[2025 Kaiping Attraction] Travel Guide for Kaiping Diaolou (Updated Mar)

Kaiping Diaolou is a building left by overseas Chinese in the 1920s and 1930s. It combines living and defensive functions and is a precious world heritage. The main features of Kaiping Diaolou include: - Mixed style: The architectural style is wild with delicacy, mixed with Chinese and Western styles, which is a major feature of Kaiping Diaolou. - Combination of local and Western: After two anti-bandit operations, the Kaiping area has been relatively stable, and the appearance of cottage-style buildings is also a combination of local and Western. - Decorations reflect the changes in the times: The decorations of the buildings reflect the changes in the times and also declare the new thoughts and interests of the building owners.

#MyTripVlog #chinatravel #tripblazers #china #unescoworldheritage #chinatravel #urbanexplorer #kaiping #guangdong Kaiping Diaolou and Villages is located in Kaiping, Jiangmen Guangdong China. It's a UNEsCO World Heritage Site. There are 3 important buildings in the village. The communal towers were built by several families and used as temporary refuge, residential towers built by individual rich families and used as fortified residences, and watch towers. Transportation Take Tangkou - Magang Special Line from Kaiping downtown area and get off at Zilicun. From Shenzhen : Take a long distance bus or provincial bus from Louhu CoCh Station to Kaiping directly. The bus schedules are 10:50, 14:55, 16:25 and 19:50. Ticket Fare: ¥130 Place name: Yangkuo World Heritage Corridor Tangkou Liyuan Kaiping Jingmen Guangdong

Kaiping is nicknamed 'the home of overseas Chinese' as huge numbers of emigrants left this area beginning in the late nineteenth century. Many settled abroad and Taishanese, the local language, is still spoken around the world. Others returned home with both wealth and inspiration. They imported what were then new western inventions like flush toilets and radios and built houses in their home villages inspired by the architecture they'd seen in Europe and the Americas. The most distinctive of their buildings are diaolou, fortified towers crowned with ostentatious baroque or neoclassical penthouses. They served both as residences and defence against bandits. They can be found in various places, but especially in Kaiping, where they are recognised as a Unesco world heritage site. Many are scattered singly or in pairs throughout the countryside but there are a few diaolou clusters where you can see many in a small area and even climb up a few of them, as well as seeing the Republic of China period furnishings inside. The surroundings are very rural, not much changed a century after these eccentric towers were raised. Kaiping is an easy day- or weekend-trip from Guangzhou. From Kaiping Railway Station it's easiest to get a taxi to one of the diaolou clusters. Be sure to taste the local speciality baozaifan, rice cooked in a clay pot until the bottom gets crusty, served with various toppings. #leaveyourmark #urbanexplorer #lightthecity #kaiping #taishan #jiangmen #guangdong #diaolou #architecture #historicallandmarks #unesco

Kaiping 开平，this is how does Guangdong small provincial city looks like. Mostly people arrive here to take buses and immediately transfer to Dialou scenic spots located in several villages around Kaiping city. Kaiping at a glance is very calm place where life is slow and peaceful existence. Good is typical Guangdong food but offered for lowest price. #holidayvacation#wintergetaway#staycation#tripinspired

It is time to say wow! Did you expect something like this in China? To introduce amazing Dialou scattered in villages around Kaiping city is my pleasure! This miracle you can face in Guangdong countryside. Dialou is the type of buildings built by Chinese immigrants returnees, who had accumulated money and experience overseas and came back to the China, to their born place, the place of their life path origin and have built such non typical for Southern China building. The creations merged European, greec, Indian and Middle East styles. Than higher building is, than more rich the owner was. Lication: Zili village #holidayvacation#wintergetaway#staycation#tripinspired

In the vast fields of Kaiping, Guangdong, there are 1,833 towers scattered in large and small. The small European-style buildings are intertwined with traditional earthen houses in rural South China, creating a unique rural scene. Although Kaiping Diaolou has only a history of more than 100 years, it has witnessed the indomitable and vicissitudes of overseas Chinese for more than a century. Each of the towers is surrounded by a bitter past and full of the best truths in the world. On June 27, 2007, when the Kaiping Diaolou and the Village was selected for World Cultural Heritage in an undisputed manner in only 11 minutes, the World Heritage Conferences assessment concluded that it can The civilization or cultural tradition provides a unique and at least special testimony." Mingshilou is the best viewing platform in Zili Village. More than a dozen towers and wilderness are all in the eyes. Unfortunately, I am still a bit early, otherwise the green spaces below are all rapeseed~ overlooking the entire self-supporting village, time Changed everything, but it seems that it has not changed anything. Thanks for retaining these towers, so that we can understand the smoke of that era.

#chinatravelitinerary – China’s Forgotten Castles (A UNESCO-listed town with over 1,800 castle-like watchtowers! 🏰 Perfect for history lovers & unique architecture fans. ✨) 🗓️ Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Ancient Villages ✈️ Flight: Bangkok (BKK) → Guangzhou (CAN) (~3 hrs) 🚗 Drive to Kaiping (~2 hrs) 🏡 Stay at a Heritage Guesthouse 🏯 Afternoon: Visit the Famous Diaolou Towers 📸 These fortress-like mansions were built by overseas Chinese centuries ago! 🚶♀️ Explore Zili Village & Its Beautiful Stone Bridges 🍽️ Dinner: Traditional Cantonese Food 🐖 Braised Pork Belly with Plum Sauce 🥢 Steamed River Fish 🌙 Evening: Relax at a Rooftop Café Overlooking the Old Town 🗓️ Day 2: Secret Mansions & River Walks 🌞 Morning: Visit the Li Garden Mansion – A grand European-style house with Chinese courtyards! 🚶♀️ Afternoon: Walk Along the Tan River – Old piers, wooden boats & stunning reflections! 🚗 Drive back to Guangzhou & Fly Home ✈️

