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Top 10 attractions in Shantou

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Nan'ao Island
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Chaoshan Region

Nan'ao Island

7.7
4.4/5
1.9k reviews
Nan'ao Island is an island county located on the border between Guangdong Province and Fujian Province. Nan'ao Island has not been opened up extensively. The scenery still retains its original natural beauty. The sea water is clear and the sand quality is superior. In addition to the natural landscape, the island contains historical sites such as the Nan'ao Zongbingfu and the Song well. This place has many kinds of seafood, which is tasty and inexpensive. So this is a great place to eat seafood while watching the sea.Nan'ao County · 4.2 km from downtown
Queshi Scenic Spot
No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Shantou

Queshi Scenic Spot

7.3
4.5/5
677 reviews
Queshi scenic area is located in Haojiang District on the south bank of the inner bay of Shantou, facing the old city across the sea. The character "Que" originally means "stone mountain". The mountain is covered with granite, which has been weathered over a long period of time, forming a continuous range of stone egg-shaped hills. Strange peaks, secluded valleys, and bizarre rocks are framed together with the bay scenery, and mountains, sea, rocks, and caves make up a beautiful landscape. The attraction consists of six sections: Xiaoshi, Tashan, Yanfeng, Xianglushan, Bijiashan, and Su'an. Among them, Tashan and Yanfeng are more developed and are the main destinations for most tourists. The attraction is divided into six attractions, namely Xiaoshi attraction, Queshi Tashan attraction, Yanfeng attraction, Xianglu Mountain, Bijia Mountain attraction, and Su'an attraction. Among them, Xianglu attraction and Bijia Mountain attraction are currently under development. You can choose to visit the remaining four attractions based on your preference, with Queshi Tashan attraction and Yanfeng attraction being the main highlights. This is because Queshi Tashan attraction is relatively more developed, while Yanfeng attraction is another well-developed attraction, which is comparatively larger—about three times the size of Queshi Tashan attraction—and notably features the natural scenery of Dream Valley. Tashan mountain is renowned for its secluded rock caves and cliff inscriptions, with attractions like Shuilian cave, Taohua stream, and Liudan pavilion scattered across its slopes. Its highlight is Chuihong cave—a series of interconnected caverns naturally formed by stacked granite boulders, where large and small rocks cluster chaotically along the ceilings and walls like a stone corridor. Visitors crawl through the cave and emerge halfway up the mountain; further up lies Piaoran pavilion at Tashan's summit. This two-story, six-pillared pavilion offers panoramic views of Shantou's inner bay and the city skyline opposite, making it perpetually popular. The quieter Mengou pavilion lies not far along the hiking trail. Visitors can choose the cable car or slide for ascent/descent, or hike the entire route. The least strenuous option is taking the cable car up and descending through Chuihong cave's rocky passage. The Flame peak area is much more open than Ta mountain, with its signature attraction being Dream valley: in the 1920s, writer Xiao Qian fell in love with a Chaoshan girl in Queshi and later wrote the novel "Dream valley" based on this experience. The valley features lush trees and serene streams, offering a different kind of rustic charm beyond rock and sea views. The attraction also preserves Western-style old buildings from the port-opening era, such as the former British consulate and Queshi church. After admiring the mountains and sea, these colonial-era structures present another unique aspect that distinguishes Queshi from ordinary mountain-sea attractions. To the left, a 5-minute walk leads to Chuihong Cave. This naturally formed granite cave complex features stacked boulders of varying sizes along its ceiling and walls, creating a stone corridor. Climbing through the cave is akin to ascending a mountain, as the exit actually nears the summit. Not far from Chui Hong Cave is the mountaintop viewing platform Piao Ran Pavilion, where you can overlook the panoramic view of Shantou, but this spot tends to be crowded. The Meng Ou Pavilion on the western side is quieter, and the distance between the two can be covered in approx. 10 mins on foot. After visiting, you can choose to take the slideway down the mountain.Shantou · 2.5 km from downtown
Chaoshan Historical and Cultural Expo Center
No. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Shantou

Chaoshan Historical and Cultural Expo Center

6.7
4.1/5
88 reviews
The architecture of the Chaoshan History and Culture Expo Center ingeniously blends local Chaozhou-Shantou characteristics while facing Shantou Bay, embodying the concept of "mountain and sea integration." It serves as a large-scale cultural expo center integrating various functions such as culture, exhibition, leisure, and tourism.Shantou · 5 km from downtown
Shantou Small Park
Selected for Global Traveller-Picked Attractions in Shantou

Shantou Small Park

6.6
4.5/5
379 reviews
Shantou Small Park, the commercial center and cultural center of the old city of Shantou, is the core landmark and cultural symbol of the old city of Shantou. A small park in a narrow sense refers to the Zhongshan Memorial Pavilion at the core of the small park area. The small park in a broad sense covers the neighborhoods around the Zhongshan Memorial Pavilion, including Anping Road, Shengping Road, Guoping Road, etc., collectively referred to as the small park historical and cultural area. The arcades and streets in the small park area basically imitate the style of Parisian blocks, and are distributed radially in a fan shape; plus the old neighborhoods on both sides "Si Yong Yi Sheng Ping", the old "Yanchengtou" in the east, the red pavilion in the north, and the "Ping" in the south. Shantou Port” has formed a prosperous commercial area and residential area with the architectural characteristics of the 1930s. The department store in the area is 7-storey high. Its predecessor was the "Nansheng Company" founded by the Overseas Chinese Group in 1932. It was the second tallest building in Shantou before liberation, and was one of the symbols of old Shantou's landmark buildings and small parks.Shantou · 843m from downtown
Shantou Old Town
No. 2 of Global Traveller-Picked Attractions in Shantou

Shantou Old Town

6.6
4.5/5
795 reviews
Shantou Old Town refers to the old city district on the north bank of the Min River. This district contains many buildings, verandas and shops built in the early 20th century. This gives the old town a unique, historical style. The area was once one of Shantou's vibrant commercial centers. Some important old buildings, such as the Yongping Restaurant, Main Shantou Post Office and the Laoma Palace still remain to this day, remnants of the area's previous prominence.Shantou · 1.1 km from downtown
Former Residence of Chen Cihong
No. 5 of Global Traveller-Picked Attractions in Shantou

Former Residence of Chen Cihong

6.4
4.2/5
319 reviews
The Former Residence of Chen Cihong is a large-scale residential complex built by the Chen Cihong family, prominent overseas Chinese industrialists. Construction began in 1910. Covering 25,400 square meters, the estate features 506 rooms across multiple mansions including Langzhongdi, Shoukangli, and Shanju House. The architecture blends Chinese and Western styles, combining traditional "Four Horses Pulling a Carriage" layouts with Western-style buildings, adorned with pavilions, bridges, and covered corridors. The interiors showcase exquisite gold-lacquered wood carvings and imported ceramic tiles, creating an atmosphere of magnificent opulence.Shantou · 24.6 km from downtown
Qing'ao Bay
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Nan'ao Island

Qing'ao Bay

6.1
4.7/5
506 reviews
Qing'ao Bay is to Shantou what Yalong Bay National Resort is to Sanya. This bay on the eastern side of Nan'ao Island leaves a strong impression with its crystal-clear blue waters and fine sandy beaches. As one of the most beautiful bays on Nan'ao Island, it serves as a primary destination for many visitors. After arriving on the island by boat, you can take the island loop bus directly at the ferry terminal, which will take you to the attraction. The bay of the attraction faces southeast with a deep basin, spanning 2.9 km in arc length. Viewed from above, it resembles a crescent moon, with rows of casuarina trees stretching along the curved beach. The waves, white sand, forest belt, and newly built pavilions within the woods create a picturesque scene by the shore. The beach here has a gentle slope extending into the sea with shallow coastal waters, making it an ideal bathing beach perfect for swimming. This is also a great area to stay. Most travelers visiting the island choose either Hap Mun Bay or this area for check-in. If you want ocean views, this location is more suitable than Hap Mun Bay.Nan'ao County · 11.5 km from downtown
Zongbing Fu (Regional Military Command's Headquarters)
No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Nan'ao Island

Zongbing Fu (Regional Military Command's Headquarters)

5.8
4.2/5
397 reviews
Zongbingfu was Nan'ao commander's office during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It was put together by Yu Jifang, the then Nan'ao vice commander. The current building is the product of rebuilt. In front of the Zongbingfu, there is a cannon on both sides. In addition, there are two large banyan trees in front of the building. Legend has it that Zheng Chenggong had lectured under these trees in the late Ming Dynasty and recruited soldiers to recover Taiwan. Therefore, this tree is also known as the "recruiting tree."Nan'ao County · 8.7 km from downtown
"Gate of Nature" — the Tropic of Cancer Marker on Nan'ao Island
No. 6 of Best Things to Do in Shantou

"Gate of Nature" — the Tropic of Cancer Marker on Nan'ao Island

5.6
4.6/5
161 reviews
Tropic of Cancer Tower -"The Gate of Nature" is located in Qing 'ao Bay at the eastern end of Nan Ao Island. It is the 11th Tropic of Cancer marker tower built in China so far. This is the unique scenery of Nan Ao on the Tropic of Cancer and is bound to play an important role in the research of the world's astronomy and geography communities. When the sun shines directly on the Tropic of Cancer, the shadow of the sun will pass through the central tube of the upper sphere and project onto the center of the platform, which is one of the new attractions in Nan Ao. The construction of the Tropic of Cancer marker at Qing 'ao Bay has added a new member to the Tropic of Cancer marker family and is another measure for humanity to have a deeper understanding of the Tropic of Cancer and the Earth.Nan'ao County · 11.8 km from downtown
Sunset Sightseeing in Shantou
No. 4 of Activities in Guangdong

Sunset Sightseeing in Shantou

5.3
The sunset in Shantou is the most lingering and poetic chapter on the coast of the South China Sea. When the heat of the day gradually dissipates, the sky begins to brew a carnival of colors. The sea and the skyline in the distance interweave into a hazy curtain, waiting for the sunset to appear. As the dusk deepens, the setting sun slowly falls to the west, first gilding the clouds, then dyeing the entire sky into a honey-like orange, and then smudges out a rich crimson purple and deep rose red. The afterglow pours down on the sea, and the sparkling water seems to be covered with flowing broken gold, and the waves gently hit the shore with the glow of the sunset. The returning fishing boats shuttle on the golden waterway, their silhouettes are stretched out, and the sea breeze blows with salty and fireworks. In Shantou, sunset is not only the change of natural light and shadow, but also the gentle blending of the city and the mountains and the sea. Wherever the afterglow passes, there is an intoxicating human romance.China · Nan'ao County

Experiences you can't miss in Shantou

Featured Day tours in Shantou

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Shantou Nan'ao Island 1-day tour + including bridge toll + pure play with pickup + 10 hrs + optional female driver
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5.0/5
· 4 reviews· 52 booked
Duration: 8.4 hrs
English
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FromSEK 148.00
Private One-Day Tour: Shantou "A Letter to Grandma" + Qiaopi (Overseas Chinese Correspondence) Experience+pick up&drop off service offered in Chaozhou or Shantou
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FromSEK 332.00
Private Nan'ao Island Charter Day Tour | Chaozhou/Shantou Transfer Included Bridge Toll Covered • Optional Sea Fishing
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 6.9 hrs
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FromSEK 398.00
1-day tour around Nan'ao Island (Departing from Shantou)
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 5.5 hrs
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FromSEK 474.00
Shantou Small Park + Mayu Island + Local Delicacies 1-day Tour
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Duration: 7 hrs
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FromSEK 372.00

Featured Cultural experiences in Shantou

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Guangdong intangible cultural heritage performance experience/Chaoshan Yingge dance | Shantou Yingge dance (interactive/photo opportunity available)
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3.9/5
· 19 reviews· 903 booked
Duration: 30 mins
English
Free cancellation
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FromSEK 97.00
Private Tour | One-Day Trip to Phoenix Dancong Tea Mountain in Chaoshan / Tea Picking and Tasting Experience / Optional Upgrade to Tea Making Service
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FromSEK 506.00
Chaozhou the great tide returns·dreaming of Zhuchao show (live performance + immersive cultural feast)
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4.7/5
· 3 reviews· 73 booked
Duration: 1 hr
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FromSEK 176.00
Zaiyang teahouse in Chaozhou | Paifang street branch • Enjoy tea and Chaozhou opera (tea drinking with opera + traditional Chaozhou opera)
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FromSEK 219.00
Chaozhou Chaohuang Yingge Dance Experience Hall show/concert ticket (intangible cultural heritage + millennium Chaozhou charm + immersive experience)
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FromSEK 116.00

Featured Food & drink in Shantou

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Tide Watching Tower|Three-Person Package
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Mandarin
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Guanchaolou|Meal for 8 people
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Duration: 2 hrs
Mandarin
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FromSEK 1,767.00
Guanchaolou|Classic Meal for 4
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Duration: 2 hrs
Mandarin
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FromSEK 875.00

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Free things to do in Shantou

What travelers say about Shantou

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stanwzgAugust 6, 2026
4.0
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.

