Location & Transportation
Chimelong Heritage Village sits in Pingshan District of Shenzhen, near the intersection of Henglong Road and Jinsha Road. It’s a hidden gem that feels tucked away from the city buzz, yet easy to reach. To get there:
- Metro: Take Line 14 to “Jianshe Lu” station, then a 10-minute taxi ride.
- Bus: Routes M487 and M592 drop you within walking distance.
- Car: Drive along Nanping Expressway, turn onto Henglong Road, and follow signs. Free parking is available—perfect for road trips!
Natural Surroundings
Surrounded by hills and greenery, Chimelong Heritage Village feels like a breath of fresh air. Nearby, you’ll find Mabian Mountain (Ma Lian Shan) for hiking or the Xinghui River for picnics. The village itself blends into this lush landscape, with traditional buildings nestled among trees and gardens. Visit on a sunny day, and you’ll see locals chatting under ancient banyan trees—a true slice of Shenzhen’s natural charm.
Cultural Highlights
Chimelong Heritage Village is all about preserving Hakka culture. The star attraction is its Hakka Tulou (earthen houses), round structures built over 200 years ago. Walk inside to spot wooden carvings, family祠堂 (ancestral halls), and courtyards where elders share stories. Don’t miss the Cultural Exhibition Hall, which uses photos and artifacts to explain Hakka history. For a fun touch, try your hand at traditional activities like rice cake making or bamboo weaving—guides here are super friendly and patient!
Must-See Spots
- Old Houses: Wander narrow lanes lined with century-old homes. Some are restored, others still inhabited—peek inside to see how locals live.
- Dragon Dance Plaza: A open space where festivals happen. If you’re lucky, catch a lion dance performance (they love audience participation!).
- Moon Lake: A small pond with lotus flowers and a pavilion—great for sunset photos.
Practical Tips
- Food: Try Hakka dishes like “niangyuan” (sweet glutinous rice balls) or “leicha” (tea with herbs) at the village’s snack stalls.
- Souvenirs: Buy handwoven bamboo baskets or Hakka embroidery—prices are fair, and vendors love to chat.
- Restrooms & Wi-Fi: Clean facilities and free Wi-Fi are available near the entrance.
What to Expect
A visit to Chimelong Heritage Village feels like stepping back in time. Unlike busy tourist spots, it’s calm and authentic. Spend 2-3 hours exploring, or combine it with a trip to nearby Dapeng Peninsula for beaches. Bring sunscreen, comfy shoes, and a curiosity for history. And yes—don’t forget to snap photos of those iconic earthen houses!
Pro Tip: Weekends get crowded, so weekdays are best for peaceful strolls. And say “nihao” to the locals—they’re used to visitors but love friendly greetings!