Shantou 3 Days 2 Nights | Detailed Attractions + Corresponding Local Restaurants

Accommodation Recommendation: Stay near Jinping Xiaogongyuan (Little Park) throughout the trip. This area boasts the highest concentration of food options in the old town, with endless late-night dining options. It's also very close to Haojiang and Longhu by taxi.

Optimized Logic: Each stop is supplemented with "real sights + exclusive nearby restaurants," ensuring a comprehensive and practical itinerary.

Day 1 Jinping District | Old Town Opening-up Cultural Route (Pure Local Slow-Paced Stroll)

1. Xiaogongyuan Arcade Blocks

The soul of Shantou's old town, a rare radial fan-shaped arcade block in China. The entire area is filled with Republican-era Nanyang-style buildings, brimming with Baroque and Romanesque carvings. No entrance fee, open all day. The core landmark is the Zhongshan Memorial Pavilion. The surrounding old department stores, old post offices, and retro street scenes are perfect for photos. Clean and bright during the day, the atmosphere deepens after the lights are turned on in the evening, like stepping into a scene from a bygone era movie.

 

Corresponding Foods (Must-Try Around Xiaogongyuan)

- Lao Ma Gong Zongzi: A classic Shantou brand, with firm glutinous rice and generous fillings of salted egg yolk, pork, and chestnuts. One zongzi is very filling and suitable for breakfast or as a snack.

- Lao Fu He Gou Wu Mi Guo: Chewy and firm, slightly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Served with garlic sauce, it's the authentic way to eat it. The most authentic ones are from the old-fashioned stalls in the alleyways.

 

- Yang Ji Almond Tea: Rich and smooth, not greasy, a classic combination with sesame paste, perfect for warming your stomach and quenching your thirst after a long day of shopping.

2. Laoma Palace Theater & Laoma Palace Temple

Shantou's oldest folk venue, the theater retains a traditional wooden stage and antique-style stands with intricate carvings. Even on weekdays without performances, it's worth a visit, with a strong retro and nostalgic feel.

The nearby Old Mother's Temple, with its exquisite porcelain inlay and wood carvings, is a representative of traditional Chaoshan architecture and a place where locals pray daily, exuding a strong sense of antiquity.

Nearby food options: Aixi Dry Noodles, a classic Chaoshan dry noodle dish. The noodles are springy, the satay sauce is rich and flavorful, and it's a standard local meal served with pork offal soup.

3. Opening Port Culture Exhibition Hall

Free admission to the Old Town Culture Exhibition Hall, closed on Mondays.

The museum comprehensively recounts the history of Shantou's opening to foreign trade, overseas Chinese migration to Southeast Asia, and the remittance trade, with detailed illustrations and artifacts. The air conditioning is cool, perfect for escaping the midday sun and quietly learning about Shantou's century-long development. A half-hour stroll or an hour for a more thorough visit is ideal.

 

Nearby dining recommendations: Zhenbang Food Street, home to many time-honored restaurants, where you can find everything from beef rice cakes and braised dishes to Chaoshan stir-fries.

 

4. Shantou Hostel (Photo Spot)

This is a classic old-fashioned hostel with a Republican-era style. The huge "Shantou" characters at the entrance are a classic Instagrammable spot. The retro signboard and arcade background give it a strong sense of history. You don't need to go inside; just take a picture of the facade. Daytime is best because there are fewer people and the lighting is softer.

Nearby snacks: Street-side grass jelly and tofu pudding are refreshing and perfect for snacking while strolling through the old town.

 

5. West Coast Park

This coastal park, themed around the opening of the port, features a wall displaying overseas Chinese letters, filled with stories of overseas Chinese correspondence and evoking memories of bygone eras. Inside, you'll find the former site of Fuyuan Garden, a seaside lawn, and a lighthouse installation, directly facing the Queshi Bridge, offering a panoramic view. Evening is the golden hour, with the sunset casting its glow on the sea and the bridge, perfect for silhouette photography.

 

Food: Rice noodle rolls (肠粉), thin and translucent skin, fresh meat filling, and a savory and flavorful sauce—a local favorite.

6. Chaoren Wharf

A relaxing riverside boardwalk, less crowded than Xidi Park, quiet and comfortable. You can take photos of the river, bridges, and city skyline. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, enjoying the river breeze, and the gentle light and shadow at dusk.

 

7. Square Ferry

Shantou's super cheap cross-river ferry, the journey only takes 10 minutes. Recommended to take it at sunset, you can see the old town's arcade buildings, Nanbin Mountain scenery, and the Queshi Bridge all at once from the sea, offering incredibly rich and layered views. No need to cross the river to explore; the round trip is all you need.

Near the ferry: The old-fashioned square-style tofu pudding and sweet soup stall has been a local favorite since childhood. The tofu pudding is smooth and tender, and the sweet soup is refreshingly sweet.

 

8. Zhongshan Park

A classic old-established park in Shantou, with Chinese-style pavilions, ponds, and ancient trees providing shade, creating a tranquil atmosphere. An evening stroll is incredibly pleasant, perfect for a relaxing walk after a long day in the old town.

(Jinsha Park has a similar style; if time is limited, it can be skipped without affecting the overall experience.)

 

Must-try late-night snacks: Beef hot pot, raw marinated meats (not recommended for those with sensitive stomachs), candied taro, oyster omelet, and sweet soup. The old town has long hours for late-night snacks and offers the widest selection.

