Kaiping & Taishan Diaolou and Villages Tour

Guangzhou, China
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Duration9h - 10h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesCantonese, English, Chinese
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Kaiping is known as the hometown of overseas Chinese in Southern China. Its Diaolou towers, built from the Ming Dynasty to the early 20th century, showcase stunning architecture and cultural history. Today, some Diaolous and gardens like Li Yuan (Li Garden), Zilicun, and Majanlong have become well-known tourist attractions. Perfect for: tourists seeking a classic, picturesque, and accessible Kaiping experience.

Taishan is a city rich in history and overseas Chinese heritage, offering a deeper look into local architecture, village life, and historic landmarks. About 500 Diaolous remain, many in authentic, lesser-visited villages. Perfect for: travelers seeking heritage, historical architecture, and authentic village life, especially those interested in ancestral roots.

Options

Kaiping Diaolous Tours

Duration: 9 hours
① - ②- ③: Tourists need to pay for the entrance tickets to two scenic spots in this itinerary: Kaiping Zili Village and Liyuan Garden.
Private Car
Pickup included

Taishan/Toishan Village Tour

Duration: 10 hours
④- ⑤- ⑥- ⑦- ⑧: There are no ticket-charging scenic spots on the Taishan route.
Private Car
Pickup included

What's included

  • Gasoline
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Additional driver (when there are 4 or more people)
  • Professional tour guide
  • Parking Fees
  • Admission Tickets
  • Lunch
  • Optional hot spring tickets are 35 RMB per person.

What to expect

  1. Yinglong Lou
    2h
    After a scenic two-hour drive from Guangzhou, we will begin our adventure by visiting one of the oldest Diaolou in Kaiping, a stunning example of traditional architecture. Following our exploration, we’ll treat your taste buds to a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, featuring the renowned Claypot Eel Rice and flavorful Steamed Minced Pork Balls. Join us for this delightful culinary experience that perfectly complements our cultural journey!
  2. Watchtower Group of Zili Village
    1h 30m · Admission ticket not included
    Explore the captivating Diaolous in Zili Village, where you'll discover the intriguing stories and rich history behind these architectural marvels. Immerse yourself in the local culture and gain a deeper appreciation for the significance of these unique structures during our visit!
  3. Kaiping Garden
    1h · Admission ticket not included
    A beautiful private garden built by returning overseas Chinese. Stroll through the serene courtyards, admire the intricate pavilions, ponds, and rockeries, and discover the rich cultural stories behind this classic Lingnan-style garden.
  4. Taishan
    1h
    Discover the heritage of Taishan, a city that has long drawn overseas Chinese back to their roots. Explore the Qing-era historical buildings within the old city walls, rebuilt as arcade-style structures while retaining the original street textures.
  5. Taishan
    1h
    Continue to a nearby village to explore an impressive watchtower built in the early 1920s by returning overseas Chinese, incorporating Western-inspired design elements. Take in panoramic views from the rooftop and explore the interiors to feel the historical ambiance firsthand.
  6. Taishan
    30m
    Visit the former harbor where Taishan locals embarked on overseas voyages, and learn about the history of silver remittances and the Chinese diaspora from this region.
  7. Mei's Grand Courtyard
    1h
    The second stop is Mei's Grand Courtyard, jump out to explore the historic old architectures with us. This is a nice stop to absorb some culture and history of overseas Chinese building nice complex back home to families and honoring heritage & traditions.
  8. Taishan Hot Spring
    1h · Admission ticket not included
    For a relaxing end to the day, you may enjoy a natural sulfur hot spring, cherished by locals for decades. Originally a village bathhouse and renovated in the 1980s with overseas donations, this hot spring provides a soothing and cultural experience. Please bring your swimsuit and towel if you wish to include this optional activity—advance notice is required.

Additional information

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From
$260.00 per person
Check availability & book
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
Operated by Janvi Off The Beaten Path Tours · Booked through Viator
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From
$260.00 per person
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