Tucked away in Jiangmen City, the fortress towers (diaolou) and villages of Kaiping are a breathtaking fusion of East and West—where Chinese tradition meets European flair. These towering structures, crowned a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, once served as homes, fortresses, and flood shelters for their communities. Today, 1,833 of these architectural marvels still stand across 15 towns, whispering stories of early 20th-century life and the vibrant huaqiao (overseas Chinese) culture that shaped them.
But Kaiping doesn't just preserve history—it brings it to life. At the Pastoral Diaolou Market, lively stalls burst with local crafts, farm-fresh produce, and cultural treasures. Inside the fortress towers, harvest-themed installations transport visitors back in time, while an interactive treasure hunt turns exploration into an adventure, weaving tales of daring migrants and age-old traditions.
Travelers rave about these experiences, calling Kaiping more than just a scenic stop—it's a journey through time, where heritage, resilience, and beauty leave an unforgettable mark.