This 4th tier city in Guangdong has some of the richest Hakka culture in all of China — yet almost no travelers come here. While everyone flocks to Beijing, Shanghai, or Shenzhen, Meizhou gets ignored. But we found ancient towns, Hakka tulou, hidden temples, and traditions you won’t see anywhere else. Is Meizhou too “local” for tourists? Too far off the beaten path? Or is it simply one of the last authentic parts of China that hasn’t been overrun by mass tourism? We spent 4 days here to find out.
Jack and Sophia explore Meizhou, an underrated Hakka cultural hub in Guangdong. They uncover ancient traditions, unique local life, and rich history, offering an authentic travel experience.
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Embark on an unforgettable journey with Jack and Sophia Torr to Meizhou, a hidden gem in Guangdong often bypassed by travelers. Discover the profound Hakka culture, from ancient towns and unique marriage traditions to the intriguing Hakka language. Witness local entrepreneurship, sample unique snacks, and explore the Hakka Museum to understand their rich history and global migration. Meizhou offers an authentic glimpse into China's soul, far from the usual tourist trails.
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21 min
2025
Meizhou Travel: Underrated Hakka Culture & Ancient Towns in Guangdong
This 4th tier city in Guangdong has some of the richest Hakka culture in all of China — yet almost no travelers come here. While everyone flocks to Beijing, Shanghai, or Shenzhen, Meizhou gets ignored. But we found ancient towns, Hakka tulou, hidden temples, and traditions you won’t see anywhere...
Meizhou Travel: Uncovering Hakka Culture in Underrated Guangdong City
Embark on a journey to Meizhou, a hidden gem in Guangdong, China, often overlooked by tourists. This video unveils the city's rich Hakka culture, ancient towns, and serene temples, offering a glimpse into authentic local life. Discover why this 4th-tier city remains a sanctuary from mass tourism, preserving traditions and a unique way of life. Join the exploration of Meizhou's untouched beauty and captivating heritage.
Attractions in this video: Ancient City, Hakka Museum, Hakka Park, Old Quarter, Marriage Store, Local Square, Shrine
More about the current video:(Published on 2025-09-23)
This video takes viewers on an immersive journey into Meizhou, a lesser-known city in China's Guangdong province, often overlooked by mainstream tourism. Jack and Sophia Torr explore this "fourth tier" city, delving into its rich Hakka culture and history. They begin their adventure in the ancient city, marveling at local shops selling traditional items and flags, noting the peaceful atmosphere compared to bustling metropolises like Shenzhen or Guangzhou. A fascinating aspect highlighted is the unique Hakka language, a blend of Mandarin and Cantonese, which surprises the travelers. They encounter a "marriage store," a unique establishment dedicated to wedding essentials, and learn about the tradition of gifting chickens for weddings. The exploration continues through the old quarter, revealing a vibrant mix of shops, from bubble tea stalls to hardware stores, showcasing authentic local life. One particularly memorable encounter is with an entrepreneur who ingeniously sells both snacks and plumbing supplies, embodying a spirit of resourcefulness. The travelers also sample a unique dessert, described as having a jelly-like texture with a soap-like aroma but a sweet taste. The Hakka Museum provides deeper insights into the Hakka people's history, migration patterns across Asia, and their cultural traditions, including architectural influences reminiscent of Balinese and Nepalese styles. The significance of Meizhou as the largest centralized Hakka population area is emphasized. The journey highlights the Hakka people's global diaspora, explaining the presence of Chinese influence in Southeast Asian countries. The couple also discovers handmade bowls, appreciating the craftsmanship and value. The experience underscores Meizhou's appeal as an authentic destination, offering a glimpse into traditions and local interactions rarely found in more tourist-heavy cities.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
Q: What is the Hakka language like?
A: It's a fascinating mix between Mandarin and Cantonese, with some unique words thrown in.
Q: What's unique about the marriage stores in Meizhou?
A: They sell everything needed for traditional Hakka weddings, and gifting chickens is a custom.
Q: What was the most surprising entrepreneurial spirit seen?
A: A lady selling snacks also sold plumbing gear, showing great resourcefulness when one business is slow.
Q: What did the cherry cake-like dessert taste like?
A: It had a thick jelly texture that smelled like soap but tasted sweet and amazing.
Q: What is the significance of Meizhou regarding Hakka people?
A: It's the largest centralized area of Hakka people and where the most authentic Hakka language is spoken.
Q: What architectural influences were noted at the Hakka Museum?
A: The beams reminded us of Balinese architecture, and there were vibes of Nepalese architecture with lotus flowers.
Q: What was a favorite part of learning about Hakka history?
A: Seeing how Hakka leaders migrated overseas, explaining the Chinese influence in countries like Malaysia and Indonesia.
Q: Were the handmade bowls a good purchase?
A: Yes, they were handmade for about $14, which felt like a great price for such unique items.
