From Xiamen, the Chaoshan region is just 1.5 hours by high-speed train — yet it feels like a different world of ancient towns, world-class food and coastal islands. Hengtong Holiday (+86 137 9925 4912) has been operating Xiamen tours for 13 years and signs direct contracts with Chaoshan suppliers. Here's our 5-day pure-play plan.
Day 1 — Xiamen to Dongshan Island
After arrival in Xiamen, drive about 2.5 hours to Dongshan Island, the setting of the film Left Ear. Stroll the crescent Nanmen Bay with its colourful houses and visit Wenkong Temple. Stay at a sea-view B&B.
Day 2 — Dongshan to Nan'ao Island
Morning drive along the stunning Sufeng Mountain coastal road. Cross the 11 km Nan'ao Bridge to Guangdong's only island county. Swim at Qing'ao Bay ("Oriental Hawaii"), see the Tropic of Cancer tower and catch sunset at the red-and-white Sancongya Lighthouse.
Day 3 — Nan'ao Island
Visit floating fish farms to see abalone and seaweed cultivation, feed seagulls and tour the General's Mansion, Gold & Silver Island and Song Well. Dinner is a lavish seafood feast.
Day 4 — Nan'ao to Chaozhou
Drive to Chaozhou, a 1,600-year-old historic city. Walk across Guangji Bridge (one of China's four ancient bridges), wander the 23 memorial archways of Paifang Street and visit Kaiyuan Temple. At 8 p.m. the free Guangji Bridge light show illuminates the river — don't miss it.
Day 5 — Chaozhou, Shantou & Return
Free morning for snacks. Lunch is a proper Chaoshan beef hotpot: paper-thin slices of fresh beef swished in bone broth and dipped in satay sauce. Continue to Shantou's Small Park heritage district before transferring back to Xiamen.
Price & Inclusions
From RMB 2,680 per person, including 4 nights' boutique hotel, private A/C vehicle, all entrance tickets, 4 breakfasts and 6 meals (seafood feast and beef hotpot included), English/Chinese guide and travel-agency insurance. Zero shopping and zero optional fees are written into the contract, with RMB 2,000 per person compensation for any violation.
Book by phone/WeChat: +86 137 9925 4912. Groups of 2–6 only — no strangers sharing your vehicle.