Things To Do
in Longchuan
Longchuan County (龙川县) sits in northeastern Guangdong province and is a predominantly Hakka region of rolling hills, rivers and traditional villages. The county seat is a small, lively town with markets, ancestral halls and a mix of modern shops and old lanes while the surrounding countryside offers terraced fields, streams and forested ridges. Longchuan’s culture is strongly influenced by Hakka traditions—food, architecture and festivals reflect that heritage.
It’s an off-the-beaten-path destination best for travelers who enjoy rural landscapes, local cuisine, and low-key cultural experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Longchuan Ancient Town, where you can wander through the cobblestone streets lined with traditional architecture. Stop by the local market to sample fresh fruits and traditional snacks, immersing yourself in the local culture. Don't forget to capture the vibrant morning atmosphere with your camera as locals set up their stalls.
In the afternoon, visit the Longchuan Museum to explore exhibits showcasing the rich history and culture of the region. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the serene views and perhaps spotting local fishermen at work. Conclude your afternoon by visiting the nearby tea houses to savor a cup of locally sourced tea amidst beautiful surroundings.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional restaurant where you can indulge in authentic Longchuan cuisine, featuring local specialties. After dinner, take a scenic walk along the illuminated riverside promenade, enjoying the peaceful ambiance. End your evening by attending a cultural performance showcasing local music and dance.
Start your day by heading to the picturesque Longchuan Nature Reserve, a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike. Enjoy a guided hike through lush greenery, where you can spot unique flora and fauna endemic to the region. Take breaks along the way to capture the stunning landscapes and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
After a hearty picnic lunch surrounded by nature, embark on a guided bird-watching tour, where you may encounter various species that inhabit the reserve. Spend some time by the tranquil lakes, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature. In the late afternoon, visit a nearby waterfall for a refreshing dip and some stunning photo opportunities.
Return to Longchuan in the evening and explore a local night market, where you can sample street food and shop for handmade crafts. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as locals gather to socialize and enjoy the evening. Wrap up your day with a visit to a local bar or tea house for a relaxed end to an adventurous day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1.50-4 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.30-1 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride (town) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Hakka culture and cuisine
- Pleasant rural landscapes and photo opportunities
- Low cost of travel and relaxed pace
- Limited English signage and English-speaking services
- Public transportation and nightlife are limited compared with cities
- Fewer tourist amenities and occasional infrastructure constraints in remote areas
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
- "多少钱? (Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much does it cost?
- "厕所在哪里? (Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Where is the restroom?
- "我吃素 (Wǒ chī sù)" - I am vegetarian
- "对不起 (Duìbuqǐ)" - Excuse me / Sorry
Places to Visit in Longchuan
Visit one of these nice places.
Traditional Hakka houses, ancestral halls and narrow lanes make great portrait and architectural photos—visit during morning or late afternoon for soft light.
Riverside scenes with fishing boats, reflections and local life—good for landscape and candid street photography.
Terraced fields and patchwork farmland on the county outskirts offer scenic panoramas, especially in planting or harvest seasons.
Market scenes, street vendors and shopfronts capture daily life and local colors—best in busy morning or evening hours.
Short hikes to ridge viewpoints yield wide vistas of hills and valleys—ideal for golden hour and landscape shots.
Food in Longchuan
Longchuan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Hakka specialty: whole chicken slow-cooked with salt and aromatics until tender. Found in family restaurants and market stalls across town.
Must-Try!
Braised pork belly layered with preserved mustard greens — rich and savory, commonly served in local eateries and during family meals.
Tofu stuffed with seasoned mince and steamed or fried — a common home-style dish available at small diners and market vendors.
Locally sourced freshwater fish prepared simply (steamed or braised) in village restaurants along rivers and streams.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Typical county market selling fresh produce, live poultry, snacks and food stalls—great for trying local buns, steamed snacks and pork dishes.
Small evening stalls offering skewers, fried dough, rice noodles and sweet treats; ideal for casual tasting tours.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show respect to older people in greetings and seating; Hakka communities value family and seniority.
It’s common to remove shoes when entering private homes—wait for the host or follow local cues.
A simple 'ni hao' is fine; saving loud or confrontational behavior in public is appreciated. Use two hands when offering or receiving small gifts.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially inside homes or during religious ceremonies; a smile and a simple phrase goes a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Longchuan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in everyday interactions in small towns; in hotels or for exceptional service a small tip is appreciated but not expected. For guided tours or private drivers, a modest tip is fine.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely used and accepted in most shops, restaurants and taxis. Cash (RMB) remains useful in small rural stalls and markets; credit cards may be accepted at larger hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and increasing rainfall; countryside becomes green and flowers bloom. Pack a light rain jacket and expect some muddy trails after showers.
Hot and humid with frequent heavy rain and occasional typhoons in late summer; ideal for riverside activities but bring sun protection and prepare for storms.
Generally pleasant and drier with comfortable temperatures—one of the best times for hiking, photography and outdoor exploration.
Mild compared with northern China but cooler in the mornings and evenings; light layers are sufficient, though higher hills can be chilly.
Longchuan at Night
Hiking in Longchuan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short circuits through terraced farmland near the county outskirts—good for sunrise photography and easy hikes among cultivated landscapes.
Moderate hikes along forested ridges offering panoramic views of valleys and waterways; suitable for half-day trips.
Trailing along the Dongjiang river branches, these trails provide riverside scenery, small waterfalls and shaded walking routes—best after dry weather for safer footing.
Airports
How to reach Longchuan by plane.
Closest regional airport serving the nearby Meizhou area; reachable by road in about 1.5–3 hours depending on traffic—useful for domestic connections.
Major international airport with many domestic and international flights; roughly 2–3 hours by car depending on route and traffic—accessible by highway.
Large international hub with frequent flights; about 2.5–4 hours by car or bus depending on traffic—offers the most options for onward travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of Longchuan’s population are Hakka, a Han Chinese subgroup with distinct dialect, customs, cuisine and strong community networks.
Small populations of ethnic minorities live in some mountainous areas; they maintain unique cultural traditions and festivals.
Like many rural Chinese counties, Longchuan has a significant farming community and relatively higher proportions of older residents due to urban migration of younger people.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common recreational sports enjoyed by many locals in community centers and schools.
Popular among youth and amateur leagues, played in schoolyards and public courts.
Regional festival sports and performances (dragon boat racing, lion dances) are part of local cultural celebrations during certain times of year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Longchuan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but may be limited in small rural places. Request ‘su’ (素) dishes and focus on tofu, vegetable stir-fries and rice noodles; markets sell fresh produce for self-prepared meals if staying in a homestay.
Vegan travelers should clarify no animal products (ask for ‘bu yao ji dan, nai la, rou’ — no egg, milk, meat). Some sauces may contain fish or oyster sauce, so confirm ingredients where possible.
Halal-specific restaurants are scarce; Muslim travelers may need to seek restaurants in larger nearby cities or choose vegetarian dishes and avoid pork. Plan ahead if strict dietary adherence is required.