Shantou

Shantou, (汕头; Suan¹tao⁵ in Teochew, Shàntóu in Mandarin), known as Swatow in the local language, is a coastal city and Special Economic Zone in Guangdong Province in China. It is located in the east of the province near the border with Fujian. It has a population of around 5,500,000 as of 2022 and a booming economy.

Shantou Halal Travel Guide

Shantou - Shantou Prefecture in red, Guangdong in white

The city came to prominence during the 19th century when it was established as one of the treaty ports for trading with the West. In the 1980s it was designated as one of China's Special Economic Zones with tax breaks and other government measures to encourage development. See List of Chinese provinces and regions for more detailed explanations of "treaty port" and "special economic zone" if required.

Overseas visitors are not common in the rural areas around Shantou, and those of non-Chinese ethnicity will definitely be an attraction to residents. Those unaccustomed to this may feel intimidated. However, this is a very friendly type of attention, and unless you really dislike interaction with people you don't know, this will almost certainly be a highlight of your trip. Do not be surprised if people want their picture taken with you, or if they yell to friends and family to come look at you as well. Any sort of communication you attempt to make, especially in the local Teochew phrasebook|Teochew dialect, will almost always be happily received.

Travel to Shantou

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Shantou

The airport which serves Shantou is called Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport (IATA Code: SWA) which in 2011 replaced Shantou Waisha Airport and hence the new airport uses the old airports IATA name, SWA, which has domestic connections with most of the major Chinese cities. It also serves international Flights to Hong Kong, Bangkok, Singapore, Taiwan, Province of China, Japan, etc.. One can take a taxi or airport express bus from the airport. The airport express bus drops passengers off in Shantou Railway Station, Golden Golf Hotel (Shantou-East line) and Oversea Chinese Hotel (Shantou-West Line). The price of the ticket is 20 CNY.

Via Guangzhou

Guangzhou Baiyun Airport (IATA Code: CAN) offers Intercity Bus service. You can stay at Shantou Tourist General Corporation.

Via Shenzhen

Shenzhen Bao'an Airport doesn't offer Intercity Bus service like Guangzhou. You can transfer via high speed railway from Shenzhen to Shantou.

Via Xiamen

There is also an airport in Xiamen.

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in Shantou

A high-speed High-speed rail in China|bullet train line connecting Xiamen to Shenzhen via Shantou is now in service. Beyond Xiamen, it continues along the coast all the way to Hangzhou and Shanghai. From the ends of that line and there are good connections almost anywhere in China. It will take about 2.5 hours from the Chaoshan High Speed Rail Station (the closest one to Shantou, about 1 hour from downtown by Bus #181, 10 Yuan) to Shenzhen North Station; 1.5 hours from Chaoshan High Speed Rail Station to Xiamen North Station. Public bus is available from Shantou downtown to the train station. The economy class ticket price from Shantou to Shenzhen is less than 100 CNY.

It is reported that Shantou Railway Station in Shantou Urban area will connect to the Xiamen-Shenzhen High speed railway at the end of 2017. The train station is now in refurbishing as of February 2017.

If you want to travel slowly or cheaply and the following choices may still be available:

