Kaiping Diaolou
The Kaiping Diaolou are located in Kaiping City, under the jurisdiction of Jiangmen. They are a special type of Chinese vernacular architecture that combines defense and living,…
Kaiping Diaolou, Guangzhou · AI illustration for China Trip
Key facts
- Admission
- Combined ticket ¥180 (includes Liyuan ¥100; Zili Village Diaolou Cluster ¥78; Majianglong Diaolou Cluster ¥50), valid for two days
- Opening hours
- 8：30—17：30
- Time needed
- 1 day
- Getting there
- Many buses run from Kaiping to the famous diaolou and residential sites. You can take a bus from Guangzhou to Kaiping city first, then continue from there. Driving yourself is the most convenient option.
- Guidebook rating
- 5 / 5
From China Self Guided Travel 2025, page 2327. Open in Google Maps
About Kaiping Diaolou
The Kaiping Diaolou are located in Kaiping City, under the jurisdiction of Jiangmen. They are a special type of Chinese vernacular architecture that combines defense and living, blending Chinese and Western styles with features of ancient Greek, ancient Roman and Islamic architecture. They have been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
According to research, the Kaiping Diaolou first appeared in the 16th century. Today's clusters include Zili Village, Majianglong and Jinjiangli, along with the Liyuan garden and the Chikan Ancient Town. The towers' architectural styles and decorative arts are wonderfully varied and truly breathtaking.
Tips from the guidebook
- Zili Village Diaolou Cluster
- Zili Village has the most concentrated group of diaolou in the Kaiping scenic area, with 15 towers in the “Nine Towers and Six Cottages” arrangement. Each has a distinct and exquisitely crafted design. The towers are built among ponds and bamboo groves, with a harmonious, staggered layout and a strong Lingnan rural charm.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Kaiping Diaolou cost?
Admission to Kaiping Diaolou is Combined ticket ¥180 (includes Liyuan ¥100; Zili Village Diaolou Cluster ¥78; Majianglong Diaolou Cluster ¥50), valid for two days, as listed in the 2025 guidebook. Prices can change; check the official channel before you go.
What are the opening hours of Kaiping Diaolou?
Kaiping Diaolou is open 8：30—17：30.
How do I get to Kaiping Diaolou?
Many buses run from Kaiping to the famous diaolou and residential sites. You can take a bus from Guangzhou to Kaiping city first, then continue from there. Driving yourself is the most convenient option.
How long should I spend at Kaiping Diaolou?
Plan on 1 day for Kaiping Diaolou.
Where is Kaiping Diaolou?
Kaiping Diaolou is in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, in the South China of China.
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