Chikan Old Town Kaiping China
Step back in time in Chikan Old Town, a historic Chinese gem famous for its movie-set ambiance and unique Diaolou architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch potential light shows
Chikan Old Town Kaiping China
Best Time
Catch potential light shows
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Chikan Old Town, a historic Chinese gem famous for its movie-set ambiance and unique Diaolou architecture.
"Highly recommend renting outfits and hiring a photographer for amazing memories!"
📸 Rent Period Outfits
Dress up in 1920s attire and hire a photographer for memorable photos! Packages often include outfits, hair, makeup, and photos.
🎬 Embrace the Film Vibe
Chikan is a famous movie location! Imagine yourself in a scene from 'Let the Bullets Fly' as you explore.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rongan Lou Diaolou
Entrance area
A striking 6-story tower, one of the taller diaolou in the area, offering a glimpse into the region's unique fortified architecture.
Movie Set Ambiance
Throughout the town
Wander through streets that have hosted famous films, feeling the history and cinematic charm of this well-preserved ancient town.
Fusion Architecture
Along the Tan River
Admire the blend of traditional Chinese design with overseas influences, reflecting the town's rich history and overseas Chinese connections.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Cinematic Past
Timing is Key for Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Rent Period Outfits
Dress up in 1920s attire and hire a photographer for memorable photos! Packages often include outfits, hair, makeup, and photos.
🎬 Embrace the Film Vibe
Chikan is a famous movie location! Imagine yourself in a scene from 'Let the Bullets Fly' as you explore.
🍽️ Try Local Delicacies
Don't miss the pan-fried tofu pork – it's a highly recommended local dish!
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Street
While some areas are quiet, venture further to discover the town's charm and historical buildings.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Rent Period Outfits
Dress up in 1920s attire and hire a photographer for memorable photos! Packages often include outfits, hair, makeup, and photos.
🎬 Embrace the Film Vibe
Chikan is a famous movie location! Imagine yourself in a scene from 'Let the Bullets Fly' as you explore.
🍽️ Try Local Delicacies
Don't miss the pan-fried tofu pork – it's a highly recommended local dish!
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Street
While some areas are quiet, venture further to discover the town's charm and historical buildings.
💰 Be Mindful of Prices
Souvenirs and food can be pricey. Keep an eye on costs, especially if you're on a budget.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chikan Old Town offers a unique glimpse into China's past, particularly its cinematic history and distinctive Diaolou architecture. Visitors enjoy the opportunity to rent period costumes for photoshoots and try local delicacies like pan-fried tofu pork. However, some find many buildings empty, leading to a 'ghost town' feel, and note that prices for food and souvenirs can be high.
"Chikan (赤坎) is a town in Kaiping (開平), Jiangmen, Guangdong Province, China. It is officially designated as a National Historic and Cultural Town of China (中国历史文化名镇). Upon arrival, Rongan Lou greeted visitors with a banner saying “Chikan is a town for movies”. This is one of the few diaolou’s in the ancient town. Rongan Lou has 6 stories, and it is one of the taller diaolou’s in the neighborhood.
Chikan, meaning “red ground,” acquired its Chinese name due to the abundance of red earth in the area. The two main clans that settled in this area of Kaiping in Chikan were the Guan ( 關族)and the Situ (司徒族). The history of settlement began about 350 years ago. In the earlier times, the Guans and the Situs did not get along. They each set up their own marketplaces, which were the economic lifelines in Chinese societies. Where their economic and territorial interests clashed, the two clans had resorted to violent confrontations. The Tan River (Tanjiang) (潭江)runs through now Chikan Ancient Town. Traditionally, the Situs marked their territory north of the river. The Guans took the south. As with the general area of Kaiping, Chikan is also known for the heavy influence that the overseas Chinese have had in all aspects of its history and landscape. Because of the beautiful city-scape of Chikan, and abundance of its fusion architecture, Chikan has been a very popular choice for movie sets. Amongst the best-known ones are Qiu Xi (秋喜) (2009) and The Grandmaster ( -代宗師) (2013). Another movie that has earned wide acclaim was Let the Bullets Fly (讓子彈飛) (2010). It was set in Kaiping."
Doug Ho
"Very funny place to visit. We came closer to the evening so that we can watch the fireworks. Didn't understand what they were saying but the lots of sound effects and beautiful light show with fireworks. You can also pay to take the team around. Most building are empty and some are shops for retail and food. We tried the famous pan fried Tofu pork. It was very good. And we also rented outfits from 1920s Era and hired a photographer to take pictures. About $488rmb for a family of 4. Includes dress upbfor 4 people. Makeup and hairdo for 2 people and a photographer for 1 hour and 4 photos. Highly recommend!!!"