#chinatravelitinerary Kaiping Diaolou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Guangdong Province, China, is a fascinating collection of multi-story watchtowers built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These fortified towers, blending Chinese and Western architectural styles, were constructed by overseas Chinese to protect their villages from bandits and floods. Over 1,800 diaolou remain, with the most famous clusters in Zili Village, Majianglong, and Jinjiangli. Visitors can explore beautifully preserved towers, scenic countryside, and rich cultural heritage. A visit to Kaiping Diaolou offers a unique glimpse into the history, architecture, and stories of Chinese migration and innovation.

Kaiping Diaolou is the only "World Heritage" in Guangdong Province and is definitely worth a visit. But if you can only visit one of the many Diaolou scenic spots, then choose "Zili Village". Although it does not have the beauty of "Liyuan", it excels in being more numerous, larger and more comprehensive, concentrating on a variety of architectural styles such as watchtowers, villas and houses. It also has the typical village layout of the Siyi area, with a pond at the entrance of the village, a land temple in front of the village and a private school in the village. Overseas Chinese returning from all over the world have also brought back different architectural styles here. The most famous "Ming Shek Building" is the home of "Huang Si Lang" played by Chow Yun-fat in the movie "Let the Bullets Fly". Be sure to go up to the building to have a panoramic view. After visiting Zili Village, I felt very complicated. If it weren't for the pressure of life, who would be willing to leave their hometown? If it were a peaceful and prosperous time, who would confine themselves in a watchtower!

**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!

#chinaattractions Diaolou is a special kind of Chinese residential building, named after its shape like a bunker.The distribution of Diaolou in China is very regional, mainly in Sichuan Province, Guangdong Province and other places.Diaolou is not only an architectural form, but also the crystallization of history, culture and art. Historical background and geographical distribution Diaolou originated in the middle and late Ming Dynasty and flourished around the 1920s.In Kaiping, Guangdong, the number of pillboxes reached its heyday, with more than 3,000.These pillboxes are not only defensive facilities, but also symbols of local overseas Chinese culture.The background of the construction of the pillboxes is closely related to the local social turmoil and bandits. In order to protect the safety of their families, overseas Chinese use the wealth accumulated overseas to build pillboxes. Architectural features and style The pillbox has the characteristics of a multi-story building, which is much higher than ordinary residential buildings, making it easy to defend condescendingly.Its walls are thicker and stronger than ordinary houses, the windows are small and have iron grilles and sashes, and the outer iron plate windows and doors.The four corners of the upper part of the bunker are generally built with protruding cantilevered fully enclosed or semi-enclosed corner fort, commonly known as the ”swallow's nest". Forward and downward shooting holes are opened in the corner fort, which can condescendingly return fire to the enemy in the village. Cultural significance and protection status Kaiping Diaolou is not only a wonderful combination of Chinese and Western architectural art, but also has various functions such as defense, disaster prevention and residence.In 2007, ”Kaiping Diaolou and Ancient Village" was officially included in the "World Heritage List", becoming China's 35th World Heritage site.In order to protect these precious historical and cultural heritage, our government and Kaiping City have taken a series of measures to repair and protect, while actively developing Diaolou tourism resources to make it an important tourist attraction.

On the way to the Zili village, there were views of many Diaolou’s, and the scenes were exceedingly pleasing. The structures inside the Zili village serve as museums with introduction and illustration of the owner’s stories and lifestyle. The Zili Village showcases the largest, most concentrated clusters of Diaolou’s in Kaiping. There are 15 Diaolou’s in Zili Village, the largest of Diaolou cluster in any given village in Kaiping. Therefore, if you have limited time, certainly visit the Zili Village. Allow for at least 1.5 to 2 hours in Zili Village if you would like to climb these towers and take a thorough look at the museum exhibitions. As a vernacular architectural form, the Diaolou’s have existed since the Ming dynasty. The Chinese eclectic style is broad and accommodating in its practical expression. For example, the Diaolou’s feature a wide array of western architectural styles, including the renaissance, byzantine, gothic and more. The general features that define the Diaolou’s are their multistory tower-like structures incorporating western architectural elements, such as rooftop pavilions, elaborate window adornment, arcades, arches, balconies, and roman columns etc. In Kaiping, the popularlity of the Diaolou’s reached its height in the 19th and 20th centuries. Most of the buildings in the Zili Village were built in the 1920s to 1930s. The overseas Chinese returnees built these structures to protect and provide for their families in China. Needless to say, the construction of western style materials also required the technology of making these western features and incorporating them into the structures. Therefore the Diaolou’s also stand for the technology transfer that these overseas Chinese returnees have enabled, besides the funds, investment and the ideas that were introduced to the architecture industry of China. #kaiping #southchina #guangdong #jiangmen #diaolou #electicarchitecture #history #overseaschinese #历史古迹#世界遗产

