Key Takeaways:
-
Jiangmen blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and Cantonese charm into a year-round travel experience.
-
From hot springs and ancient villages to forest parks and lively festivals, Jiangmen offers something for every type of traveler.
-
The city provides a calm yet engaging alternative to China’s bigger urban centers, with plenty of hidden gems to uncover.
Jiangmen, located in the southern Guangdong province of China, is a city known for its rich overseas Chinese heritage, relaxing natural spots, and deep-rooted traditions. Often called the “Hometown of Overseas Chinese,” many of its residents have family ties across the globe, especially in the Americas and Southeast Asia. Jiangmen is less crowded than major cities like Guangzhou or Shenzhen, but just as culturally significant—home to UNESCO-listed diaolou towers, beautiful hot springs, and picturesque countryside. People love Jiangmen for its blend of heritage, hospitality, and laid-back lifestyle.
Table of Contents
-
Explore the Kaiping Diaolou and Villages
-
Relax in Gudou Hot Spring Resort
-
Hike Through Baishuidai Forest Park
-
Discover Local Culture at Jiangmen Museum
-
Visit the Historic Chikan Old Town
-
Cruise Along the Tanjiang River
-
Attend the Overseas Chinese Culture Festival
-
Visit Yamen Fort and Learn About the Opium Wars
-
Experience the Traditional Dragon Boat Festival
-
Try Cantonese Street Food at Pengjiang Night Market
1. Explore the Kaiping Diaolou and Villages
One of Jiangmen’s most iconic experiences is visiting the Kaiping Diaolou, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases over 1,800 watchtowers scattered across peaceful rice paddies and small villages. These fortified multi-story buildings, built by overseas Chinese in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reflect a rare fusion of Western and Chinese architectural styles. Wander through the photogenic village of Zili or climb up Majianglong for panoramic views of the landscape. Each diaolou tells a story of migration, protection, and cultural pride.
These towers were originally built to guard against bandits, but now they guard the memories of generations who helped shape the region’s global ties. Many of the surrounding villages remain active, and friendly locals are often happy to share stories or guide you to hidden structures. The fields, canals, and preserved courtyards create an atmosphere that feels both timeless and tranquil. If you’re a fan of photography, architecture, or history, this is a must-do.
2. Relax in Gudou Hot Spring Resort
Nestled in the hills just outside central Jiangmen, Gudou Hot Spring Resort is a year-round oasis of relaxation. The resort offers both indoor and outdoor pools filled with mineral-rich waters that are believed to aid circulation and relieve stress. With a beautiful natural backdrop and traditional Chinese design elements, it’s an ideal escape from busy city life. Whether you’re soaking under the stars or enjoying a hot stone treatment, Gudou offers serenity and luxury at an accessible price.
The resort also includes hotels, dining options, and walking trails, making it perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers looking to unwind. You can choose from private rooms, communal pools, or themed areas like herbal baths and volcanic mud zones. Visiting during the cooler months adds to the experience, but it’s equally popular year-round thanks to Jiangmen’s mild climate. Few places combine health, beauty, and leisure so seamlessly.
3. Hike Through Baishuidai Forest Park
Baishuidai Forest Park is one of Jiangmen’s hidden natural treasures, located just 15 minutes from downtown. Known for its bamboo groves, gentle streams, and cool shade, this park is ideal for peaceful hikes and weekend picnics. A series of well-paved trails lead visitors through waterfalls, wooden bridges, and observation points with views over the surrounding countryside. The air here is noticeably fresher, and the sounds of water and birdsong replace the buzz of urban life.
Locals often come here for early morning exercise, tai chi, or family outings. There’s also a cultural aspect to the park, with small temples and pavilions tucked away between the trees. If you’re lucky, you might catch a local performance or traditional game taking place on a Sunday. It’s a great spot to relax, reflect, and reconnect with nature without leaving the city.
4. Discover Local Culture at Jiangmen Museum
Located in the Pengjiang District, Jiangmen Museum is a beautifully designed modern building that showcases the city’s deep-rooted history and cultural diversity. Exhibits cover topics ranging from prehistoric relics and traditional crafts to the city’s legacy as the homeland of millions of overseas Chinese. One of the highlights is the gallery dedicated to the early Chinese diaspora and the influence they had on Jiangmen’s development. It’s a great place to learn about how local life evolved through trade, migration, and global connections.
The museum is free to enter and provides bilingual signage in Chinese and English, making it accessible to international travelers. There are rotating exhibitions and educational activities, particularly during national holidays. If you enjoy learning about cultural identity and local history, Jiangmen Museum is worth at least a couple of hours. It offers excellent context before exploring other parts of the city.
5. Visit the Historic Chikan Old Town
Chikan Old Town in Kaiping, about an hour from central Jiangmen, is a beautifully preserved riverside town with roots in the early 20th century. Originally a hub for overseas Chinese returning from abroad, the town features narrow alleys, Baroque-style buildings, and nostalgic shopfronts that evoke a bygone era. Walking through Chikan is like stepping onto a movie set—it has, in fact, been used in many Chinese films and dramas. Its faded facades, teahouses, and vintage vibe make it an atmospheric destination.
