10 Of The Best Tours & Experiences In Southern China

Southern China offers a rich variety of tours and experiences that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re after a peaceful wellness retreat, an adrenaline-filled adventure, or an in-depth cultural exploration, this region has something special for you. We especially love the 7-Day TaiChi & Qigong Wellness Retreat for its personalized approach and immersive workshops, perfect for those looking to unwind and learn about Chinese wellness practices in a serene setting. Meanwhile, the Gulong Gorge Skywalk and Waterfall Tour provides a thrilling escape into nature, with glass skywalks and waterfalls that will get your pulse racing. With its mix of culinary tours, cultural heritage, and adventure experiences, Southern China is a traveler’s playground.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through ten of the best tours and experiences, highlighting what makes each unique, who it’s best suited for, and practical details to help you decide. Whether you’re a foodie, outdoor enthusiast, or cultural explorer, you’ll find options that fit your interests and travel style.

1. 7-Day TaiChi & Qigong Wellness Retreat in China

At number one, this wellness retreat offers a comprehensive introduction to TaiChi and Qigong with 20 hours of personalized instruction. The tour is designed to deepen your practice, with award-winning masters teaching in English, so language isn’t a barrier. Over seven days, you’ll stay in comfortable accommodations and enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine, mixing local flavors with your familiar comforts. The immersive workshops are suitable for all levels, whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned practitioner.

What makes this retreat stand out is the focus on individual goals and the chance to learn from high-level teachers. The certificate of completion adds a tangible takeaway for those wanting to continue their wellness journey. The pleasant weather and well-located accommodations make this a peaceful, rejuvenating experience. Reviewers consistently rate this retreat a perfect 5.0/5, praising its tailored approach and authentic cultural experience.

Bottom line: This is ideal for health-conscious travelers seeking a peaceful, educational experience that combines culture and wellness at an affordable price.

2. From Dongguang To Gulong Gorge Skywalk Bridge and Waterfall Tour

Starting at number two, this half-day adventure takes you from Dongguan to Qingyuan Gulong Gorge. The highlight is the thrilling glass skywalk, along with waterfalls and rafting, making it perfect for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike. The tour includes convenient round-trip transfers and an English-speaking guide, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The main attraction, Gulong Gorge, is renowned for its stunning scenery and thrill-seeking activities.

What makes this tour special is the combination of scenic beauty and adrenaline—you can walk a transparent skywalk over a canyon, then cool off in the waterfalls or enjoy rafting. The price reflects its exclusive focus on adventure and scenery, making it a great value for thrill-seekers. The inclusion of admission tickets and a guide means you won’t have to worry about logistics, so you can focus on enjoying the experience.

Bottom line: Perfect for outdoor adventurers looking for a mix of natural beauty and exciting activities within a manageable half-day trip.

3. Shantou Foodie Day Tour with Cooking Class

Number three offers a full-day food-focused experience in Shantou. It’s an ideal choice for foodies and families wanting to dive into local flavors. You’ll start with street food sampling in a nostalgic neighborhood—think rice noodle rolls and Heb Marinated Fresh Fruit—before heading to a local market to shop for ingredients. The highlight is a hands-on cooking class in a family-style kitchen, where you’ll learn to prepare 2-3 authentic dishes, then enjoy your creations for lunch.

Later, the tour takes you to historic sites like Shantou Old Town and the Pearl Plaza. The tour’s value is enhanced by the inclusiveness: all cooking tools and ingredients are provided, and you get a chance to explore local markets and eateries. The dinner at Chaoshan style beef hotpot is highly recommended, offering a taste of regional specialties.

Review: One group found the tour “a delightful way to understand local flavors and culture.” It’s best suited for those who love hands-on cooking and local food.

Bottom line: A fantastic choice for food lovers who want a comprehensive taste of Shantou’s culinary scene combined with cultural sights.

4. Kaiping Watchtowers Jiangmen City One Day Private Tour

Ranked fourth, this private full-day tour explores the UNESCO-listed Kaiping Diaolou and the historic town of Jiangmen. Starting with the Diaolou Group of Zicun Village, you’ll see a fascinating blend of Chinese and Western architectural styles—a legacy of the early 20th-century emigrant influence. The tour continues to Majianglong Ancient Village, known for its bamboo forests and peaceful atmosphere.

In Jiangmen’s Chikan Old Town, you’ll experience local food and traditional architecture, giving you a taste of everyday life in this region. The tour is flexible, allowing customization if you have specific interests, which makes it suitable for those seeking a deeper cultural experience.

While there are no reviews yet, the itinerary promises a mix of architectural marvels and local flavor, ideal for history buffs and architecture admirers. The tour’s private nature means you can move at your own pace.

Bottom line: An excellent option for travelers wanting an immersive, personalized day exploring ancient villages and cultural heritage.

5. Chaozhou and Shantou Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience

This 8-day tour offers an immersive dive into Chaozhou and Shantou’s intangible cultural heritage. Led by a professional guide, you’ll learn to make red clay teapots, and cook traditional Teochew dishes like kway Teow and beef meatballs. The trip also includes visits to scenic spots such as Small Park Shantou, Nan’ao Island, and Kaiyuan Temple.

What makes this experience stand out is the blend of hands-on craft and culinary lessons with sightseeing, giving you a well-rounded cultural understanding. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy interactive activities and want to connect deeply with local traditions. The tour’s length makes it a more involved experience, perfect for those with ample time.

While the price is higher—at $1,397—it reflects the personalized, multi-day nature of the experience. The inclusion of local chef-led cooking sessions and cultural visits offers excellent value for those interested in living like a local.