|Zili Village: A Symphony of Diaolou and Rice Fields. Kaiping Zili Village is a paradise forgotten by time, a dreamland where diaolou and rice fields intertwine. Several uniquely shaped diaolou stand under the blue sky and white clouds, as if telling ancient stories. Looking at a golden rice field, the breeze blows, the rice waves roll, and the air is filled with the fragrance of rice. 📌Explore Diaolou, a Dialogue Across Time and Space The most striking feature of Zili Village is the more than 20 diaolou of various styles. They stand quietly in the rice fields like old men who have weathered the storm, guarding this land. Walking along the country road, the breeze blows on your face, and the sun shines on you, warm and comfortable. The first stop is Mingshi Tower, a diaolou with a magnificent exterior and exquisite interior decoration, like a small palace. Climb to the top floor, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the entire Zili Village, with rice fields, diaolou, and villages forming a beautiful pastoral picture. Next, visit Yunhuan Tower**, Yangxian Villa, and other diaolou, each with its own unique story, as if telling me about that turbulent history. 📌Cycling in the Rice Fields, Enjoying the Countryside** After visiting the diaolou, wander in the golden rice fields. The rice ears droop, as if nodding in greeting. The sound of frogs and the laughter of children in the distance form a beautiful pastoral symphony. Walk into the rice field, gently touch the rice ears, and feel the gift of nature. At this moment, it seems that all troubles have disappeared, leaving only inner peace and joy. 📍Taste the Food, Experience the Taste of Kaiping** Traveling is of course inseparable from food. You can taste authentic Kaiping food: eel rice, tofu corner, Magang rice noodles... Every dish makes me linger. Especially the eel rice, with distinct grains of rice and tender eel meat, paired with secret sauce, is simply irresistible. 📝Tips: * Best travel time: Spring and autumn, with pleasant climate and beautiful scenery. * Transportation: It is recommended to drive or take a high-speed train to Kaiping South Station, and then take a taxi to Zili Village. * Accommodation recommendation: You can choose to stay in a homestay near Zili Village to experience local life. * Food recommendation: Eel rice, tofu corner, Magang rice noodles, etc.

Kaiping, a city of mystery In the new year, the world unfolds before me, and I am eager to explore every corner of it. Among the many fascinating fields, travel is undoubtedly the flame that ignites my passion. Among the many travel destinations, Kaiping, a city with unique charm, attracts me like a magnet. Kaiping, a city with a rich history and unique charm, is like a hidden gem in the river of time, exuding an irresistible charm. I can't wait to step into this magical land and experience its unique Lingnan charm and the architectural aesthetics that blend Chinese and Western features. Diaolou is undoubtedly the most dazzling card of Kaiping. These century-old buildings carry the vicissitudes of time and memories of the past. I look forward to walking among the diaolou, gently touching the mottled walls with my hands, carefully examining the exquisite carvings, and feeling their ingenious construction. Each diaolou is like a silent history book, silently telling stories of the past and witnessing the changes of the times. In a trance, I seem to see the overseas Chinese who returned home in glory, building these solid and magnificent homes with love for their hometown and longing for a better life. In addition to diaolou, the rural scenery of Kaiping also fascinates me. Imagine walking into a quiet village, with green rice fields in front of you. The breeze blows, and the waves of rice rise and fall, with the fresh fragrance of rice filling the air. The ancient banyan trees are like huge green umbrellas, providing shade for the villagers. Under the trees, the villagers chat leisurely, their simple smiles warm and kind, making me deeply feel the tranquility and beauty of rural life. Every alley and stone bridge here is full of the breath of life, as if whispering those ordinary and touching stories. Kaiping's food culture also makes my mouth water. I can't wait to taste the authentic Kaiping claypot rice. The rice cooked in the claypot is distinct and fully absorbs the fresh aroma of the ingredients, with the golden and crispy crust at the bottom being the finishing touch. Just imagining it makes my appetite increase. There is also the unique Chikan tofu corner, with crispy and tender tofu paired with rich sauce, and a bite of it makes happiness bloom on the tip of the tongue. Of course, Kaiping also has many special snacks, each carrying the local food culture and customs, waiting for me to taste and explore one by one. This year, this trip to Kaiping is not just a simple trip, but a deep pursuit of history and culture, an indulgence in natural scenery, and a wonderful exploration of food. I look forward to stepping on this land, starting a unique and exciting journey, and gaining unforgettable memories.

Visit Kaiping Diaolou, Jiangmen on the Weekend 🥳 On a sunny weekend, I visited Kaiping Diaolou, a major historical and cultural site protected at the national level. After buying a ticket and entering the village, you can visit the exhibition hall to watch the introduction and then carefully tour the unique diaolou cluster to feel the strength of the wealthy overseas Chinese merchants in modern times. 🚗 Navigation: Kaiping Diaolou Cultural Tourism Area About 1.5 hours' drive from downtown Zhuhai 🎫 Single ticket: 78 per person

| Short trips around Guangdong. It's the end of the year, go to the countryside to breathe some fresh air and see the rice fields🌾 Drive 🚗 2 hours to Kaiping, where there are not only watchtowers and hot springs But also a weekend full of winter rhythm 💛 Market Life Festival 💛 Listen to music, enjoy a cup of hand-brewed coffee, and see exhibitions Go to the market, waste time, and create local life 🔆 "Local Life Creation - Market Life Festival" 📅 December 20 - December 22 📍 Tianxia Liangcang Square, Tangxi Road, Tangkou Town, Kaiping City