no.	type	start	station	destination	total	terminal
K688	Quick, Air Conditioning	Chongqing	North Chongqing	Shantou	29h41min	Shantou
T8379/T8380	Express, Air Conditioning	Guangzhou	East Guangzhou	Shantou	8h6min	Shantou
K800	Quick, Air Conditioning	Wuhan	Wuchang	Shantou	18h30min	Shantou	By bus or car Zhuhai (8 hours, ¥260), Guangzhou, Shenzhen (4-5 hours, ¥250) or Xiamen (4 hours, ¥200). There is fairly new highway that is on par with U.S or European expressways running between Shenzhen and Shantou (and beyond). However, food and gas stops are limited so make sure your gas tank is full if you opt to pass a fueling station. Note that restrooms are far below GCC standards as well, particularly if you are female. Some Hong Kong residents prefer to drive these highways in groups of 3-4 cars, as robberies sometimes take place along the road. The Shantou Regency Hotel operates a coach service from Hong Kong. It takes 5.5 hours and costs ¥280 or HKD200. This can rise to HKD320 or ¥700 during the Lunar New Year period. Tickets can be purchased from the China Travel Service HK and one may board the bus in Sheung Wan, Yau Ma Tei or Fanling Station. How to get around in Shantou Shantou public buses can be highly variable and service frequency can depend on the whim of the operators, particularly during evening festival dates. Recorded announcements are made over the speaker system in Mandarin and Teochew, however the frequent use of the horn and general noise can make it difficult to understand. On many services, one needs to notify the bus driver verbally if they would like to alight as the buzzers are inoperable. Metered taxis exist, but rarely will the driver use the meter. The fare needs to be negotiated, preferably before the trip to avoid arguments later. Traffic in Shantou, as is common in this part of China, is chaotic at best. Do NOT expect vehicles to stop at red lights, as motorcycles and bicycles regularly go through red lights without slowing down. Also, do NOT expect vehicles to go with traffic, as cars, motorcycles, and bicycles regularly go AGAINST the flow of traffic (e.g. going southbound in a northbound lane). Furthermore, do NOT expect only pedestrians on sidewalks, as cars, motorcycles, and bicycles regularly zip along the sidewalk as if it is just another lane on the road. Also, watch out for motorcyclists who do not even slow down at red lights, with one hand on the steering handle and the other with a cell phone, talking. However, with all this and there are fewer accidents that one may expect given this chaos, mainly because people do slow down if they see you. There is self-service rented bike available in Shantou downtown, starting from early 2023. Tourist can use it to tour in the city area, and the rent rate is cheap. However, you may need to register in the Chinese bike renting apps on your mobile before you using it. What to see in Shantou Zhengguo Temple at Shantou - Zhenguo Temple The old town - Most of the lovely historic buildings are so dilapidated that it seems like a European city that has been bombed. They are slowly being torn down and replaced with ugly modern buildings, so see it while you can! The one section that is marked for preservation is the part that is next to the renovated post office and the Shantou Founding Museum (see below). Shantou Museum - 汕头博物馆 Shantou Bowuguan | This museum has the space for an impressive collection, but not all the exhibit halls are open. There are exhibits on Buddhist figurines and sculptures, paintings and calligraphy, ceramic wares, and relics recovered from a Ming Dynasty commercial vessel that was discovered in 2007 just a little way southeast of Shantou. Past temporary exhibits include photos of Shanghai of a bygone era, Buddhist Pagoda Mountain | In Chenhai Coastal defense fort 石炮台公園 - A fort by the sea, with replica cannons. You may be able to smell some interesting strains of mold inside, admire the moat and bridges, or go rollerskating in the middle of the fort (with Chinese techno music of course). The former residence of Chen Cihong 陈慈黉故居 - A mansion (or a mini-palace) built in the early 20th century, still pretty much intact. It was built in traditional Chinese style, with houses from one to three stories, with sloped tile roofs. People still live in many of these houses. Outside of the tourist center and museum and the parking lot, one can wander in the alleys to feel the atmosphere. For those that pan the ubiquitous residential highrises of modern Chinese cities and they really should get a reality check here to see what unadorned traditional housing was like: small, cramped quarters with few modern amenities (do they have indoor plumbing?), outhouses here and there, with occasional pungent smell of garbage in the sweltering summer. There is access to electricity, however, and one can hear the sounds of TV and radio while wandering in the alleys, and see an occasional A/C unit here and there. Nan'ao Island 南澳 - This is one of the most beautiful islands in China. It used to be inconvenient to go to the island, with ferries and boats the only modes of transport. All that changed with the opening of a new 9 kilometers bridge. The island still hasn't been overdeveloped and has kept its original view. Here you can not only get the most gorgeous sea view but also a taste of the real life of fishermen in China. Besides that, it is a fantastic place to taste all kinds of seafood. On this island, one can see a Song Dynasty fresh water well right on an ocean-front beach (宋井 Song Jin, Y 16) with the accompanying beach and park. There is the ancient military headquarter of the local island and coastal defense (总兵府 Zhong Bing Fu, Y 13), with a marker for the former border between Fujian and Guangdong provinces (the entire island is now in Guangdong province). Also see the wind-powered turbines on the mountains. The