Qi’ao Village, Zhuhai, China

Qi’ao Village is located on Qi’ao Island in Guangdong province of China, it is the main village on the island. Qi’ao Island is a tourist destination rich in natural scenery and cultural heritage, suitable for cultural tourism, family trips, and eco-tours.

Qi’ao Village was established in the Southern Song Dynasty (1244), and the village is affiliated with Tangjia Town, Xiangzhou District, Zhuhai City of Guangdong Province, with its earliest residents mainly migrating from Fujian and Taiwan. Qi’ao Village itself is a traditional settlement renowned for its distinct Lingnan water town charm, featuring well-preserved ancient architecture and rich folk cultural resources. In 2015, Qi’ao Village was designated as a traditional village in Guangdong Province. 

Highlights of Qi’ao Village (Qi’ao Island):

• Qi’ao Mangrove Nature Reserve:
  Qi’ao Mangrove Nature Reserve is a type of coastal wetland & protected mangrove ecosystem, it contains approximately 2–3 square kilometers of tidal flats, channels, and mangrove forest. Mangroves are not a single species but a special plant community adapted to high salinity, low oxygen, and tidal conditions. They breathe through aerial roots and reproduce viviparously, allowing their seedlings to mature on the parent plant before taking root. This unique survival strategy enables mangroves to serve as an ecological bridge between the ocean and the land, earning them the title of “Coastal Guardians.” On this wetland, more than 150 species of birds, dozens of fish species, and various crustaceans thrive. The period from October to March of the following year is the prime time for bird watching on Qi’ao Island.

• Mr. Su Zhaozheng’s Former Residence Exhibition Hall:
  Su Zhaozheng (1885–1929) was a prominent early Chinese labor movement leader and revolutionary figure. He was born on Qi’ao Island, and is one of the island’s most historically important figures.The exhibition hall is housed in a quaint traditional residence within the village, blending architectural styles of Cantonese and Hakka influences. With its blue bricks, dark tiles, carved beams, and painted rafters, it showcases the unique charm of Lingnan’s traditional dwellings. The interior of the exhibition hall features a diverse collection, including a wealth of historical photographs, physical artifacts, documentary manuscripts, and multimedia displays. These elements comprehensively recreate the life and revolutionary journey of Mr. Su Zhaozheng.

• Baishi Street:
  Baishi Street, located on Qi’ao Island, is a granite-paved street approximately 2 kilometers long. It was constructed in 1833 using 3,000 taels of silver paid as compensation by British colonists after their military defeat. The street retains the original charm of a fishing village, with bluestone pavements complementing residential buildings featuring blue doors and green walls. Wall decorations include elements such as graffiti art and wood-carved inscriptions. Along the street, visitors can find creative businesses like handicraft shops and cafes.
  As an open-access attraction, Baishi Street is free to the public all day, with a recommended visit duration of about one hour. Nearby ecological tourism resources include the Mangrove Nature Reserve and Lingge Park.

When to visit: The best time to visit Qi’ao Island is from October to December for pleasant temperatures: 20–27°C; low humidity and less rainfall; clear skies — perfect for biking, hiking, and visiting historical villages and not too crowded compared to summer. For bird lovers, this is also the best time for bird-watching.

How to get there: 

• By train: Zhuhai is well connected by trains. Get off at Tangjiawan Train Station of Zhuhai, then take taxi or DiDi, it’s about 20–35 minutes depending on traffic, cost around ¥35–¥60 and you’ll be dropped directly at Qi’ao Village, which sits near the island’s central area and attractions.
• By bus: Bus Route 86, runs from Tangjiawan → Qi’ao Village, bus fare: ¥1–¥3, but expect around 30 minutes of wait time.

Where to stay: Qi’ao Island is easily a one-day trip from Zhuhai, and can be a weekend trip from cities like Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Hongkong. There are a few places to stay on Qi’ao Island. Because it’s still fairly rural and low-key, most accommodations are small guesthouses or homestays rather than big hotels. Check here for accommodations.