Shantou Guangdong, China Travel Guide
Summer (June-September): Expect hot and humid weather, with average temperatures ranging from 28°C to 33°C (82°F to 91°F). This period sees high rainfall and humidity, often between 80-90%.
Winter (January-February): Temperatures are mild and the air is relatively dry. Average temperatures range from 13°C to 19°C (55°F to 66°F). Occasional colder fronts can bring a chill.
Autumn (October-December): This is generally the most pleasant season. The weather turns warm and drier, with average temperatures from 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 81°F). Humidity levels drop, making outdoor activities comfortable.
Spring (March-May): The weather grows warmer and more humid, with increasing rainfall. Average temperatures are from 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F).
General Sightseeing and Outdoor Activities: Autumn (October-December) is ideal. The mild, dry weather makes walking through Shantou Old Town, exploring Zhongshan Park, or hiking in Queshi Scenic Area very enjoyable.
Beach Activities (Nan'ao Island): Late Spring (May) and early Autumn (September-October) offer warm water temperatures suitable for swimming and sunbathing, largely avoiding the peak typhoon season and most extreme summer heat. Cultural Exploration: Autumn and Winter provide comfortable conditions for a visit to museums, attending Teochew opera performances, or savoring the local cuisine without oppressive heat or humidity.
June to October
Heavy rains, strong winds, travel disruptions possible.
Check the local weather closely.
May to September
High humidity and heavy, sometimes prolonged, rainfall.
Bring appropriate rain gear.
Summer often above 35°C (95°F)
Direct sun exposure challenging in the middle of the day.
Stay hydrated, seek shade.
Shantou is within the typhoon belt, with the season running from From june To october, peaking in July-September. Typhoons bring heavy rains, strong winds, and can cause significant travel delays or cancellations. Monitor local weather forecasts closely if traveling in these months.
From may To september experiences the East Asian monsoon, characterized by high humidity and heavy, sometimes prolonged, rainfall. Summer temperatures often exceed 35°C (95°F), making direct sun exposure challenging around noon.
Always check official warnings about the weather and adjust plans accordingly.
Keep a Light umbrella or rain jacket handy for monsoon season.
Drink plenty of water in summer to prevent dehydration.
Wear Sunscreen and hats during peak sun hours.
Consider flexible bookings during the typhoon season.
Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter mainland China, including Shantou.
The L-visa (Tourist Visa) is the most common visa type for visitors to China. You must submit an application form, your passport, a recent photograph, flight and hotel bookings, and a detailed itinerary to a Chinese embassy or a consulate in your home nation. Alternatively, you can apply through a China Visa Application Service Center (CVASC). Standard processing typically takes 4 business days, with express options for 1-3 business days. Plan ahead, as these times do not include mailing.
Gathering the correct documents makes for a smoother process. This encompasses your passport (valid for 6 months beyond entry, 2 blank pages), a completed online visa application form, one recent passport-style color photo (48x33mm, white background), and evidence of legal stay if applying outside your home country. Provide copies of previous Chinese visas if applicable. Round-trip flight tickets and hotel reservations for your entire stay, along with a detailed day-by-day itinerary, are also helpful.
Need to make your... more efficient visa application? Consider these services:
These are estimated daily costs and can vary based on your choices and current exchange rates. (Approx. USD $1 = CNY 7.2)
The official currency of China is the Renminbi (RMB), with the basic unit being the Yuan (¥ or CNY). Banknotes come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 Yuan. Coins include 1 Yuan, 5 Jiao (0.5 Yuan), and 1 Jiao (0.1 Yuan). Major international credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted at most major hotels, large department stores, and international restaurants.
WeChat Pay (微信支付) and Alipay (支付宝) are the dominant payment methods for daily transactions in China. You can link an international credit card to these apps or use a foreign currency tour card. Setting up these apps before your trip is strongly recommended. Currency exchange is is available at the main banks (Bank of China, ICBC, Agricultural Bank of China), and at Shantou Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport. Large hotels may also offer exchange services, often at less favorable rates. ATMs are easy to find and accept international cards (Cirrus, Plus networks).
Daily Cost: CNY 200-400 ($28-56)
Accommodation: Hostel bed, budget hotel (CNY 80-150)
Meals: Street food, local eateries (CNY 15-40/meal)
Daily Cost: CNY 400-800 ($56-112)
Accommodation: 3-4 star hotel (CNY 300-600)
Meals: Mid-range restaurants (CNY 50-150/meal)
Daily Cost: CNY 800+ ($112+)
Accommodation: 5-star hotel (CNY 600+)
Meals: Fine dining (CNY 200+/meal)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodations (per night) | CNY 80-300 | CNY 300-600+ |
| Meals (per person) | CNY 15-40 | CNY 50-150+ |
| Transportation (local) | CNY 2-5 | CNY 10-30+ |
Shantou is generally a safe city, but awareness and preparation are always recommended.
For entry to China from most countries, unless arriving from a yellow fever endemic region.
At least 4-6 ahead of your trip for tailored recommendations.
Routine vaccinations, Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid (especially for street food/rural areas).
Travel insurance is highly recommended for all travelers to Shantou.
A comprehensive policy should cover medical emergencies (hospital stays, visits to the doctor, emergency treatment), emergency evacuation (to a higher-standard facility or repatriation), trip disruption coverage (for unforeseen events), and lost/delayed luggage (compensation for baggage issues).
Consider providers like World Nomads for adventurous travel or SafetyWing for digital nomads.
These policies provide financial security and peace of mind.
Shantou has several large public hospitals (e.g., First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College). Facilities vary; major hospitals in urban areas provide better care. English-speaking staff are not guaranteed.
Police: 110, Fire: 119, Ambulance: 120. These numbers are nationwide and free to call.
Consider treatment in larger cities like Guangzhou or Hong Kong special administrative region if feasible for very serious conditions.
Directly consuming tap water is not recommended anywhere in China. Always opt for bottled water, that is readily available. Alternatively, boil tap water thoroughly before drinking. Exercise caution with street food. Look for stalls that are busy, indicating quality and high turnover. Observe preparation practices. Eat cooked food while it is still hot. Frequently wash your hands.
Travel ailments can occur. Stay vigilant with food and water. Air quality varies, check AQI. Summer heat requires hydration. Insect-borne diseases like Dengue fever exist in Guangdong Province.
Drink bottled/boiled water, avoid raw food, choose hygienic vendors.
Check AQI, use an N95 mask on high pollution days.
Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, avoid midday sun in summer.
