Zhanjiang Must-Visit! 11 Attractions Hide the Century-Old Charm and Coastal Romance of "Guangzhouwan"

Zhanjiang Must-Visit! 11 Attractions Hide the Century-Old Charm and Coastal Romance of "Guangzhouwan" At the southernmost tip of mainland China lies a city known as "Guangzhouwan" — Zhanjiang. Half of it is the historical accumulation of a century-old commercial port, and the other half is the coastal comfort of blue seas and skies. These 11 attractions reveal its most captivating side, so don’t miss them when you visit! 1. Chikan Old Street As a "living fossil" of Zhanjiang’s century-old commercial port, every step here tells a story. The carved Lingnan arcade buildings, Southeast Asian-style colonnades, and French-style pointed roofs intertwine. The former site of the Guangzhouwan Chamber of Commerce, Jingyuan, and the old pier quietly narrate the past. As a filming location for "The Bad Kids," walking on the old street’s stone slabs feels like stepping into the drama, and every snapshot looks like a vintage masterpiece. 2. Jinsha Bay The "City Living Room of Zhanjiang" lives up to its name! Here, the romantic idea of "the city by the sea, the sea within the city" is realized. The azure sea meets white sandy beaches, perfect for cycling and water sports during the day, and for kids to dig sand and splash in the waves. At night, neon lights brighten the bustling commercial area by the beach, where you can enjoy the sea breeze while strolling through the night market—pure relaxation. 3. China-Australia Friendship Garden Built to commemorate the sister city relationship between China and Australia, this coastal park perfectly blends Australian style with the beauty of Zhanjiang Bay. The garden is lush with greenery and winding paths. From the sea-view platform, you can gaze at the magnificent ocean. The numerous artistic landscape features make it ideal for atmospheric photo shoots or quietly watching the sea in a peaceful corner. 4. Seaside Graffiti Houses A "Macaron Fairy Tale Village" hidden by the sea! The exterior walls of the houses are painted in fresh pastel colors like pink, blue, and yellow, paired with creative graffiti featuring ocean and fishing boat themes, making every photo Instagram-worthy. The fishing village’s original charm remains, with drying fishing nets and old fishing boats docked nearby, creating a vintage and healing atmosphere. 5. Fishing Port Park A "microcosm" of Zhanjiang’s fishing culture, located next to Zhanjiang Port, centered around fishing boats, lighthouses, and mangroves. Strolling through the park, you’ll see replica fishing boat sculptures and playful ocean-themed facilities. In the distance, the busy fishing port bustles with activity. Enjoying the sea breeze while watching boats come and go is full of maritime cultural life. 6. New Maritime City A "maritime landmark" transformed from a giant 10,000-ton ship, once a popular spot in Zhanjiang during the 1990s. Though it now shows signs of wear, it exudes a retro industrial vibe. The rusted hull and unique maritime structure make it a treasure trove for photography enthusiasts seeking niche scenery, with a strong nostalgic feel. 7. Seaside Park One of the oldest coastal parks in downtown Zhanjiang, located in the heart of Xiashan District, offering tranquility amid the bustle. The park is shaded by trees, blending sea views with garden scenery. It features pavilions for rest and facilities suitable for family fun. You can watch the sunrise in the morning and enjoy the sunset glow in the evening. It’s a favorite spot for locals to walk and relax daily. 8. Former French Consulate of Guangzhouwan A "witness" to Zhanjiang’s colonial history, this century-old French building is dignified and elegant, with distinctive red walls and white windows. As a protected cultural relic of Zhanjiang, it now serves as a cultural exhibition venue. Inside, you can learn about the history of the Guangzhouwan period through historical materials, combining architectural beauty with historical value. 9. Xiashan Catholic Church Built in 1900, this century-old church is Zhanjiang’s most representative French-style religious building. Its Gothic spire, stained glass, and exquisite reliefs stand out even more against the backdrop of tropical plants. It remains a place of worship today, quiet and solemn. History and architecture lovers must come to experience this solemnity that spans over a century. 10. Zhanjiang Museum If you want to understand Zhanjiang, start here! The collection covers local history, marine culture, and folk customs. Through artifacts, photos, and scene restorations, it showcases the millennium-long changes of the Leizhou Peninsula. Whether tracing the past of "Guangzhouwan" or learning about Zhanjiang’s folk characteristics, you’ll find answers here. 11. Cunjin Bridge Park Zhanjiang’s "red memory landmark," symbolizing the meaning of "an inch of land is worth an inch of gold," carrying the history of the 1898 anti-French struggle by the people of Zhanjiang. The park contains the Cunjin Bridge, anti-French memorial statues, and other historical relics. It is also a beautiful city park with lush greenery and clear lakes, frequently visited by locals for morning exercise and walks, combining historical significance with leisure functions.