Jieyang Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Jieyang? Check out our comprehensive travel guide feat. must-visit attractions, local food & drink, and important travel tips.


Introduction to Jieyang

Located in the eastern part of Guangdong, Jieyang is a city filled with cultural heritage, rich history, and natural beauty. Known as “the land of roasted geese” and “the homeland of overseas Chinese,” Jieyang boasts a unique blend of dialect, customs, and traditions. From historical landmarks to breathtaking natural attractions, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.

List of Places to Visit in Jieyang

No visit to Jieyang is complete without exploring its popular attractions. Here’s a list of must-visit places you should add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Chaoshan Cultural Park: Explore the cultural heritage of Jieyang and experience the local customs and traditions through interactive exhibits and folk performances.
  • The Jieyang Palace: Built during the Song Dynasty (960–1279), the palace is known for its exquisite architecture and stunning gardens.
  • The Wenfeng Tower: Built during the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279), the tower is an iconic landmark of Jieyang and offers stunning panoramic views of the city.
  • The Huangqishan Residence: Once home to a wealthy salt merchant, the residence is an outstanding example of traditional Lingnan architecture.

Natural Attractions of Jieyang: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Lianhua Mountain: Explore the scenic beauty of Jieyang with a hike to the Lianhua Mountain. With its lush greenery, fresh air, and breathtaking views, it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
  • The Linggu Temple: Located at the foot of the Linggu Hill, the temple boasts stunning architecture and tranquil surroundings.
  • The Huangqi Mountain: Home to the stunningly beautiful Huangqi waterfall, this mountain offers an abundance of hiking trails and scenic views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jieyang

Jieyang is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an extensive network of excellent hiking and biking trails. If you want to explore the beauty of the city up close, here are some popular routes you should consider:

  • The Lianhua Mountain Hiking Trail
  • The Huangqi Mountain Hiking Trail
  • The Jinxian Brook Hiking Trail
  • The Ye Chau Wan Biking Trail

Best Things to Do in Jieyang: Activities and Tours

In addition to its stunning natural and cultural attractions, Jieyang has an array of activities and tours that you don’t want to miss. Here are some of the best things to experience in the city:

  • Attend a Traditional Chinese Wedding: Experience the traditional Chinese wedding ceremony, complete with elegant costumes, music, and customs.
  • Sample Local Delights: Jieyang has a rich culinary tradition, and visitors can immerse themselves in the local food scene by sampling signature dishes like roasted goose, beef balls, and Hakka-style tofu.
  • Explore Unique Shopping Streets: Jieyang is known for its vibrant traditional markets and shopping streets. Discover hidden gems and souvenirs while browsing local shops and stores.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jieyang

If you’re planning a one-week trip to Jieyang, here’s an itinerary that will help you make the most of your time in the city:

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore Chaoshan Cultural Park and Wenfeng Tower
Day 2 Visit Jieyang Palace and Huangqishan Residence
Day 3 Hike to the Lianhua Mountain and explore Linggu Temple
Day 4 Visit the Huangqi Mountain and waterfall
Day 5 Attend a traditional Chinese wedding
Day 6 Go shopping along Shantou’s bustling Shandong Shopping
Day 7 Head out on a food crawl and try traditional Jieyang dishes.

Food and Drink Scene of Jieyang

Jieyang has a rich culinary tradition with a unique blend of Chaoshan, Hakka, and Cantonese cuisines. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages that you shouldn’t miss:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Roasted Goose: Succulent meat roasted to perfection with a crispy skin, roasted goose is a signature dish of Jieyang and is a must-try for any foodie.
  • Fish Balls: Made with fresh fish, these delicious meatballs are chewy and bursting with flavor.
  • Hakka-style Tofu: Made with fermented tofu and braised pork, this tasty dish is a Jieyang specialty.

Local Beverages

  • Chaoshan Tea: Also known as gongfu tea, Chaoshan Tea is a famous local beverage with a rich history, vibrant culture, and unique brewing techniques.
  • Jieyang Rice Wine: Made with selected glutinous rice, this aromatic rice wine has a slightly sweet taste and a touch of acidity.