Jenny Snowy
"Nice place to visit with family, some areas are still under construction."
connie kuang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Chikan Old Town from Guangzhou, you can take a high-speed train to Kaiping South Station, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to Chikan. Alternatively, direct bus services are available from Guangzhou bus stations to Kaiping, from where you can find local transport to the old town.
Yes, Chikan Old Town is accessible by public transport. Buses run from Kaiping city center to the old town. Taxis are also readily available for a more direct route.
The most convenient way to travel between Kaiping city and Chikan Old Town is by taxi or local bus. The journey is relatively short, making it an easy addition to your Kaiping itinerary.
Yes, several tour operators offer day trips or multi-day tours that include Chikan Old Town, especially from major cities like Guangzhou. Alibaba Holiday has previously organized China day tours to Chikan.
Travel time to Chikan varies. From Kaiping city, it's about a 30-40 minute drive. From Guangzhou, a high-speed train to Kaiping takes around 1 hour, followed by local transit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main areas of Chikan Old Town is generally free, allowing you to wander the streets. However, some specific attractions or buildings within the town might have separate entrance fees.
Chikan Old Town is typically open to visitors throughout the day and into the evening. Specific shop or attraction hours may vary, but the town itself is accessible for exploration at most times.
While the town itself is free to enter, some of the prominent Diaolou buildings, like Rongan Lou, may have a small entrance fee to access their interiors and upper floors.
Yes, any applicable entrance fees for specific buildings can usually be paid on-site. It's always a good idea to have some cash handy for smaller vendors or entry points.
Information on combo tickets is not widely available. It's best to check on-site for any package deals that might be offered for multiple attractions within the old town.
📸 📸 Photography & Experiences
The winding streets, traditional wooden houses, and the Rongan Lou Diaolou are excellent photo spots. Renting period costumes and hiring a photographer offers unique, memorable shots.
Many visitors find it highly recommended and fun to rent traditional outfits from the 1920s era for photoshoots. It adds an immersive element to the experience.
Yes, you can hire photographers on-site, often as part of a package that includes costume rental. This is a popular option for families and couples.
Chikan offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese life, with opportunities to see historical architecture, explore local shops, and try regional cuisine. The town's cinematic history also adds a unique cultural layer.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone over Chikan Old Town to avoid issues.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
A must-try is the famous pan-fried tofu pork, which is highly praised by visitors. You can also find other local snacks and dishes in the restaurants and shops.
There are several restaurants and food stalls scattered throughout the town, offering a range of local and regional Chinese cuisine. However, some reviews suggest food quality can be inconsistent.
While some restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable options like street snacks or smaller eateries. Exploring different parts of the town might reveal more budget-friendly choices.
Vegetarian options might be limited, but many Chinese restaurants can prepare vegetable-based dishes upon request. It's best to inquire with the restaurant staff.
You can find small shops and eateries that may offer beverages like tea or coffee. For more extensive cafe options, you might need to look in the nearby Kaiping city.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🎬 Film Buffs & History Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Cinematic Charm of Chikan
Many visitors are drawn to Chikan specifically for its movie-set appeal. The opportunity to walk the same streets as famous actors and experience the ambiance that captivated directors is a significant draw. This connection to cinema adds an extra layer of engagement, transforming a historical exploration into an immersive storytelling experience. The town's designation as a National Historic and Cultural Town of China underscores its importance in preserving this unique cultural heritage.
Understanding the Diaolou Architecture
The history of the Diaolou is deeply intertwined with the local clans, such as the Guan and Situ families who settled in Chikan centuries ago. These towers served as protection against bandits and also as symbols of wealth and status for the returning overseas Chinese. The fusion of architectural styles reflects the global connections of the region's inhabitants. Exploring these structures offers insight into the historical context of migration, defense, and cultural exchange in Guangdong Province.
Experiencing Chikan Through Photography
Beyond staged photoshoots, the town itself provides ample opportunities for candid shots. The quiet lanes, the reflections in the water (if near the Tan River), and the details of the architecture all contribute to a rich photographic experience. Visiting in the late afternoon can offer beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the historical ambiance. Remember to be respectful of local residents and businesses while capturing the essence of this ancient town.
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