Shantou is a lively city in southern China that offers more than just bustling markets and tasty street food. Its diverse tours and experiences give travelers a chance to connect with local culture, explore historic sites, or enjoy scenic island escapes. We particularly love the Yingge Dance, Little Park & Ferry Cultural Day Trip for its engaging cultural performances and beautiful ferry ride, and the Longhu Ancient Village & Kaiyuan Temple for a deep dive into regional history. Whether you’re after vibrant traditions or peaceful nature, Shantou’s tours deliver authentic experiences.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of outings suited for different interests. For culture lovers, there’s the Yingge Dance and Cultural Day Trip, which combines dance, historic homes, and a ferry ride. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Chaozhou Ancient City & Kaiyuan Temple Day Trip, offering visits to ancient temples and bridges. For those seeking scenic relaxation, the Nan’ao Bridge, Qing’ao Bay & Mayu Island provides a day of island hopping and seaside views. Each tour has its own unique appeal, so consider your interests and schedule when choosing.
- Quick Overview
- 1. Shantou: Yingge Dance, Little Park & Ferry Cultural Day Trip
- 2. Shantou 1 day Tour: Longhu Ancient Village & Kaiyuan Temple
- 3. Shantou: Chaozhou Ancient City & Kaiyuan Temple Day Trip
- 4. Shantou: Nan’ao Bridge, Qing’ao Bay & Mayu Island 1 day Tour
- How to Choose the Right Tour
- Final Thoughts
1. Shantou: Yingge Dance, Little Park & Ferry Cultural Day Trip
This day trip has quickly become a favorite for travelers wanting to experience Shantou’s cultural essence. For $95 per person, you get a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s traditions and history in just a day. The tour kicks off with the Yingge Dance, a lively Chaoshan folk performance that reveals local stories through intricate movements and costumes—definitely a highlight for anyone interested in regional customs. Next, you’ll explore Chen Cihong’s Residence, a century-old home showcasing traditional architecture and the life of a prominent local figure.
A stroll through Little Park, a historic complex from the Republic of China era, offers a peaceful break and a chance to see how early 20th-century life was lived in Shantou. The Chaoshan Historical and Cultural Exposition Center provides interesting displays about the region’s development over centuries. The tour’s unique feature is the cross-sea ferry ride, which offers stunning sunset views and a refreshing sea breeze. Many reviewers mention how the ferry’s tranquil atmosphere makes the experience memorable. This tour is best suited for those interested in cultural heritage and scenic transportation. It’s an affordable way to enjoy a full day of local flavor.
Bottom Line: An engaging, affordable introduction to Shantou’s culture with scenic moments and historical insights that appeal to curious travelers.
2. Shantou 1 day Tour: Longhu Ancient Village & Kaiyuan Temple
At number 2, this 1-day tour offers a comprehensive look at Chaozhou’s historic sites, accessible from Shantou in about 1.5 hours. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see traditional architecture, ancient shrines, and bridges. The tour includes visits to Longhu Ancient Village, known for its preserved traditional houses and local crafts, and Han Wengong Shrine, a striking temple with centuries of stories.
The highlight for many is Guangji Bridge, one of China’s four ancient bridges, still standing as a testament to old engineering skills. The Kaiyuan Temple—the most important temple in eastern Guangdong—offers a peaceful setting and intricate stone carvings. The tour’s itinerary is carefully designed to maximize sightseeing while allowing time for a local lunch, which offers insights into Chaoshan cuisine. The transportation is air-conditioned, making the long day comfortable.
Most reviews note the tour’s depth of historical content and the opportunity to learn about regional dialects and crafts. It’s ideal for history buffs or those curious about traditional Chinese architecture. Slightly long for some, but the cultural richness makes up for it.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded day trip that immerses you in chaoshan culture, perfect for history lovers and those wanting a thorough regional overview.
3. Shantou: Chaozhou Ancient City & Kaiyuan Temple Day Trip
This tour combines the charms of Chaozhou’s ancient city with the serenity of Kaiyuan Temple, making it a favorite for travelers craving a cultural deep dive. Starting early, the day includes visits to Paifang Street, celebrated as one of the “Eight Scenic Spots” of Chaozhou, where traditional architecture and local shops create a lively atmosphere. You’ll also explore Kaiyuan Temple, renowned as the region’s most prominent religious site, with stunning stone carvings and tranquil courtyards.
The tour also highlights Guangji Bridge, known for its beautiful stonework and long history. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy a traditional rice cake-making experience, giving a taste of local culinary craftsmanship. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off in Shantou makes this an easy choice for those who want a hassle-free day.
Reviewers appreciate the smooth logistics and the chance to see some of China’s most iconic bridges and temples in one day. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balance of sightseeing, cultural activities, and local flavor, without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for history and architecture fans wanting a comprehensive exploration of Chaozhou’s historic sites.
4. Shantou: Nan’ao Bridge, Qing’ao Bay & Mayu Island 1 day Tour
For those looking for scenic island adventures, this tour hits the mark with a mix of engineering marvels, beach relaxation, and cultural exploration. Starting at 8:00 AM, you’ll cross the Nan’ao Bridge, a 270-foot-long structure offering panoramic views of the sea and mountains — a favorite photo spot for travelers. The day continues with visits to Qing’ao Bay, where soft sands and clear waters invite you to relax and soak up the sun.
The trip’s highlight is Mayu Island, a charming spot known for its quiet beaches and local charm. You’ll explore the island’s cultural sites and enjoy a delicious lunch featuring seafood and regional specialties. The round-trip transportation makes this an easy escape from the city, and the guided visits are paced for comfort—especially for those prone to seasickness or seeking scenic tranquility.
Reviewers mention how the picturesque views and the peaceful island atmosphere make this tour stand out. It’s suited for nature lovers and anyone craving a break from urban life. The main consideration is that people over 70 or pregnant travelers should consider the boat rides and walking involved.
Bottom Line: A scenic, relaxing day trip perfect for island lovers and those eager to see Shantou’s coastal beauty.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and available time. If you want a cultural overview with lively performances and ferry rides, the Yingge Dance & Ferry Cultural Day Trip offers great value. For a deep dive into regional history and architecture, the Chaozhou City & Kaiyuan Temple provides a thorough experience.
If your main goal is scenic beauty and island exploration, the Nan’ao Bridge and Mayu Island delivers peaceful beaches and stunning views. Budget-wise, the cultural tours are usually more affordable, but all tours are good value considering transportation and guided insights.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, and check the tour specifics regarding physical activity or weather conditions. Each tour provides a unique way to experience Shantou—pick the one that aligns best with your interests.
Final Thoughts
Shantou offers a variety of tours and experiences for every type of traveler, from cultural explorers to nature lovers. The Yingge Dance and Cultural Day Trip stands out for its lively performances and scenic ferry rides, while the Chaozhou City & Kaiyuan Temple appeals to those wanting history and architecture. Meanwhile, island fans should consider the Nan’ao Bridge & Mayu Island tour for a relaxing seaside escape.
No matter which you choose, these tours provide a great way to see a different side of Shantou. For an authentic and memorable experience, consider booking early and tailoring your choice to your interests.