Bottom line: Best suited for serious cultural explorers who want an in-depth, multi-day immersion.

6. Exclusive Golf Experience at Hainan Jian Lake Blue Bay

Number six is a luxury golf tour at the prestigious Jian Lake Blue Bay Golf Club, known for hosting the Blue Bay LPGA since 2014. The tour includes 18-holes of golf with a green fee, cart, caddie, and insurance. It’s a rare chance to play at a top-tier course on Hainan Island, whether you’re a serious golfer or an enthusiast wanting to try a course where professional tournaments are held.

The course’s location in the serene Clear Water Bay adds to the experience, and the early morning tee times mean you might beat the crowds. After golf, you might explore a nearby fishing village to enjoy fresh seafood, making this a well-rounded day of leisure.

With a price of $268 per person, the tour offers great value given the reputation of the course and the facilities. It’s best suited for golfers with at least some experience and the willingness to travel for a premium experience.

Bottom line: A luxurious outing for golf lovers seeking a world-class course and a touch of exclusivity.

7. Jieyang Chaoshan Airport Private airport transfer Service

Coming in at number seven, this private transfer service ensures smooth, reliable transportation between Jieyang Chaoshan Airport and your hotel. For $20, you get a professional driver with a vehicle compliant with local laws, meeting you at the airport exit or hotel lobby.

While not a tour in the traditional sense, this service is essential for hassle-free arrivals and departures. It’s ideal for travelers who value convenience and want to start their trip stress-free or have tight connections.

The service is straightforward and includes all fees, with no surprise charges. It’s suitable for solo travelers, families, or groups looking for a simple, reliable transfer.

Bottom line: A practical choice to ensure your journey begins and ends smoothly, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transport options.

8. Monkey Island and Floating Village Seafood Adventure

Number eight features an 8-hour day exploring Hainan’s unique Monkey Island and the Dan Floating Village. You’ll see over 1,500 wild macaques on Xincun Harbour, then take a 6000-foot cable car ride for panoramic views. The adventure continues with a cruise through the village’s labyrinth of wooden piers, followed by a seafood banquet where you select your own catch, including pufferfish porridge.

The combination of wildlife, scenic views, and interactive seafood dining makes this tour a standout. The Hainan Dan Museum visit offers insight into the island’s cultural history, rounding out the experience.

Perfect for families or wildlife lovers, the tour provides a mix of nature, culture, and cuisine. The cost is reasonable, at $150 per person, and includes all major activities.

Bottom line: A well-rounded, fun-filled day that blends animal encounters, scenic views, and tasty seafood.

9. Haikou Volcano Crater Hiking & Old Street Food 1-Day Tour

This 9-hour tour combines adventure and culinary delights. It begins at the Leiqiong Geopark, where you’ll hike to a 222-meter volcano summit, explore ancient lava formations, and visit an interactive Volcano Museum. Next, you’ll wander through Qilou Old Street, with its historic arcades, carved facades, and cozy cafes.

The day concludes at the Haikou Night Market, where you can sample over 200 local foods, including Coconut Milk Qingbuliang and seafood BBQ. The tour’s mix of geology, history, and street food makes it perfect for those wanting a full immersion into Hainan’s diverse attractions.

This tour offers great value for its combination of active sightseeing and vibrant local dining, making it suitable for active travelers and foodies alike.

Bottom line: An ideal day for those wanting a mix of outdoor adventure and authentic street food.

10. Wanning Stand Up Paddle boarding Adventure at Sun Moon Bay

Finally, number ten provides a relaxing water-based experience at Sun Moon Bay. For about $100, you’ll enjoy a 3-hour guided paddleboarding trip along a scenic 5-kilometer route through water coconut groves. Suitable for all skill levels, the tour includes professional instruction, safety gear, and a chance to learn about the local ecosystem.

A highlight is the tranquil environment, perfect for those who want to enjoy peaceful waters and stunning scenery without extreme activity. The tour also includes a break to sample tropical fruits, turning the activity into a laid-back, nature-focused experience.

The tour’s affordability and gentle pace make it ideal for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a peaceful escape on the water.

Bottom line: A relaxing yet scenic water activity perfect for a slow-paced, nature-focused day.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting a tour in Southern China, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If wellness and culture appeal, the 7-Day TaiChi & Qigong Retreat offers deep relaxation and education. For adventure lovers, the Gulong Gorge Skywalk provides thrills amidst stunning scenery. Foodies will enjoy the Shantou Foodie Tour, while those seeking luxury and leisure might opt for the Hainan Golf Experience.

Check the duration of each experience—some are single-day adventures, while others span multiple days. Budget considerations also matter; some tours like the private transfers are quite affordable, while cultural or luxury options are higher priced but may offer more personalized service or immersive activities.

Booking early is recommended, especially for popular experiences like the golf tour or multi-day cultural trips, to secure availability. Think about your physical fitness level—adventure activities like rafting or hiking require a certain level of stamina, while relaxing paddleboarding or culinary tours are suitable for most.

Final Thoughts

Southern China offers an impressive range of tours and experiences that highlight its natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant local life. For a peaceful introduction to Chinese wellness practices, the 7-Day TaiChi & Qigong Retreat is hard to beat. For a taste of adventure, the Gulong Gorge Skywalk delivers excitement and breathtaking views. And for those wanting a cultural deep dive, the Cultural Heritage Tour of Chaozhou and Shantou offers authentic living traditions.

Whatever your interests and travel style, these options are sure to enrich your visit and create lasting memories. Remember to book early, especially for highly rated or limited-space experiences, and enjoy your journey through Southern China’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures.