Explore the Kaiping Diaolou and discover the architectural wonders of East meets West

**A guide to exploring the Kaiping Diaolou after the 2025 Lunar New Year | Discover a world heritage site and savor the flavors of the Lunar New Year in the hometown of overseas Chinese** **1. Destination Overview** The Kaiping Diaolou, located in Jiangmen, Guangdong, is China's first world cultural heritage site with the theme of "overseas Chinese culture". More than 1,800 diaolou are scattered among the rural villages, combining Chinese and Western architectural aesthetics, and are known as an "open-air architectural museum". There are fewer tourists after the Lunar New Year, and the scenic area still retains the decorations of the intangible cultural heritage of the Lunar New Year (such as giant "Fu" characters and silver letter banners), making it an ideal choice for off-peak travel. **2. Practical Information at a Glance** 1. **Ticket Prices** - Single attraction ticket: CNY 60–80 per person (e.g. Zili Village, Majianglong); - Package ticket: CNY 100–150 (includes 3–4 core attractions, recommended for first-time visitors). *Tips: Students and seniors can enjoy a half-price discount with valid ID. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance on the official platform to avoid queuing on site.* 2. **Transportation Guide** - **From Guangzhou**: Take a high-speed train to Kaiping South Station (approx. 1.5 hours, ticket price approx. CNY 80), then take a shuttle bus or taxi (approx. CNY 30) to the scenic area; self-driving takes approx. 2 hours, navigate to "Zili Village Diaolou Cluster". - **Transportation within the scenic area**: The diaolou clusters are far apart, so it is recommended to charter a car (approx. CNY 200 per day) or rent an electric bike (available in some scenic areas). **3. Recommended Must-Visit Attractions** 1. **Zili Village Diaolou Cluster** 15 diaolou are scattered among rice fields and ponds, with Mingshi Lou and Yunhuan Lou being the most representative. Climb to the top to overlook the picturesque rural landscape. The best time to take photos is in the early morning or at dusk. 2. **Majianglong Scenic Area** Praised by UN experts as "the most beautiful village in the world", 7 diaolou are hidden in the bamboo forest, making it suitable for hiking and exploration. After the Lunar New Year, the bamboo forest is lush and tranquil. 3. **Tangkou Old Market Cultural and Creative Block** The avant-garde bookstore transformed from an old granary, the Diaomin Tribe Homestay, and the night light show "Song of the River" are not to be missed, making it a perfect place for young people to check in. **4. Pitfalls and Solutions** 1. **Pain point: The scenic area is scattered and transportation is inconvenient** - Solution: Prioritize products that include shuttle buses in the package, or carpool with fellow travelers; avoid the midday sun and arrange your itinerary reasonably (e.g. Zili Village in the morning, Majianglong in the afternoon). 2. **Pain point: Limited dining options and high prices** - Solution: We recommend the "Qiaoxiang Renjia" restaurant in Tangkou Town, where you can try Kaiping beef and pineapple rice for CNY 50 per person; bring your own snacks for remote attractions. 3. **Pain point: Accommodation prices rise during peak season** - Solution: Book a homestay in Tangkou Town in advance (e.g. "Diaomin Tribe", approx. CNY 300 per night), or choose a chain hotel in Kaiping City (e.g. Lavande Hotel, from CNY 200). **5. Special Experiences** - **Continuation of the intangible cultural heritage of the Lunar New Year**: After the Lunar New Year, you can still enjoy the silver letter-themed decorations and participate in bamboo weaving intangible cultural heritage handicraft activities (Tangkou Cultural and Creative Base). - **New night tour experience**: The Qiaohai Huayun Block offers entertainment activities such as bonfire dancing and water slides at night, making it suitable for family visitors. **6. Summary Tips** - **Budget reference**: CNY 600–800 per person for 2 days and 1 night (including transportation, tickets, food, and accommodation). - **Clothing recommendations**: Lightweight sneakers (many cobblestone paths), bring a light jacket to protect against temperature differences. - **Best time to visit**: February to March, when the rapeseed flowers are in full bloom, and the diaolou and flower fields complement each other. The Kaiping Diaolou is not only an architectural miracle but also carries the nostalgia of overseas Chinese for a hundred years. After the Lunar New Year, there are fewer people and beautiful scenery. Take advantage of the early spring and embark on a journey of cultural and natural healing!