Where to Stay in Jieyang: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly accommodations, Jieyang offers a wide range of options to suit all needs and preferences. Here are some top-rated places to stay in the city:

  • Jinjiang Inn: Known for its exceptional hospitality and modern amenities, Jinjiang Inn is one of the top-rated hotels in Jieyang.
  • Jingdi Hostel: With its cozy atmosphere and warm ambiance, Jingdi Hostel is a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Shangdong Business Hotel: Located in the city center, Shangdong Business Hotel offers easy access to all major attractions in Jieyang.

What to Buy in Jieyang: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs or local products to bring back home, Jieyang offers an array of options. Here are some things you shouldn’t miss:

  • Lianhua Tea: This fragrant tea is a Jieyang specialty and makes a perfect souvenir for tea lovers.
  • Hakka-style Rice Wine: Made from Chinese herbs, this flavorful rice wine is a local favorite and perfect for gifting.
  • Ceramic Tea Sets: Jieyang is known for its exquisite ceramic tea sets, and you can find them in various stores and markets throughout the city.

Local Culture and Customs of Jieyang

Jieyang has a unique blend of dialect, customs, and traditions with strong influence from the Hakka culture. The people of Jieyang are famous for their hospitality and warmth, and visitors are often welcomed with open arms. Some of the local customs include:

  • Chinese Wedding Customs: Traditional Chinese weddings are still widely held in Jieyang, and visitors can get a glimpse into the unique customs and rituals involved.
  • Hakka Cultural Traditions: Jieyang has a large Hakka population and visitors can explore the rich cultural heritage through food, architecture, and customs.

Best Time to Visit Jieyang

The best time to visit Jieyang is in the autumn months of September to November when the weather is mild and pleasant. Spring (March to May) is also a good time to visit, as the city is covered in blooming flowers and trees. Avoid visiting during the summer months when temperatures can reach as high as 38°C (100°F).

Do’s and Don’ts of Jieyang

Do:

  • Try the Local Food: Jieyang is known for its delicious food, and visitors should enjoy them as much as possible.
  • Get to Know the Local customs and Traditions: Jieyang has a unique culture with many traditions, and visitors should take the time to learn about them.
  • Bring cash: Some markets and stores only accept cash, so be sure to have enough on hand.

Don’t:

  • Overwhelm the locals: Jieyang is a relatively small city, and some attractions can get quite crowded. Be mindful of the locals’ privacy and personal space.
  • Haggle too much: Haggle with respect and recognize that the vendors’ livelihood depends on the sale.

Safety and Health

Safety in Jieyang

Jieyang is a relatively safe city for tourists, but it’s always important to take proper safety precautions. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Avoid carrying large sums of cash or valuable items:
  • Stay alert in crowded areas:
  • Be mindful of your surroundings and belongings:

Health in Jieyang

Make sure to take the necessary precautions when traveling to China:

  • Consult your doctor:
  • Bring necessary medication:
  • Be wary of street food:

Getting to Jieyang: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Jieyang

Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport is the main airport that serves Jieyang City and its surrounding areas. It’s located about 20 km from the city center, making it easy to get to the city by bus, taxi or subway.

Bus Stations Near Jieyang

Jieyang Bus Station is located on West Jiefang Road in the city center, and there are regular buses that connect Jieyang to neighboring cities like Shantou, Guangzhou, and Xiamen.

Other Options

Jieyang also has a subway system that connects to many parts of the city, making it easy to travel around via public transportation.

How to Get Around in Jieyang

Getting around Jieyang is easy, with an extensive network of public transportation options. Buses, taxis, and subways are readily available, and most signs and schedules are in both Chinese and English. If you prefer to explore on foot, many of the popular attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Where to Go Next from Jieyang: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Jieyang is surrounded by many popular destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some nearby cities and excursions you might be interested in:

  • Shantou: Explore the rich maritime history, bustling markets, and stunning coastal views of Shantou, located just an hour’s drive from Jieyang.
  • Chaozhou: Known for its rich artistic heritage and unique architectural style, Chaozhou is a must-visit destination for cultural enthusiasts.
  • Xiamen: Located across the straits from Taiwan, Xiamen is a bustling city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and stunning beaches.

Conclusion

Jieyang is a hidden gem of South China, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its scenic mountain trails to its bustling markets and culinary traditions, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your trip to Jieyang and given you a glimpse into the wonders of this charming city.

Jinxian Gate in night Jinxian Gate in night