transportation in the island is not that convenient but you can hire a vehicle to drive you around it for whole day. The fee is usually cheap. It cost about 200-250 yuan a day. Bus #161a and #161b from Shantou will take you to the main town on this island (后宅 Hou Zhai) for Y 15 in 2016. From there you will need to find transportation to particular sites. Ferry services are also available but runs only about 5 times per day. Shantou Founding Museum 汕头开埠博物馆 (Shantou Kai Bubowuguan) | Not to be confused with Shantou Museum. This museum is devoted to the establishment of Swatow (Shantou) as a treaty port in the 19th century, and its subsequent history and daily life. Jin Yan Gate 进贤门 in Jieyang 揭阳 - An ancient monumental gate. Qing Yun Yan 青云岩 in DaHao 达濠 - Temples and a lake on a cemetery hill. DaHao Ancient Walled Park 达濠古城公园 - A rather small but beautifully landscaped park, enclosed by a thin ancient city wall. Best things to do in Shantou Muslim Friendly Shopping in Shantou Lotus supermarkets - There are at least four locations throughout the city. Suning Plaza Mall - A mall that just opened in October. 2015, with Pizzas Hut and the first and Starbucks (Please do not support Starbucks as Starbucks supports Israel. Shun this Coffee and go for alternative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned brand.) & Haagan Daz in Shantou. There are other cafes in this mall where one can enjoyfor Coffee. Lotus Center - Another mall that opened in 2015, with the second and Starbucks (Please do not support Starbucks as Starbucks supports Israel. Shun this Coffee and go for alternative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned brand.) to open in Shantou, and a Lotus supermarket in the basement. There are other places in this mall where one can enjoyfor their Coffee. Halal Restaurants in Shantou To be updated eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Shantou Shantou - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Shantou, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Shantou. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Shantou and its surrounding regions. With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Shantou. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values. The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Shantou. Key components include: Halal-Friendly Accommodations inShantou: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Shantou. Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Shantou: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Shantou, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Shantou. Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Shantou, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations. Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Shantou, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values. Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Shantou and beyond. Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Shantou, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Shantou, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Shantou without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients." The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Shantou is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Shantou. About eHalal Travel Group: eHalal Travel Group Shantou is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values. For Halal business inquiries in Shantou, please contact: eHalal Travel Group Shantou Media: info@ehalal.io Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Shantou eHalal Group Shantou is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Shantou. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Shantou. At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Shantou ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property. For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Shantou. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living. If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Shantou, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values. For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Shantou are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@ehalal.io Muslim Friendly Hotels Home Inn business hotels are a good choice for short and long term visitors. Rooms are new and clean and prices are around USD 45 per day. s.ehalal.io//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&26224&&Garden+Hotel+Shantou&hotelId=4824203&&.Zz8fec9ff630bd46 b797a3b6e-206204 Garden Hotel - The hotel is rated four stars, but is not on par with the same rank hotels in the Gulf. [https://+Junhua+Haiyi+Hotel&hotelId=738228&&.Zz683ffbb0b77b4c02b9b45c0-206204 Junhua Haiyi Hotel, Shantou Downtown. The hotel is rated four stars, managed by Meritus. [https://+Golden+Gulf+Hotel&hotelId=1264143&&.Zz3d86cc60c4684db59f91b58-206204 Golden Golf Hotel, Jinsha Road, Shantou Downtown. The hotel is rated four stars and established by 1990. [https://+International+Hotel&hotelId=538511&&.Zzf8185e91dbee49718d21cbf-206204 Shantou International Hotel, Jinsha Road, West of Shantou Downtown. The hotel is rated four stars, has 30 years history and refurbished & reopened in 2016. [https://+Shantou+Hotel&hotelId=13361942&&.Zzba831f7d7d504db6a314698-206204 Sheraton Shantou Hotel, Changping Road, Shantou Downtown and the hotel is rated five stars. [https://+Hotel+Shantou&hotelId=738229&&.Zz6a042567a1c7447e8a0e892-206204 Regency Hotel, Changping Road, East of Shantou Downtown. The hotel is rated five stars and close to Shantou Railway Station. Telecommunications in Shantou News & References Shantou Travel Next Chaozhou Xiamen Guangzhou Shenzhen Hong Kong Copyright 2015 - 2024. All Rights reserved by eHalal Group Co., Ltd. To Advertise or sponsor this Travel Guide, please visit our Media Kit and Advertising Rates.