Exploring Jiangmen: timeless towns and coastal bliss

Travelog

Forget what you think you know about Guangdong’s mega-cities. While everyone else is elbowing through crowds in Shenzhen or Guangzhou, Jiangmen is quietly carving out its own niche: a delightful mix of old-world charm, cinematic streets, and beaches that haven’t yet been Instagrammed to death (yet).

Chikan Ancient Town: a journey through time

Our adventure in Chikan Ancient Town, a living museum of Qiaoxiang (Overseas Chinese) culture. Stepping into Chikan Ancient Town feels like entering a beautifully preserved film set from the early 20th century. Established during the Qing Dynasty, this historic enclave was shaped by overseas Chinese who returned with architectural inspirations from abroad, blending Western and traditional Chinese styles into a unique streetscape. The result is a mesmerising collection of arcaded buildings, ornate verandas, and grand facades that exude timeless elegance.

Tixi Road is a standout feature, stretching 300 meters and lined with over 600 well-preserved buildings that radiate an unmistakable 1920s style. This vintage glamour has transformed it into a popular filming location, earning the nickname “movie street” and a distinctly European flair. It’s no surprise that it has become a backdrop for period dramas like Let The Bullets Fly and The Grandmasters.

I hopped on the Ding-Ding Tram, the slowest yet most charming way to tour the town. I also peeked into the Guan Clan Library and Situ Clan Library, built by prosperous overseas families. These libraries house rare books, historical artifacts, and intricate wood carvings, offering a glimpse into the scholarly traditions of the past.

As evening falls, the town comes alive with vibrant performances. A fire show illuminates the night sky, while the rhythmic drums of a lion dance echo through the streets—a dazzling display of tradition and artistry.

No visit to Chikan is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Chikan tofu pudding, a crispy yet silky pan-fried snack, is a must-try, as is Taishan eel rice, where tender eel is steamed with fragrant jasmine rice.

Just a short drive from Chikan lies the Kaiping Diaolou Cultural Tourism Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring over 1,800 fortified watchtowers. These striking structures, built primarily in the early 20th century, served as defensive homes for villagers and stand as a testament to the region’s unique history. Walking among these towering edifices, some adorned with intricate Baroque and Gothic flourishes, feels like uncovering a forgotten chapter of China’s past.

Naqin Peninsula: because beaches > meetings

After immersing myself in history, a two-hour journey brings me to the Naqin Peninsula, a breathtaking stretch of coastline with rocky cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden coves. The seaside boardwalk leads me past rock formations with whimsical names like “Buddha’s Foot” and “Moon-Gazing Rabbit.”

To end the day perfectly, head to Lover’s Bay, a secluded spot on the peninsula’s western tip where sunsets bathe the sky in gold and crimson. The soothing sound of waves creates an idyllic backdrop for reflection or enjoying a freshly caught seafood feast. Savor local specialties like steamed mantis shrimp, garlic-buttered crab, and oyster omelettes at a rustic beachfront eatery, where the ocean breeze enhances every bite.

So why Jiangmen? Because sometimes we want a trip that’s equal parts culture, eye candy, and eating your body weight in seafood. Jiangmen is that rare place where history hasn’t been polished into boredom, beaches remain serene, and every meal feels like a cheat day.

By Grace Yu, Jiangmen

Jiangmen KEY STATS

GDP: RMB402.2 billion (2023)

GDP per capita: RMB83,000 (2023)

Population: 4.82 million (2023)

Not to miss:

Taishan eel rice, Chikan bean curd, and fresh seafood