Chaozhou and Shantou form the beating heart of the Chaoshan region—a coastal enclave in eastern Guangdong where centuries-old merchant traditions, exquisite handicrafts, and an unmatched culinary obsession define daily life.

Often referred to collectively as Chaoshan (along with Jieyang), this distinct cultural region operates at its own rhythm, separate from the Cantonese dominance of the Pearl River Delta. The area is served by Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport (SWA) and is well-connected by high-speed rail. Chaozhou is the historical and cultural anchor, a city where time seems to slow down among ancient city walls, ornate ancestral halls, and the meditative practice of Gongfu tea. Shantou, by contrast, is the energetic treaty port—a 19th-century boomtown defined by its historic Qilou (arcade) architecture and its history as a global trading hub for the Teochew diaspora.

The true religion of the Chaoshan region, however, is food. It is widely considered one of the pinnacles of Chinese gastronomy. The focus here is on the absolute freshness of ingredients, particularly seafood and beef. A trip to Chaoshan is incomplete without experiencing a traditional Chaoshan Beef Hotpot, where a freshly butchered cow is divided into highly specific, meticulously sliced cuts, quickly blanched in a clear, nourishing broth. Beyond beef, the region is famous for its delicate braised goose (Lu’e), complex seafood dishes, and endless varieties of sweet and savory snacks.

Weather in Chaozhou & Shantou

The Chaoshan region has a subtropical monsoon climate, meaning it is generally warm, humid, and rainy. The best time to visit is during the autumn and early winter (October to December) when the weather is mild, dry, and comfortable, perfect for wandering the historic streets. Spring is warm but brings the “Plum Rains” (constant drizzle), while summer (June to September) is hot, very humid, and prone to typhoons moving in off the South China Sea.

Transportation

Chaoshan is highly connected. Jieyang Chaoshan Airport serves the entire region. The high-speed rail network is the most efficient way to travel between the cities and to the rest of Guangdong, with major stations like Chaoshan Station and Shantou Station. Traveling between Chaozhou and Shantou is easy via frequent intercity buses or high-speed trains (which take less than 30 minutes). Within the cities, taxis and ride-hailing apps are the most convenient way to navigate, particularly for reaching specific, off-the-beaten-path restaurants.