Guangdong Surrounding Tours｜Chikan Ancient Town with Full Republic of China Era Vibes

Escape the city this weekend and head to Chikan Ancient Town, where the arcade buildings will move you to tears 😭 It's 100 times more enjoyable than expected, and I immediately renewed my Republic of China Young Lady Experience Card! 🚂【Must-Do Activities】 ✔️ Ancient Town Mini Train: Only 20 yuan for the whole ride, super cost-effective! Leisurely pass through the arcade streets, the breeze carries the scent of old times. Be sure to sit on the right side! The view locks onto the river and the full arcade panorama, every snap looks like a movie frame 🎬 ✔️ Overseas Chinese Hometown Exhibition Hall: Free entry! The old photos and antique furniture inside are very immersive, instantly letting you grasp Chikan’s century-old story as an overseas Chinese hometown. After visiting, you’ll better appreciate the architectural aesthetics here. ✔️ Diaolou Viewing Platform: Climb up to overlook the entire ancient town, the continuous blue tiles are stunning! At dusk, the sunset shines on the gun holes of the diaolou, creating amazing light and shadow effects. 🍚【Foodie Must-Try Local Flavors】 ✅ Eel Rice: Any old shop in the alleys won’t disappoint! The eel meat is tender, and the rice soaks up all the savory oil. I ate two bowls without getting tired. ✅ Tofu Puffs: Freshly fried, crispy outside and tender inside, dipped in garlic chili sauce, the warm aroma is super comforting. ✅ Aged Tangerine Peel Lemon Tea: Made with local aged tangerine peel, sweet and sour to refresh your palate. Perfect for a break after exploring, and the glass bottle can be kept as a souvenir. 📸【Photo Tips for Great Shots】 ▫️ Outfit: Light-colored long dress + canvas shoes/Mary Janes, paired with a straw bag for full Republic of China gentle vibes (avoid bright colors that clash with the arcade tones). ▫️ Spots: The arcade corridor at the entrance of the Overseas Chinese Hometown Exhibition Hall, the riverside wooden boardwalk, and the mini train station. The backlight from 3-5 pm is perfect for photos. ▫️ Pro Tip: Use props! Buy a local sugar painting or aged tangerine peel for more natural interactive shots. 💡【Practical Tips】 ▪️ Time: Recommend spending half a day, arrive around 2 pm, explore until evening to see the night view. The arcade buildings lit up at night are even more charming than during the day. ▪️ Transportation: 1.5 hours by car from Guangzhou with convenient parking; you can also take the high-speed train to Kaiping South Station, then a 15-minute taxi ride. ▪️ Avoid Pitfalls: Don’t buy overpriced souvenirs at the scenic area entrance. The aged tangerine peel and fermented bean curd in the alleys are the authentic local goods. I really love this kind of historic yet non-commercialized ancient town. Walking on the bluestone streets, listening to Cantonese opera from the arcades, it feels like time slows down.