Jiangmen Eco-Gastronomy: Tangerine Peels to Twin Islands
Beyond the Diaolou: Unlocking century-old banyans, rare hot springs, and island resorts
When mentioning Jiangmen, most think of the UNESCO Kaiping Diaolou. But the charm of China's primary hometown of overseas Chinese extends far beyond. From the literary "Bird Paradise" to the highly prized Xinhui tangerine peel, Jiangmen's ecology and produce are incredibly rich.
Jiangmen is highly underrated. Beyond the world-famous Kaiping Diaolou (watchtowers), the districts of Xinhui and Taishan harbor treasures well worth deep exploration.
The Taste of Time in Xinhui: Chenpi and the Ancient Banyan
The journey begins in Xinhui District. There is a Cantonese saying: "Guangdong has three treasures: Chenpi, old ginger, and straw." Xinhui is the absolute authentic origin of Chenpi (sun-dried tangerine peel). Entering the Xinhui Chenpi Village, the air is thick with a rich citrus fragrance. Not only can you see spectacular drying yards and century-old shops, but it is also a foodie's paradise. A "Chenpi Banquet" at a local farm is highly recommended—crispy roast goose infused with tangerine peel and sweet red bean soup with aged peel will leave an unforgettable lingering taste.
After a satisfying meal, we head nearby to Bird Paradise, made nationally famous by the literary master Ba Jin. Astoundingly, this massive "forest" is actually formed by a single water banyan tree that has grown for nearly 400 years, its aerial roots creating a solitary wood. Taking a small boat through the intricate roots while watching tens of thousands of egrets and herons flying overhead is a rare ecological spectacle.
Taishan's Azure Seas and Yamen's Springs
Leaving Xinhui, we drive to Taishan City, boasting a long coastline, to catch a ferry to the Shangchuan and Xiachuan Islands, often dubbed the "Hawaii of the East." These twin islands have distinctly different vibes. Shangchuan is rich in history with Maritime Silk Road ruins and the pristine Flying Sand Beach, while Xiachuan is bursting with a tropical resort atmosphere, swaying palm trees, and endless seafood stalls—perfect for beach ATVs and seafood feasts.
After the island carnival, we return inland to the Gudou Hot Spring Resort in Yamen Town, Xinhui. This resort boasts an extremely rare geological phenomenon: "One Place, Two Springs." Within the same resort, you can soak in mineral-rich "Ocean Hot Springs" (saltwater) and "Radon Hot Springs" (freshwater). Soaking away your fatigue in Tang Dynasty or Japanese-style pools is the most perfect conclusion to this Jiangmen journey.
Xinhui Chenpi Village and Bird Paradise are close to each other. Take the high-speed rail to Xinhui Station, then a 15-minute taxi ride. To reach the Taishan Twin Islands, drive or take a bus to Shanzui Port to catch a ferry. Gudou Hot Spring Resort is further out, so driving is recommended.
The older the Xinhui Chenpi, the more expensive it is; ensure you check for authenticity labels to avoid fakes. The best time for bird watching at Bird Paradise is early morning or dusk. Ferries to the Taishan islands are suspended during typhoons or rough seas, so check the weather and port announcements before departing.