This weekend, I went to Jiangmen for a trip and spent a whole day in Kaiping to see the diaolou. Kaiping is a famous hometown of overseas Chinese, and the Kaiping diaolou, as a local characteristic building, was included in the World Heritage List in 2007. The Kaiping diaolou can be divided into two types of functions. The first type is for defense against thieves, mainly for defense, and the second type is more residential, similar to European style, with four or five floors. The Kaiping diaolou are mainly distributed in four scenic areas: Zili Village, Li Garden, Majianglong Village, and Jinjiangli Village. Let's talk about them one by one. Zili Village (p1-4) Zili Village is the most concentrated area of Kaiping diaolou, and the villa diaolou in p1 is a representative, with a European style and surrounded by rice fields. But I prefer the two buildings in p2. The buildings in p3/4 are smaller and larger, and all four are residential diaolou. Majianglong Village (p5-8) Majianglong Village is hidden between bamboo and trees, and the diaolou are more secluded. The diaolou in p6/7 are more focused on defense, while the diaolou in p5/8 are named "Lu" and are divided into five floors, with a living room and kitchen on the first floor, rooms on the second, third, and fourth floors, and a terrace and ancestral tablets on the fifth floor. Jinjiangli Village (p9/10) Jinjiangli Village has only three diaolou, but the Ruishi Building (p9) is very famous, not only because it is the largest diaolou in the area, but also because it is the lair of Huang Silang in the movie "Let the Bullets Fly," and is not to be missed. The diaolou next to it is also of European design. Li Garden (p11-14) Li Garden was originally a private garden of overseas Chinese, and the architectural style is slightly more luxurious than the diaolou mentioned above. Many of the buildings have light yellow exterior walls and green canopies, which honestly remind me a bit of the old building area of Wuhan University, with a similar style. p15 is the diaolou of Chikan Ancient Town, mainly as the main visual of the scenic area. p16 is a group of buildings in the countryside, with a diaolou at the end. p17/18 are diaolou encountered on the road. In general, I personally recommend the route to see the buildings: Zili Village - Li Garden - Majianglong, and there are shuttle buses between these three places, which is very convenient. Jinjiangli is too far away, so it depends on the situation.

🌟Kaiping Guide | Jiangmen Travel | Diaolou Adventure | World Heritage Site 🏰In Kaiping, Jiangmen, the diaolou (watchtowers) stand like castles guarding history, quietly standing in the countryside. 🌄 These diaolou, which combine Chinese and Western architectural styles, bear witness to the struggles of the local overseas Chinese. Walking among them is like traveling through time and feeling the charm of history. 🌼 Each diaolou tells the story of overseas Chinese, and every brick and tile carries the memory of history. ⬇️🌟Transportation 🚇Get off at Jiangmen Station or Jiangmen East Station, and take a bus or taxi to Kaiping City 🚌In Kaiping City, you can take a bus or taxi, or drive yourself ⬇️🌟Accommodation ▫️It is recommended to stay in Kaiping City for easy access to various attractions ▫️If you want to experience the diaolou culture in depth, you can choose to stay in a homestay near the diaolou ⬇️🌟Route DAY 1: Zili Village Diaolou Cluster → Majianglong Diaolou Cluster → Jinjiangli Diaolou Cluster DAY 2: Li Garden → Chikan Overseas Chinese Town → Kaiping Diaolou Museum DAY 3: Tanjiang Ecological Wetland Corridor → Tea House Experience in Surrounding Villages ⬇️🌟Attractions 📍Zili Village Diaolou Cluster 🔸Ticket🎫: Free 📍Majianglong Diaolou Cluster 🔸Ticket🎫: Free 📍Jinjiangli Diaolou Cluster 🔸Ticket🎫: Free 📍Li Garden 🔸Ticket🎫: 50 📍Chikan Overseas Chinese Town 🔸Ticket🎫: Free 📍Kaiping Diaolou Museum 🔸Ticket🎫: 30 🧡Tips ① It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes, as visiting the diaolou requires a lot of walking ② Bring sunscreen, as the sun is strong in Guangdong ③ When visiting the diaolou, please respect the local culture and customs ⬇️🌟Food Recommendations ① Local specialties such as Kaiping roast goose and dog meat pot ② Traditional dim sum in tea houses, experience authentic tea culture In Kaiping, Jiangmen, feel the unique charm of overseas Chinese culture and explore the mysteries of the World Heritage Site. Let's walk into this city full of historical charm and experience a different travel story. 🌟🏰🌿

📍Kaiping Diaolou Cultural Tourism Area, Guangdong 🟢Kaiping Diaolou is the 35th World Cultural Heritage Site. The scenic area mainly includes Liyuan, Zili Village, and Majianglong. We visited Zili Village, which has some residential houses, 9 watchtowers, and 6 cottages. The most famous is Mingshi Tower, where "Let the Bullets Fly" was filmed. It is also the best place for aerial photography. I was amazed by the interior. There are gramophones, steak pans, cat cages, bathtubs, toilets, and more. I was amazed by the wealth of the owners! 🟢Zili Village is an overseas Chinese village. After making money, overseas Chinese returned to invest in real estate. According to records, 15 watchtowers were built in the 1920s due to rampant banditry and frequent floods. 🟢From the outside, the watchtowers are mostly 4–5 stories high. The windows are small, with iron windows and doors. There are many gun holes in the house, escape ropes upstairs, and places to store large amounts of food. They are very smart. In case of emergencies or bandit attacks, the advantages are obvious! 🟢I did a lot of research before going, and there were mixed reviews. To be honest, the ticket price of 78 is really expensive, especially since we had 5 adults and 1 child. But the rice field scenery and the watchtowers were eye-opening. I think it was worth it. As the saying goes, "Since you're here, you might as well enjoy it!" 🎫: 78/person (Liyuan and Zili Village combo ticket: 120/person) 🛖: There are two free villages nearby: Zuzhai Village and Tangkou 🚘: Liyuan and Zili Village are about 5 km apart. There is a shuttle bus between the two places, about 1 hour/class. ⭕️Finally, I would like to share a sentence from the promotional video in the scenic area that touched me: "Heritage exists not only because of its appearance, but also because of the people who live here, the practice and expression of their way of life, and its thought-provoking nature. The preservation of cultural heritage is not only about protecting the buildings themselves, but also about the inheritance of its history and culture and the continuation of its way of life."

