Summer is one of the best times to tour in Guangdong. From misty mountains and scenic coastlines to historic towns and dynamic cities, the province offers something for every traveler. Follow this guide as we journey across Guangdong, exploring the destinations, landscapes and local experiences that make summer here unforgettable.
Stop 1: Eastern Guangdong—Discover the Chaoshan region through the film Dear You
The hit film Dear You has brought the stories of eastern Guangdong's overseas Chinese communities to audiences across China. Follow in the film's footsteps on a leisurely journey through Shantou, Chaozhou and Shanwei, where historic streets, vibrant traditions and coastal scenery come together.
Shantou
Shantou, a historic treaty port, is one of the best places in eastern Guangdong to experience the region's rich overseas Chinese heritage. Begin at Shantou's Small Park (小公园), where rows of century-old qilou (arcade buildings) recall the city's prosperous trading past.
Film fans can visit Xiannan Cinema on Haiping Road (海平路), one of the filming locations for Dear You. Its vintage facade makes it a popular backdrop for retro-style photos.
One of the film's key settings is a courtyard house in Tangxi Village (塘西村), Chenghai District. Weathered wooden doors, old furniture and olive trees shading the courtyard have kept it much as it appears on screen.
History lovers should not miss Zhanglin Ancient Port (樟林古港), once a major departure point for overseas Chinese heading to Southeast Asia. Nearby, the Former Residence of Chen Cihong (陈慈黉故居), often described as the finest overseas Chinese mansion in Lingnan, showcases the legacy of overseas Chinese entrepreneurs through its blend of Chinese and Western architecture.
Another highlight is the Shantou Qiaopi Museum (汕头侨批文物馆), where letters and remittance documents sent home by overseas Chinese offer a moving glimpse into family ties, perseverance and patriotism that have endured for generations.
Chaozhou
For a refreshing escape, you can head to Fenghuang Mountain (凤凰山), where rolling tea plantations offer cool mountain air even in midsummer. There, you can also join local tea growers to experience every step of producing the region's famous Dancong tea, from picking fresh leaves to traditional roasting.
As evening falls, Chaozhou Ancient City (潮州古城) comes alive with the rhythmic beats of Yingge dance. The energetic performances reflect the bold spirit and rich folk traditions of Teochew culture.
After dark, Guangji Bridge (广济桥) lights up the Hanjiang River, creating one of the city's most iconic night views. A stroll along the riverside is the perfect way to enjoy the evening breeze after a warm summer day.
No visit to Chaozhou is complete without sampling its celebrated cuisine. Crispy oyster omelets and licorice-marinated fruits showcase the distinctive tastes that have made Teochew cuisine famous throughout China.
Shanwei
For coastal scenery, Shanwei is recommended for its dramatic shorelines and laid-back fishing towns, making it an ideal summer destination.
Honghai Bay (红海湾), on Shanwei's Zhelang Peninsula (遮浪半岛), is known for its sandy beaches and sweeping coastal views. A castle-style café housed in a former wave power station has become one of the area's most distinctive landmarks.
The nearby Shigongliao Peninsula (施公寮半岛) features a scenic coastal road, white wind turbines and clear waters. At Jinting Bay (金町湾), soft white sand and a sail-inspired auditorium create a picture-perfect seaside setting.
As night falls, the night market on Erma Road (二马路) is a perfect place to experience Shanwei's local food scene. A comforting bowl of congee, vegetable tea and pan-fried hairtail make the perfect end to a summer day.
Stay tuned for Stop 2, where we will explore the summer highlights of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
Author | He Fengyu
Photos | CCTV News WeChat Official Account
The Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Fabu, Zhongshan Daily, netizen @庄与野, VCG, contributed to this report.