Nan'ao Island

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_zx***82September 30, 2026
5.0
Taking this cable car is a major attraction in the Queshi Scenic Area. The staff at the stations are very responsible, and the cable car operates safely and hygienically. Climbing to the top of Tashan Mountain and getting a bird's-eye view of Shantou is a very pleasant experience.

Queshi Scenic Spot

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Anonymous userJuly 7, 2026
5.0
Heritage and performance, place was cosy and huge to host many viewers. Was a great experience to learn about traditional culture.

Chaoshan Historical and Cultural Expo Center

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褪色的回忆0919September 16, 2026
5.0
Shantou Xiaogongyuan (Little Park) is located in the Shantou Port Opening Area, centrally situated at the intersection of Guoping Road, Shengping Road, and Anping Road in Jinping District, Shantou City, Guangdong Province. Starting from the "Sun Yat-sen Memorial Pavilion," a series of arcade-style streets named "Siyong Yishengping" radiate outwards in a ring, forming a city block. It boasts the largest collection of modern arcade buildings in China, most of which were invested and built by overseas Chinese who returned to their hometowns after venturing to Southeast Asia in earlier years. It's definitely worth a visit!

Shantou Small Park

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枫原没有万叶August 1, 2025
5.0
Shantou's Old Town is a treasure trove steeped in time, a fusion of Baroque arcades and Nanyang-style architecture. The aging bricks and tiles hold memories of a prosperous century-old commercial port. The aroma of local delicacies like Chaoshan beef balls and rice noodles fills the air, while details like the inlaid porcelain of the Guanyin Temple and the dome of the General Post Office are stunning. The free admission streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Despite signs of commercial transformation, the authentic atmosphere and rich history of the city remain. A two-day experience offers a chance to deeply experience the mysteries of the mountains and sea, and the memories of the city.

Shantou Old Town

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189***86October 21, 2026
5.0
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.

Former Residence of Chen Cihong

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M90***14April 14, 2025
5.0
踏入青澳湾,仿佛闯入了一幅绝美的自然画卷。那片湛蓝的大海,清澈见底,阳光洒下,波光粼粼,似无数钻石在海面跳跃,海浪轻拍沙滩,奏响轻柔交响曲。 沿着沙滩漫步,细柔的沙子如棉花糖般,富含矿物质的沙质对身体有益,沙滩上贝壳遍布,小螃蟹横行,充满趣味。登高眺望,湾似新月静卧,风平浪静时,海面如镜,倒映天空山峦,构成如诗如画的美景。 青澳湾的海上项目令人兴奋不已。坐快艇飞驰海面,海风呼啸,浪花飞溅,刺激感十足;驾驶海上摩托艇穿梭,宛如海上骑士,自由畅快。 傍晚时分,夕阳西下,天空与大海被染成橙红色,坐在沙滩上看落日,内心满是宁静惬意。夜间的青澳湾也别具魅力,海边大排档的新鲜海鲜,令人垂涎三尺,美味在舌尖绽放。 此外,青澳湾还有着深厚的文化底蕴。北回归线标志塔“自然之门”,是独特的地标,见证太阳直射奇观,感受天文地理的神奇。周边的历史古迹,承载着岁月痕迹,让人了解当地的历史文化。

Qing'ao Bay

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爱旅行的min小姐April 22, 2026
4.0
There aren't many attractions on Nan'ao Island besides the beach. I made a special trip to the General's Mansion, the only one of its kind on a Chinese island. It's incredibly small, though. You can see the contents of a few houses and finish in half an hour. I wouldn't recommend it if you're on a limited island trip. The scenery along the way is nice though.

Zongbing Fu (Regional Military Command's Headquarters)

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不一样的风采778March 4, 2026
5.0
The Tropic of Cancer Gate to Nature is a giant suspended sphere sculpture. Taking photos from below can help you avoid the crowds. The beach is also a great spot for taking pictures. The sand is very fine and clean, and you can also go jet skiing in the summer.

"Gate of Nature" — the Tropic of Cancer Marker on Nan'ao Island

Popular cities near Shantou

Frequently asked questions

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Shantou Nan'ao Island 1-day tour + including bridge toll + pure play with pickup + 10 hrs + optional female driver, Private One-Day Tour: Shantou "A Letter to Grandma" + Qiaopi (Overseas Chinese Correspondence) Experience+pick up&drop off service offered in Chaozhou or Shantou, and Private Nan'ao Island Charter Day Tour | Chaozhou/Shantou Transfer Included Bridge Toll Covered • Optional Sea Fishing. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of October 24, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Shantou is around SEK 148 – SEK 2,261. Rates vary by duration, group size, transportation, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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