Situated to the west is Dapeng Fortress, and the 600-year-old ancient town are some of Shenzhen’s most hallowed historical treasures. The fortress was the site of one of the key battles in the country’s infamous opium wars.
The day begins with a tour of the fort, an exceptionally well preserved example of a Ming Dynasty fortification first built in 1394. The purpose of the Dapeng Fort was to protect the approaches to the Pearl River mainly from pirates, but later the fort developed into a small town and today provides an excellent example of a fortified Ming Dynasty township.
The morning also includes a visit to a private museum set in a traditional courtyard house, followed by a local Hakka lunch traditionally prepared by the local community.
After lunch there is be a hands-on session on making traditional rice cookies, followed by a walk through the winding alleyways of the town.
The day concludes with two options; a visit to the Dongshan Temple or Chinese paper fan making. The Dongshan Temple dates back over 600 years but has been rebuilt and contains exquisite sculptures, carvings and paintings.
Stanley Shea, an experienced freelance guide. His tours draw on bringing people to off the beaten track places in China. These include hands-on cultural activities and local interaction to provide an authentic and immersive travel experience. He has guided small groups for the last 4 years and has extensive experience designing tours for various groups including the AWA (American Women’s Association). His signature tours have included glamping with the Tibetan nomads and singing with the traditional rice cookies, Dong minority in Guizhou. He is from Hong Kong and studied engineering in the US with experience working in Singapore and Japan.
Itinerary:
08:00 Central, with transportation provided by private minibus
10:30 Guided tour of Dapeng Fortress
11:30 Private local museum tour
12:00 Traditional Hakka lunch
13:00 Hands-on session making traditional rice cookies
14:00 Walking tour of the town
14:45 Dongshan temple visit or hands-on session of traditional Chinese paper fan painting
16:00 Depart Dapeng
18:30 Arrive at City Hall, Central
Cost $1,300 per member; if you wish to bring guests please email the RGS.
Children are welcome.
Please note China visa/ valid travel permit is required. Please apply by yourself and personal travel insurance is highly recommended.
In view of the limited places, early booking is advised. To reserve places, please email the RGS HK on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. You'll then receive from the RGS booking instructions, a booking form and detailed joining instructions. Please note that this field trip must be pre-booked.