Traveling Through Time: Encountering the Past and Present of Queen's Hotel in Shantou

Although I've visited Chaoshan many times, each trip was always rushed. This time, taking advantage of the holiday before the Dragon Boat Festival, I finally had the chance to slow down and immerse myself in the culture and cuisine of this port city. A visit to Shantou naturally calls for a stop at Xiaogongyuan (Little Park). Here, it feels like stepping back in time to an era of bustling prosperity. In this area, Chaoshan culture blends seamlessly with Nanyang (Southeast Asian) and Western influences, creating a unique commercial port charm. This trip also allowed me to experience a hidden gem of a hotel that merges history with modernity—Queen's Hotel. This Baroque-inspired arcade building in a fan shape inevitably reminds one of Shanghai's Wukang Building. As historic landmarks of their respective cities, both have witnessed the passage of time and urban transformations. Despite enduring a century of changes, they stand tall as integral parts of the cityscape. The hotel's design draws inspiration from Shantou's rich cultural heritage as an old port. The designer distilled the essence of Xiaogongyuan's arcade architecture, traditional intangible cultural heritage, the historical waves of port opening, and local lifestyles into core cultural symbols. From the hotel room balcony, you can even capture a shot of Xiaogongyuan, and if you're lucky, you might catch a performance of Yingge dance. Staying in this century-old arcade building offers an immersive experience of the old port, with the most iconic landmarks right at your doorstep. It’s like traveling back to a golden era, creating truly precious memories. The restaurant on the fifth floor is exceptionally beautiful, designed with Nanyang (Southeast Asian) flair. Both the interior and outdoor spaces are incredibly photogenic. As the evening glow appears, quietly soaking in the atmosphere here is simply magical. The hotel's service is exceptionally attentive. Breakfast offers four styles: Chinese, Western, Chaoshan, and even a congee hot pot base, making it hard to choose. From the moment you step into the lobby, you're greeted with warm and professional hospitality. The staff are always ready to assist, and every interaction is filled with pleasant surprises and warmth, showcasing their professionalism in every detail. This trip to Shantou allowed me to experience the city's unique blend of tradition and modernity. Beyond its delicious food, there’s a profound cultural heritage waiting to be explored.