🌈Attraction Features: Kaiping Diaolou is located in Kaiping, Jiangmen, Guangdong. Diaolou is a unique type of Chinese vernacular architecture, a multi-story tower-style building that combines defense, residence, and architectural art. At the end of the 19th century, Kaiping locals went overseas to do business and work, accumulating a lot of wealth, and brought the wealth accumulated overseas back to their hometown. This wealth also attracted bandit robberies. The Chinese and overseas Chinese who originally wanted to buy land and build houses to glorify their ancestors mostly built their houses into "Diaolou" style to defend the safety of their families. 🚩Attraction Strategy: The scenic area is mainly distributed in three areas: Zili Village, Majianglong Village, and Jinjiangli. 💗Evaluation by the World Heritage Committee: Kaiping Diaolou and Villages in Guangdong Province are famous for their multi-story tower-style rural houses - Diaolou, which are used for defense. They show a complex and splendid fusion of Chinese and Western architectural and decorative forms, and show the important role of Kaiping overseas Chinese in the development process of several South Asian countries, Australia, and North American countries in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as well as the close connection between overseas Kaiping people and their hometown. The included heritage includes four groups of a total of 20 Diaolou, which are representatives of nearly 1,800 towers in the village group, representing the peak of tower construction in nearly five centuries, and also showing the still close connection between overseas Chinese and their homeland. The Diaolou and the surrounding rural landscape coexist harmoniously, witnessing the final prosperity of the local architectural tradition for the purpose of anti-banditry since the Ming Dynasty. Kaiping Diaolou Cultural Tourism Zone

Kaiping Diaolou, located in Kaiping City, Jiangmen City, Guangdong Province, is a representative of Guangzhou architecture and culture. It is a multi-storey tower-style building that integrates defense, residence, and Chinese and Western architectural art. Its characteristic is the combination of Chinese and Western residential buildings, with a variety of styles such as ancient Greece, ancient Rome, and Islam. Kaiping Diaolou and Village Scenic Area, a World Cultural Heritage, including Zili Village Diaolou Group, Majialong Diaolou Group, etc. Among them, Zili Village Diaolou Group consists of 15 Diaolous with different styles and unique shapes. These Diaolous are named after the names or intentions of their founders. The buildings are tall and have obvious foreign architectural characteristics. Majialong Village has been rated as "the most beautiful village in Guangdong". The villages are scattered between green mountains and clear water, with a beautiful ecological environment. In addition, there are tourist attractions such as Liyuan, Chikan Ancient Town, and Chishui Xiangjiang Hot Spring. Zili Village is a cluster of villages, including some small two-story and flat-roofed houses, and 9 Diaolous and 6 Lus. Among them, the most famous is Mingshi Building, which was filmed in "Let the Bullets Fly". You can also visit the building floor by floor and climb to the top. The view from the top is great for taking photos. There is a free scenic shuttle bus from Liyuan to Zili Village. Remember to check the bus schedule and arrive at the shuttle bus station early to wait for the bus. Liyuan, a private garden combining Chinese and Western styles, including several Diaolous and exquisite gardens. The buildings are beautiful, and you can go inside the Diaolous and go upstairs. The interior furniture is preserved as it was at the time. There are many rooms, as well as bathtubs and flush toilets. Liyuan's garden is also very beautiful for taking photos, and the pavilions have a unique style. There are places to eat in and around Liyuan Scenic Area, which can be used as lunch spots. Otherwise, it is inconvenient and time-consuming to go out to find food nearby. Tickets💰: Liyuan + Zili Village package 120 yuan/person. Route✔️: Guangzhou South - Kaiping South Intercity about 1h journey. After getting off at Kaiping South Station, call a car directly to Liyuan, which takes about 35 minutes. As the Diaolous are scattered, it is recommended to charter a car for more than 4 people, usually around 30 yuan/person. You can also take a bus to the scenic spot, with bus fares ranging from 1.5 yuan to 5 yuan. Kaiping City has convenient water and land transportation. Kaiyang Expressway and National Highway 325 run through the entire territory. It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to drive from Guangzhou to Kaiping by bus or car. Guangdong Provincial Bus Station (next to Guangzhou Railway Station) to Kaiping Bus, First Class: 6:30 AM, Last Class: 7:30 PM, Every 35 Minutes; Guangzhou Zhongshan Balu Bus Station to Kaiping Bus, First Class: 6:30 AM, Last Class: 8:30 PM, Every 35 Minutes. Accommodation🦋: There are many homestays nearby, which are convenient for travel.