 

Day 2 Haojiang District | Mountain & Sea + Museum Cultural Route

1. Nanbin Park

The riverside and seaside promenade offers unobstructed views, providing a panoramic view of Jinping Old Town and the inner bay of the river. The air is fresh, and it's quiet and less crowded, perfect for a simple warm-up walk to start your day. It's also a great place for taking clean and sophisticated photos.

 

2. Queshi Scenic Area

The only famous mountain in Shantou city, free admission, cable car and toboggan rides are at your own expense. The mountain is characterized by its unique rocks, caves, and lush forests. The hiking trails are comfortable and not steep. The viewing platform on the mountain offers a panoramic view of the entire Shantou Bay, the old city, and the coastline, providing a truly breathtaking vista. It is recommended to go in the morning to avoid the midday sun and fewer tourists.

 

Simple dining suggestions at the foot of the mountain: Chaozhou-style simple meals and rice noodle soup shops along Nanbin Road, authentic and affordable.

3. Zhenbao Museum

Closed on Mondays, advance reservation required, free admission.

Featuring exhibits on Chaoshan filigree inlay, traditional gold craftsmanship, and jewelry making, this is a rare traditional handicraft-themed museum. It's well worth a visit for art lovers and those who appreciate exquisite pieces. The museum's air conditioning is comfortable, making it a perfect place to escape the afternoon heat.

 

4. Chaoshan History and Culture Museum (Chaoshan Museum)

The largest comprehensive cultural museum in Chaoshan, it fully explores Chaoshan clans, overseas Chinese communities, architecture, opera, cuisine, and folk culture. The exhibition halls are large and the content is rich, providing a complete understanding of Chaoshan culture. It's suitable for travelers who want to delve deeper into the local customs and traditions.

 

5. Chaoshan Culture Park

Right outside the Chaoshan Museum, this park features expansive green spaces and Chaoshan-themed sculptures, creating a grand and impressive landscape. After visiting the museum, you can take a relaxing stroll here. It offers a wide view for taking photos, and is relatively quiet and uncrowded.

6. Zhonghai Golden Coast

A classic seaside beach area in Haojiang, featuring fine, gentle sand, expansive sea views, a seaside promenade, artistic photo spots, and a commercial street.

The best time to visit is in the evening, when the orange sunset paints the sea with a breathtakingly soothing glow. The lighting after dark also creates a wonderful atmosphere, perfect for wrapping up the second day's itinerary. Seaside snacks: barbecue, seafood stir-fries, and handmade lemon tea – perfect for relaxing and enjoying a bite while gazing at the sea.

Day 3 Longhu District | Island, Art, and Seaside Leisure Route

1. MixC Mall

Shantou's top-tier shopping mall, offering a complete range of brands and a comfortable environment, ideal for escaping the sun, enjoying a proper meal, and buying souvenirs. It gathers Chaoshan specialty restaurants, trendy shops, and offers both full meals and light snacks, perfect for a brunch break.

Must-try foods: Chaoshan beef main courses, Chaoshan rice cake shops, and specialty desserts. For a safe and reliable main course, choose this place.

 

2. Ma Yu Island

A small island in Shantou city, with a refreshing Japanese-style atmosphere. Highlights: Mazu Square, the painted wall by the sea, the crescent-shaped shallow beach, and the sea view from the cross-sea bridge. The pace of life on the island is slow, no need to rush, perfect for taking photos, enjoying the sea breeze, and strolling on the beach, with clean sea views everywhere.

Island snacks: Seaside juice, licorice fruit, and local specialties, perfect for grabbing a bite while exploring the island.

 

3. Bay Wetland Ecological Park

Features include a pristine wetland corridor, birdwatching platform, and expansive green spaces offering a wide view. The evening light is the softest, creating a strong sense of depth with the aquatic plants, boardwalk, and distant seascape, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll, relaxation, and taking refreshing photos.

 

4. Shiyihe Art Village

A culturally rich painted village transformed from an old Chaoshan village, combining traditional houses with 3D paintings and art installations, offering a blend of rustic charm and trendy photo opportunities. The alleyways are wonderful to explore, with new scenes at every turn. The village has teahouses and light snack shops where you can rest when you're tired.

Village food: Chaoshan tea snacks, light meals, and specialty drinks at reasonable prices, perfect for an afternoon tea to replenish energy.

 

5. East Coast Park + Overseas Chinese Park

These two seaside parks are connected. East Coast Park features an extra-long seaside promenade, a dolphin photo wall, and a sunrise viewing platform. Its nighttime lighting is beautiful, and the atmosphere is youthful. Overseas Chinese Park is quieter and more elegant, perfect for an evening stroll or relaxing get-together.

6. Half-Day Art Museum

A small art museum with exquisite exhibitions and a quiet, gentle atmosphere.

Perfect for a relaxing exhibition at the end of your trip, allowing you to slow down and conclude your Shantou journey. High-quality photos, ideal for a final check-in.

Additional Supplement｜Local Food Guide

- Breakfast: Kway Teow Soup, Rice Noodle Rolls, Rice Noodle Dumplings

- Lunch: Beef Hot Pot, Dry Noodles + Pork Offal Soup, Chaoshan Stir-fry

- Afternoon Tea: Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), Licorice Fruit, Traditional Tofu Sweet Soup/Old-fashioned Sweet Soup/Fried Taro

- Late Night Snack: Raw Marinated Food, Oyster Omelet, Plain Congee, Pork Kway Teow Soup

Updated:2026-07-31 22:06:49