Despite its vintage charm, Chikan isn’t just a museum—it’s alive with locals, small businesses, and riverside strolls. Restoration efforts have kept the character intact while introducing cultural exhibits and occasional festivals. Be sure to visit the old movie theater, enjoy a bowl of wonton noodles, and explore the surrounding bridges and canals. It’s a photographer’s paradise and a quiet escape full of character.
6. Cruise Along the Tanjiang River
The Tanjiang River flows gracefully through several key areas in Jiangmen and offers a tranquil way to see the region by water. Boat cruises—especially popular in Kaiping and Enping—provide scenic views of riverside villages, green hills, and the region’s famous diaolou towers. As you glide along the calm waters, you’ll often pass fishermen, historic bridges, and photogenic stilt houses. It’s a relaxing activity that captures the pace of life in Guangdong’s countryside.
Evening cruises are particularly romantic, with golden reflections dancing on the river as lanterns and waterfront homes begin to glow. You can join a group tour or rent a small boat for a private experience. Some cruises even include light refreshments or cultural performances on weekends. It’s a perfect way to unwind and absorb the beauty of Jiangmen from a different perspective.
7. Attend the Overseas Chinese Culture Festival
Held annually, the Overseas Chinese Culture Festival celebrates Jiangmen’s unique role as the ancestral home of millions of Chinese who emigrated abroad. The city comes alive with music, dance, food fairs, and exhibitions showcasing stories of migration and cultural exchange. Parades feature traditional lion dances, Cantonese opera, and modern stage performances. It’s a heartfelt display of pride and identity that unites locals and returning family members from around the world.
For travelers, this festival offers an immersive dive into the city’s soul—connecting its past and present in vibrant fashion. Many activities are free and take place in public squares, parks, and cultural centers. If your visit aligns with the festival dates, it’s a wonderful opportunity to experience community spirit and international heritage in action. It’s Jiangmen at its most festive and welcoming.
8. Visit Yamen Fort and Learn About the Opium Wars
History buffs shouldn’t miss Yamen Fort, a historic site built to defend the region during the Opium Wars in the 19th century. The coastal fortress once saw fierce battles between Qing forces and British naval troops. Today, the site has been preserved as a museum and heritage park, complete with cannons, barracks, and bilingual exhibits. Walking its stone walls, you can imagine the tension of that era and learn about the wider impact of colonial trade on Guangdong.
Located in Xinhui District, the area is peaceful and surrounded by natural beauty. The museum provides context to one of the most pivotal chapters in China’s modern history. It’s an off-the-beaten-path site that’s especially rewarding for those interested in military history and regional identity. Guided tours are available on request and enhance the educational value of the visit.
9. Experience the Traditional Dragon Boat Festival
Every June, Jiangmen’s rivers and canals burst into activity with the Dragon Boat Festival, a lively celebration filled with races, rituals, and food. Teams of rowers, often representing local villages or schools, race elaborately decorated boats to the beat of drums. The excitement is contagious, and crowds gather along bridges and embankments to cheer them on. Traditional dishes like zongzi (sticky rice wrapped in bamboo leaves) are shared among friends and family.
The festival honors the poet Qu Yuan and promotes values of loyalty and unity. In Jiangmen, the event also doubles as a reunion for many overseas Chinese families returning to celebrate their roots. Visitors can join in the festivities, try traditional foods, and even take part in cultural demonstrations. It’s a colorful, heart-pounding way to experience Jiangmen’s traditions firsthand.
10. Try Cantonese Street Food at Pengjiang Night Market
No visit to Jiangmen is complete without indulging in its Cantonese street food, and the Pengjiang Night Market is the best place to start. As dusk falls, food stalls begin serving everything from grilled squid and oyster omelets to steaming bowls of congee and freshly made dim sum. The smells, sounds, and visuals make for a sensory feast. Locals gather here not just to eat, but to socialize and unwind.
What makes this market special is its blend of traditional flavors and modern twists. You might find fusion snacks, bubble tea vendors, or desserts influenced by returning Chinese from abroad. Prices are low, portions are generous, and the energy is lively and friendly. It’s the perfect way to end your night in Jiangmen—on a full and flavorful note.
What to do if you have kids?
Jiangmen is a great city for families traveling with children. Parks like Baishuidai Forest and scenic spots like Gudou Hot Spring offer safe outdoor space for kids to explore and play. The museums are interactive enough to keep young minds engaged, especially those with hands-on exhibits or storytelling corners. Many restaurants are family-friendly with local favorites kids will enjoy, and the relaxed pace of the city means less stress for parents. Stick to daytime adventures and bring along basic snacks and entertainment when visiting more remote areas.
Where can I find free events in Jiangmen China taking place this weekend?
To discover free events happening in Jiangmen this weekend, visit https://planmyweekend.ai. Our tool helps you instantly uncover local happenings like street festivals, public performances, community gatherings, and cultural showcases—tailored to your interests and current location. Whether you’re into art, food, family activities, or cultural heritage, Plan My Weekend makes exploring Jiangmen effortless, affordable, and exciting.
Final thoughts on planning a trip here
Jiangmen is a city that blends quiet charm with rich heritage, making it a perfect destination for curious and mindful travelers. From historic towers and peaceful rivers to delicious street food and lively festivals, every experience here feels authentic and grounded in tradition. It’s a place where you can relax and explore without the hustle of China’s megacities. Whether you’re tracing family roots, discovering history, or simply enjoying nature, Jiangmen welcomes you with open arms and a warm heart.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