Before coming here, most of the online guides highly recommended Li Garden for its splendor, nobility, and beauty. It stands out from other diaolou and is said that visiting just Li Garden is enough when coming to Kaiping Diaolou. Visiting only Li Garden once became my travel goal. 👀 Among the four ticketed scenic spots of Kaiping Diaolou, the other three are natural villages, while only Li Garden is a self-contained garden. The Xie family, after three generations of hard work abroad, returned home as the richest family in Kaiping and built this first garden of Kaiping, blending Chinese and Western styles. Here, there are not only diaolou villas but also garden layouts, water town scenery, self-developed artificial canals, and walls that separate the villa area from the large and small gardens. There are archways, bridges, pavilions, corridors, and scenic spots at every step. The independent water supply system and modern sanitary facilities, with villas equipped with flush toilets and bathtubs, indeed set Li Garden apart from other diaolou. However, this is just a manor of the Xie family, telling only the story of their own heritage. As a cultural heritage, it requires a multi-layered and multi-dimensional perspective to seek common ground while reserving differences. Thousands of diaolou on this land interpret the historical origins of the overseas Chinese culture, a grand view of the fusion of various exotic architectural styles such as ancient Roman, ancient Greek, and Islamic, showcasing a splendid diversity. Residential buildings can also portray the epitome of an era. Although Li Garden is good, just seeing this one is far from enough. 👀 I entered Li Garden at dusk. Although the staff urged that the diaolou was closing and we couldn't enter for an internal visit, the gray-blue windows on the milky yellow exterior walls were closing one by one. But at this time, the sunlight was the gentlest of the day, with light yellow and hazy blue, and dark green. The Chinese dougong and flying eaves with Roman columns presented a unique elegance and noble beauty that blended Chinese and Western styles. The fiery red bougainvillea was in full bloom, with Li Garden's exclusive labels on the flower pots. A glance back revealed a quiet place with small bridges and flowing water, the water town scenery remained the same, only missing the sound of women washing clothes by the river and the hustle and bustle of household life. There were very few tourists. A father with an eight or nine-year-old girl was entering and exiting the diaolou one by one, patiently explaining and listening attentively. This father-daughter affection was precious. Even though this was the home of the richest family in Kaiping, with the first wife having six sons and three daughters, and three wives giving birth to five sons and five daughters, with a large family and many descendants, I wonder if there was ever a moment of such unique fatherly love? Or perhaps, it was just the construction of the 'Yunmei' residences in a row, indicating equal treatment for each son. 👀 I didn't walk through every corner of the garden, nor did I see every pavilion and building, nor did I enjoy the leisure of setting off in a small boat to drink tea. Leaving at closing time, the father and daughter were still at the entrance. The father wanted to take another look nearby, but the daughter didn't want to go. One was calling, the other was hesitating, back and forth, just like the growth of life, always with a sense of familial attachment and separation. The descendants of the Xie family, far away from their homeland, looking back at their old home, would probably have the same mindset. 💡 The four scenic spots joint ticket for diaolou is 180, valid for two days. Visiting only Zili Village and Li Garden is worth the price, making this ticket cost-effective. 💡 Although the evening sunlight is beautiful, it's backlit for shooting Panwenlou and Panlilou. Morning should be better. 💡 On the way from Zili Village to Li Garden, you can see many diaolou in the villages along the roadside. 💡 There are no dining facilities in the park, it's convenient to eat in Tangkou Town. 2024.8

🚄 Depart from Shenzhen North, arrive in 1.5 hours by high-speed rail, two days and one night, average cost per person 800 🏞️ Jiangmen not only has the world heritage Kaiping Diaolou filled with overseas Chinese culture, and the old street from the drama 'The Knockout' 🏝️ It also has the bird paradise of Lingnan water town and the island with a blend of mountains and sea, worth visiting multiple times This trip mainly focuses on the historical and cultural Citywalk of the old city + food tour ✅ Two days and one night itinerary Xinhui District, Kaiping City 🔷 DAY1 Chenpi Village - Liang Qichao's Former Residence - Bird Paradise - Thirty-three Market Street - Qimingli ▪️ 10:47 Depart from Shenzhen North, arrive at Jiangmen Station in 1.5 hours by high-speed rail, check into a nearby hotel ▪️ 12:30 Chenpi Village 🍊 The Chenpi here is famous nationwide, the air is filled with the scent of Chenpi, everything can be made with Chenpi 😂, tried the signature roast goose of Hengyi, Chenpi ribs, Chenpi tomatoes, very unique but a bit sweet 🥲 ▪️ 14:00 Liang Qichao's Former Residence This is where Mr. Liang Qichao was born and lived, learn about his patriotic contributions and educational views, the architecture is a mix of Western and Lingnan styles, great environment for photos ▪️ 15:30 Bird Paradise Wetland Park The bird paradise described by Ba Jin, the main feature is a large banyan tree, a single tree forming a forest, looks like an island from afar, many egrets, half-hour boat ride, no leg strain and sun protection ▪️ 17:00 Thirty-three Market Street (filming location of 'The Knockout') ✔️ Century-old arcade street, check-in at the same route as 'The Knockout', first step in life, walk the path of Brother Qiang 😂 ➡️ Vietnamese coffee - Thirty-three Market Street steps - Qiangsheng Xiaoling Communication - Xuji Noodles eating pig's foot noodles - balloon salute - crossroads - Wanhong Audio (all within a few hundred meters walking distance) 🔹 Pig's foot noodles are really delicious, the Vietnamese coffee 'Heart Willingly' is also good 😭, ✔️ Heji Rice Noodle Shop, Quanji Herbal Tea Shop ▪️ 18:30 Qimingli There are some overseas Chinese buildings and small boutique shops, a bit like Tianzifang, with cultural and creative shops, coffee shops, highly recommend Coffee around, great environment for a rest 😴 🔷 DAY2 Kaiping Diaolou - Pioneer Bookstore - Chikan Overseas Chinese Ancient Town ▪️ 9:43 From Jiangmen High-speed Rail Station to Kaiping South, half-hour taxi to Kaiping Diaolou ▪️ 10:30 Kaiping Diaolou (Zili Village Scenic Area) Listed as a world heritage site 🏰, the diaolou is a mix of Chinese and Western styles, very high visit value, the diaolou surrounded by rice fields and lotus ponds on rainy days, tranquil and atmospheric The diaolou integrates defense and residence, with three scenic spots (if time is tight, just visit Zili Village) the movie 'Let the Bullets Fly' was filmed here, recommend climbing 'Mingshi Tower' ▪️ 13:00 Pioneer Bookstore Praised by BBC as one of the world's top ten most beautiful bookstores, Pioneer Bookstore has opened in Jiangmen, transformed from five old granaries, named after grains, divided into different functional areas, very artistic, cultural and creative products are very thoughtful, bought a bunch 😭 By the way, go to Tangkou Town to eat Wenji claypot rice, recommend firewood claypot rice, tofu corner ▪️ 15:00 Chikan Overseas Chinese Ancient Town An ancient town with a history of 370 years, the arcade buildings of the Republic of China era blend with Southeast Asian style, rich in historical heritage, very large! You can play on the tram, rowboat, paddleboard, recommend taking a boat, not many people, basically a private boat tour, very leisurely ▪️ 18:25 Kaiping South - Shenzhen North The two-day itinerary is a bit full, besides the rich history and food, Jiangmen also has niche islands like Nachan Peninsula, Shangxiachuan Island, Guifeng Mountain, worth at least 3 days to explore~

