international-style hotels.

3. Haojiang District (濠江区) – Best for Sea Views

Travelers who love ocean views can consider staying near Nanbin Road.

The area is close to:

• Queshi Scenic Area

• Nanbin Park

• Coastal walking paths

The atmosphere is quieter compared with downtown Shantou.

4. Nan'ao Island (南澳岛) – Best for Beach Holidays

If your main purpose is enjoying beaches and sunrise views, staying overnight on Nan'ao Island is a great choice.

I recommend Qing'ao Bay area because:

• Beautiful sea views

• Easy access to the beach

• Amazing sunrise scenery

Waking up and seeing the ocean directly from my hotel room was one of my favorite memories.

How I Got to Shantou: Transportation Guide

From Guangzhou to Shantou

The easiest way to reach Shantou is by high-speed train.

I took a train from Guangzhou South Railway Station to Shantou Railway Station.

The journey takes about 2-3 hours depending on the train.

After arriving, I used taxi or ride-hailing apps to reach my hotel.

From Shenzhen to Shantou

Travelers from Shenzhen can also easily reach Shantou by high-speed train.

The trip usually takes around 2 hours.

This makes Shantou a great weekend destination from Shenzhen.

Getting Around Shantou

During my trip, I mainly used:

• Taxi / ride-hailing apps

• Local buses

• Walking in old town areas

For Small Park and nearby attractions, walking is the best way to discover hidden streets.

For Nan'ao Island and attractions far from downtown, taxi or renting a car is more convenient.

My Perfect 3-Day Shantou Itinerary

This is the route I recommend for first-time visitors.

Day 1: Discover Old Shantou + Local Food

09:30 AM – Arrive in Shantou

After checking into my hotel near Small Park, I started exploring the old city.

10:30 AM – Small Park (汕头小公园)

I walked through the historic arcade streets, photographed old buildings, and experienced the atmosphere of old Shantou.

12:30 PM – Local Lunch

I tried Chaoshan braised goose and traditional snacks.

02:00 PM – Opening Port Culture Exhibition Hall

I learned about Shantou's history as an important trading port.

05:00 PM – Xidi Park Sunset

I walked along the waterfront and watched the sunset.

07:00 PM – Beef Hotpot Dinner

I ended my first day with authentic Shantou beef hotpot.

Day 2: Nan'ao Island Coastal Adventure

08:00 AM – Leave Downtown Shantou

I headed to Nan'ao Island by car.

09:30 AM – Nan'ao Bridge + Natural Gate

The sea views along the bridge were already worth the trip.

11:00 AM – Huanghua Mountain National Forest Park

I enjoyed the mountain scenery and ocean views.

12:30 PM – Seafood Lunch

I tried fresh seafood dishes near the coast.

02:00 PM – Songjing Ancient Well + General Mansion

I explored the historical side of Nan'ao Island.

04:30 PM – Qing'ao Bay Sunset

Walking on the beach while watching the sunset was the highlight of my island trip.

Day 3: Mountains, Islands and Local Life

09:00 AM – Queshi Scenic Area

I enjoyed hiking, nature views, and coastline scenery.

12:30 PM – Local Lunch

I searched for another traditional Chaoshan restaurant.

02:00 PM – Mayu Island

I explored this small island and experienced a slower local lifestyle.

05:00 PM – East Coast Park

I finished my Shantou journey by watching the sunset beside the sea.

My Shantou Travel Tips and Things to Know

1. Take Your Time Exploring

Shantou is not a city for rushing.

The best experience comes from slowly walking through old streets, chatting with locals, and trying small restaurants.

2. Prepare Your Food Schedule

Many famous local restaurants become busy during meal times.

For popular beef hotpot restaurants, arriving early can save waiting time.

3. Visit Nan'ao Island on Good Weather Days

The island scenery depends greatly on weather conditions.

Sunny days offer the best sea views and photography opportunities.

4. Learn Basic Chaoshan Food Names

Knowing a few local dishes makes ordering much easier:

• 牛肉火锅 – Beef Hotpot

• 卤鹅 – Braised Goose

• 肠粉 – Rice Rolls

• 粿汁 – Guozhi

• 蚝烙 – Oyster Omelette

5. Best Travel Style

In my opinion, Shantou is perfect for:

• Food lovers

• Culture travelers

• Photography enthusiasts

• Weekend travelers from Guangzhou or Shenzhen

Final Thoughts: Is Shantou Worth Visiting?

After spending three days in Shantou, I can say this city offers a travel experience that is completely different from other Guangdong destinations.

It does not have the modern skyline of Shenzhen or the famous landmarks of Guangzhou.

Instead, Shantou attracts visitors with its authentic lifestyle, historic streets, beautiful coastline, and unforgettable Chaoshan cuisine.

For travelers who want to discover a less touristy side of China, Shantou is a destination I highly recommend.

My biggest memory of Shantou was not only the delicious beef hotpot or beautiful beaches, but the feeling of walking through old streets and experiencing a city that still preserves its traditions.

Updated:2026-07-28 16:15:56