Little Park Opening Area Travel Guide
Zhongshan Memorial Pavilion · Arcade Buildings · Shantou Old Town
The Small Park is the old town center formed after the opening of Shantou, with the Zhongshan Memorial Pavilion as the center, from which several arcade streets radiate. It is one of the best-preserved, radiating-pattern port areas in China, and has become lively again after recent renovations.
This site only handles information compilation and itinerary design; prices and bookings are based on final confirmation.
Destination Details
Shantou opened as a port in 1860, and the old town gradually formed around the "Small Park." At the center is the Zhongshan Memorial Pavilion, built in 1934. Five arcade streets radiate outward from the pavilion, forming a rare fan-shaped street network—this layout is uncommon among modern Chinese commercial ports.
Main Highlights
Zhongshan Memorial Pavilion
The pavilion has an octagonal pointed roof, red pillars, and green tiles, built in 1934. It is the geometric center of the entire old town and a landmark agreed upon by Shantou residents. "Meet at the Small Park" is a shared memory for several generations.
Arcade Buildings
Along the radiating streets, arcade buildings stretch continuously on both sides. The lower floors feature continuous corridors that provide shade and shelter from rain; upstairs are residences, with façades decorated in a mix of Western pediments, arches, and Chinese gray plaster, representing typical Sino-Western commercial-residential architecture. After recent renovation, the façades have been restored to their original appearance, looking especially beautiful when lit at night.
Old Shops and Local Life
In the streets, there are still sites of old department stores, pharmacies, tea shops, and street food stalls. It is recommended to try a bowl of Chaoshan rice noodles or sweet soup along the way—the lively atmosphere of the old town is captured in these shops.
Suggested Route
- Classic: Zhongshan Memorial Pavilion → Anping Road Arcades → Shengping Road → Guoping Road → Old Town Snacks, about 1.5 hours.
- Combine with the Overseas Chinese Document Museum, Chen Cihong Former Residence, and Nan'ao Island for a one- or two-day Shantou trip.
Practical Information
The Small Park is in the old town area of Shantou, easily accessible by bus or taxi. The old town streets are narrow and very crowded on holidays, so it is recommended to visit on weekday mornings. Some streets are still under construction after renovations, so the accessible sections on the day should be checked on-site.