I learned about the Guangdong Kaiping Diaolou because of the movie 'Let the Bullets Fly'. Finally, I have the chance to see the filming location! Kaiping Diaolou is located in Kaiping City, Jiangmen, Guangdong Province. It was officially listed in the 'World Heritage List' in 2007, becoming China's 35th World Heritage site and the first overseas Chinese cultural World Heritage project in China. Diaolou is a special type of rural architecture in China. It is a multi-story tower-style building that integrates defense, residence, and Chinese and Western architectural arts. Its feature is the combination of Chinese and Western residential styles, blending the unique architectural art styles of traditional Chinese rural architecture and Western architecture. ✨ The Diaolou in Kaiping are scattered in different areas. If time is limited, it is recommended to visit the Zili Village Diaolou Cluster. This place is not only the filming location of the movie 'Let the Bullets Fly', but also gives a sense of the pastoral atmosphere of Lingnan. ✨ Not far from Zili Village is Li Garden, a private garden of Xie Weili, an overseas Chinese who lived in the United States. The garden integrates traditional gardening, Western architecture, and the characteristics of Jiangnan water towns, blending Chinese and Western architectural art styles. Compared to the Diaolou, it is more exquisite! Zili Village Diaolou Cluster + Li Garden Combo Ticket: 150 RMB/person (parking fee not included) ✨ Tangkou Market is also a good recommendation. It is a cultural and creative park with small restaurants, cafes, and wall paintings. Many people come to check out the Avant-Garde Tianxia Granary Bookstore. Having visited the Avant-Garde Bookstore in Shaxi, Yunnan, I was intrigued by this store in Kaiping. The Avant-Garde Tianxia Granary Bookstore is transformed from five old granaries, each named after different types of grains: 'Rice Granary', 'Millet Granary', 'Sorghum Granary', 'Wheat Granary', and 'Bean Granary'. These Mongolian yurt-shaped buildings were built in the 1970s and were once granaries for storing grain in the surrounding villages of Tangkou Town, Kaiping. They are grand and magnificent in appearance. The bookstore consists of five large granaries for books and a glass house used as a cafe. You can read, take photos, drink coffee, and buy local cultural and creative products here. ✨ If time permits, you can also arrange to visit: Majianglong Diaolou Cluster, Jinjiangli Diaolou Cluster, Chikan Ancient Town, etc. They have different appearances during the day and night. ✨ It is recommended to drive yourself to visit the Kaiping Diaolou Cluster for convenience. ✨ There are also many characteristic homestays around, which can be checked on platforms in advance. ✨ There are claypot rice, simple meals, etc. around.

During the Spring Festival holiday, take a direct flight to Guangzhou to check in at Kaiping Diaolou. For northerners, the architectural style is relatively peculiar, lacking some sentimentality. Li Garden is not as stylish as Liyuan, but Liyuan is very beautiful, with pleasant scenery, and it's also very large, a proper landlord's estate. Compared to the landlords in the north, it is more beautiful and pleasing to the eye, with more culture. Guangzhou and Shenzhen also have places to play. But if you're just playing, it's a bit confusing, not knowing what to do. I visited a few famous districts

Jiangmen is a city rich in historical and cultural heritage, which became famous for the movie 'Let the Bullets Fly'. The arcade streets and overseas Chinese culture exude a charming allure. Pick a sunny weekend to walk among the retro arcades, feel the relaxed atmosphere of the city, and enjoy a delightful Citywalk❗️ 🚗Citywalk route: Kaiping Diaolou ➡️ Chikan Ancient Town ➡️ Mei Family Mansion ➡️ Thirty-Three Market Street ➡️ Rainbow Village ➡️ East Lake Park ➡️ Qiming Star 🗺️Recommended attractions 1️⃣Kaiping Diaolou: A symbol of the fusion of Chinese and Western cultures in the hometown of overseas Chinese. It is also the filming location for 'Let the Bullets Fly'. The entire street is lined with diaolous, it's okay to just take pictures of the exterior architecture, and only 2 buildings are open for visiting in the scenic area, which can save time 2️⃣Chikan Ancient Town: A commercial street with a Republic of China style, quite extensive, it is recommended to take a tram ride to explore, and don't miss the morning tea delicacies 3️⃣Mei Family Mansion - Thirty-Three Market Street: Both are filming locations for 'Let the Bullets Fly'❗️ 🔅️Around Mei Family Mansion, there are many special snacks to try, and some arcades on the second floor are accessible for photography, offering a panoramic view 🔅Market Street is full of arcade buildings, an old street with a sense of the era, walking here is like traveling back to the end of the last century with a retro filter, always photogenic 4️⃣Rainbow Village: Check in at the Miyazaki-style comic village, it's like a palette 🎨 spilled over the village, each house radiates dopamine, super healing colors 5️⃣East Lake Park: A natural oxygen bar❗️With a Ferris wheel, you can also go boating 🚢 and there's a small amusement park, a good place to visit after a meal 6️⃣Qiming Star: A check-in spot for artistic youths❗️A century-old village, take a slow walk to see many vintage arcade buildings, artistic shops, and Chinese-style teahouses

World Cultural Heritage | Kaiping Diaolou! The filming location of the movie 'Let the Bullets Fly', a traditional Chinese residential building, the Kaiping Diaolou, finally checked in in person! Here are some suggestions for reference: 1 Transportation: High-speed train directly to Kaiping South Station 2 The diaolous are scattered across several villages, as detailed in the tour map. To visit the diaolous from Kaiping South Station, you can take a bus, but you still have to walk after getting off, which is not recommended. It is advised to directly call a ride-hailing service, which can take you right to the entrance of the scenic area, very convenient and not expensive. 2. The diaolous are located in several places, and the ticket sales are also linked. You can choose to visit selectively based on your own schedule and interests. I bought a joint ticket for Zili Village, Liyuan, and Chikan for 198 yuan, which can be finished in one day. Locals all drive by themselves, and although there are shuttle buses between the diaolous, the timing is not flexible, so it is recommended for tourists from other places to take a taxi directly! 4 One day is enough to visit the diaolous. For those who need to return to Jiangmen city from Kaiping, if you can't catch the high-speed train, you can also choose to take a bus. The Kaiping Bus Station goes directly to Jiangmen Bus Station, costing 28 yuan per person, which is quite convenient! Diaolou Travel Old Street Ancient Town Travel Guide

Jinjiangli was established by the Huang family during the reign of Emperor Guangxu in the Qing Dynasty. There are a total of 3 diaolous in the village, namely Ruishi Lou, Shengfeng Lou, and Jinjiang Lou. Among them, Ruishi Lou and Jinjiang Lou are inhabitable, while Shengfeng Lou is only used for defense. The most famous one is the so-called 'Number One Lou of Kaiping,' Ruishi Lou, which is the tallest and most beautiful existing diaolou in Kaiping. These three diaolous were built during the Republic of China period and feature a special blend of Chinese and Western styles. They are quite beautiful, and since there are few people around, it's quite suitable for a peaceful stroll. Majianglong was built during the late Qing Dynasty and the early Republic of China and has been praised by United Nations experts as one of the 'world's most beautiful villages.' Majianglong was constructed due to rampant banditry and frequent flooding at the time. There are currently 7 diaolous and 8 villas, among which only Lin Villa and Jun Villa are open to the public. A distinctive feature of the Majianglong diaolous is their location by the mountains and water, with both the diaolous and residential houses nestled in bamboo groves, blending seamlessly with the natural environment, resembling a paradise on earth.

|Two-Day One-Night Self-Driving Tour Guide. We mainly enjoy a leisurely tour for two days and one night Self-driving🚗: About 1.5 hours' drive from Guangzhou to Jiangmen Hotel🏨: Near Diwang Plaza (close to various scenic spots in the city center) We went during the Qingming Festival, and it was crowded! I suggest you can pick any weekend~ Day1 Route: 📍Thirty-Three Sigh Street (popular photo spot) ➡️ Qiming Lane ➡️ HEYTEA original store ➡️ Hotel🏨 rest ➡️ Eel claypot rice🥢 At Thirty-Three Sigh, we tried the same pig's trotter noodles🍜 as Brother Qiang, which were just so-so haha Qiming Lane is like a creative park, with many beautiful ☕️ shops and photo spots📷 ✅Thirty-Three Sigh and Qiming Lane are next to each other, and the HEYTEA original store is also nearby, exclusive to the original store: Cheezo Citrus Pu'er Tea🍹 (a friend tried it and said it was very good) worth checking out~ 🍽Eel claypot rice: We went to the Xili Ji Taishan eel rice on Shengli Road, the taste was pretty good, but it was super crowded during mealtime, and the service was slow. By the time we finished eating, there was still a dish that hadn't been served Day2 Route: 📍Hotel🏨 ➡️ Kaiping Diaolou🕍 ➡️ Chikan Ancient Town🏘 ➡️ Return trip🚗 Slept in until waking up naturally in the morning, then set off to Kaiping Diaolou, about an hour's drive from Pengjiang District. You need to buy a ticket for 78💰/person to enter Zili Village, which is the filming location for 'Let the Bullets Fly'🎬 Then we went to Chikan Ancient Town, about 15-20 minutes' drive from the Diaolou. It's somewhat similar to Yongqing Fang in Guangzhou haha, 🎫ticket price 60💰/person. Overall, it's quite suitable for a two-day weekend city walk~