Introduction
Shuidong Street, located in Qiaodong Subdistrict, Huicheng District, Huizhou City, Guangdong Province, is the oldest commercial street in Huizhou with a history of over 1,000 years dating back to the Northern Song Dynasty. As one of the most iconic cultural landmarks in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, it perfectly blends well-preserved Lingnan arcade architecture, traditional Hakka culture, and modern nightlife, making it a must-visit destination for both international travelers and families.
What makes Shuidong Street truly unique is its transformation from an ancient trading port to a vibrant cultural and entertainment district. Unlike overdeveloped commercial streets in other Chinese cities, it has retained its authentic historical charm while offering family-friendly facilities, international dining options, and interactive cultural experiences. For international travelers, it provides a window into traditional Lingnan life with English-language signage and services. For families, it offers a safe, walkable environment with plenty of activities to keep children of all ages entertained, from cultural workshops to street performances.
Location & Family-Friendly Access
Shuidong Street is strategically located in the heart of Huizhou, just a 10-minute walk from Huizhou West Lake and a 5-minute walk from West Lake East Railway Station, making it extremely accessible for both domestic and international travelers.
High-Speed Train (Most Convenient for International Families)
Take the high-speed train to West Lake East Railway Station, which offers direct services from major cities in the Greater Bay Area:
- Guangzhou South: 1 hour
- Shenzhen North: 40 minutes
- Hong Kong West Kowloon: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Dongguan: 45 minutes
From West Lake East Railway Station, simply walk east along Xidi Road for 5 minutes to reach the main entrance of Shuidong Street. The entire route is flat and stroller-friendly, with clear English signage along the way.
Self-Driving (Most Flexible for Families)
Self-driving is a popular option for families visiting Shuidong Street, especially for those combining it with a trip to Huizhou West Lake.
- From Shenzhen: Approximately 1.5 hours via the Shenzhen-Huizhou Expressway
- From Guangzhou: Approximately 2 hours via the Guangzhou-Huizhou Expressway
- From Hong Kong: Approximately 2.5 hours via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge
Family Parking Information:
- Shuidong Street Underground Parking Lot: The most convenient option, with 800 spaces located directly beneath the street. Rates: ¥5 CNY per hour, ¥30 CNY maximum per day.
- West Lake East Railway Station Parking Lot: 5-minute walk away, with 500 spaces. Rates: ¥4 CNY per hour.
- Designated family parking spaces are available near the elevators in all parking lots.
- Electric vehicle charging stations are available in the underground parking lot.
Public Transportation
- Buses: Routes 1, 3, 6, 8, 13, 14, and 24 stop directly at Shuidong Street Station. Low-floor buses with space for strollers are available on all routes.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available throughout Huizhou and can drop you off directly at the main entrance.
Ticket Prices & Opening Hours
One of the best things about Shuidong Street for families is that admission to the entire street is completely free! This makes it an affordable destination for families of all sizes. Below is a list of optional paid attractions and their prices:
表格
| Attraction | Adult Ticket | Child Ticket (1.2-1.5m) | Senior Ticket (60-69) | Free Entry | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shuidong Street | Free | Free | Free | Everyone | 24 hours |
| Hejiang Tower | ¥20 CNY | ¥10 CNY | ¥10 CNY | Children under 1.2m, seniors over 70 | 09:00-21:30 |
| Dongpo Memorial Hall | Free | Free | Free | Everyone | 09:00-17:30 (closed Mondays) |
| Hakka Culture Museum | Free | Free | Free | Everyone | 09:00-17:00 (closed Mondays) |
| Dongjiang River Cruise | ¥80 CNY | ¥40 CNY | ¥40 CNY | Children under 1.2m | 10:00-21:30 |
| Traditional Handicraft Workshops | ¥30-80 CNY per person | Same as adult | Same as adult | N/A | 10:00-22:00 |
Important Notes:
- The street is most lively from 17:00 to 23:00 when the lights are on and all shops and restaurants are open
- The light show on Hejiang Tower takes place every evening at 19:30, 20:30, and 21:30
- Most attractions accept credit cards, WeChat Pay, and Alipay, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases
Top Attractions for International Families
Shuidong Street offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to both international travelers interested in Chinese culture and families with children of all ages. Below are our top recommendations:
1. Lingnan Arcade Architecture (Best for Photography & Cultural Exploration)
Shuidong Street is famous for its well-preserved Lingnan arcade buildings, which were built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These unique buildings feature covered walkways that provide shade from the sun and shelter from the rain, making them perfect for strolling with children.
Family Highlights:
- Architectural Details: Point out the intricate carvings, colorful murals, and decorative balconies to children. Each building has its own unique design, reflecting the different trading companies that once occupied them.
- Covered Walkways: The covered walkways make exploring the street comfortable even in hot or rainy weather, which is a big plus for families with young children.
- Photo Opportunities: The street offers endless photo opportunities, from the colorful facades of the buildings to the traditional lanterns that hang overhead. The best time for photos is in the evening when the lights are on.
- English Signage: All buildings and attractions have English-language signs explaining their history and significance, making it easy for international travelers to understand.
Tips for Families:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking
- Bring a hat and sunscreen for daytime visits
- The street can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so consider visiting on a weekday if possible
2. Hejiang Tower & Dongjiang River View (Best for Panoramic Views & Light Shows)
Hejiang Tower is the iconic landmark of Shuidong Street, located at the confluence of the Dongjiang River and Xizhi River. Originally built in the Tang Dynasty, it has been rebuilt several times and now stands 48 meters tall with seven floors.
Family Highlights:
- Panoramic Views: Climb to the top of the tower for breathtaking 360-degree views of Huizhou, including Huizhou West Lake, the Dongjiang River, and the surrounding mountains. The stairs are wide and gradual, making it manageable for children aged 5 and above.
- Light Show: The nightly light show on Hejiang Tower is a must-see for families. The 15-minute show features colorful lights projected onto the tower, accompanied by traditional Chinese music. Children will love the magical atmosphere.
- River Cruise: Take a 30-minute Dongjiang River cruise from the dock below Hejiang Tower. The cruise offers beautiful views of the river and the city skyline, and is especially popular in the evening when the lights are on.
- Cultural Exhibits: The lower floors of the tower feature exhibits about the history of Huizhou and the Dongjiang River, with English translations available.
Tips for Families:
- Arrive early to get a good spot for the light show
- The river cruise is especially recommended for families with young children, as it’s a relaxing way to see the city
- There are rest areas on each floor of the tower for tired little legs
3. Dongpo Memorial Hall (Best for Cultural Learning)
The Dongpo Memorial Hall is dedicated to Su Dongpo, the great Northern Song Dynasty poet who lived in Huizhou for three years. Su Dongpo is one of the most famous figures in Chinese history, and his time in Huizhou had a profound impact on the city’s culture and development.
Family Highlights:
- Interactive Exhibits: The museum features interactive exhibits in both Chinese and English that teach visitors about Su Dongpo’s life, his poetry, and his contributions to Huizhou. Children will love the touchscreens and multimedia displays.
- Traditional Garden: The museum is surrounded by a beautiful traditional Chinese garden with ponds, pavilions, and rockeries. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll and a rest break.
- Calligraphy Workshop: The museum offers regular calligraphy workshops for children and adults. Children can learn how to write Chinese characters with a brush and take their creations home as souvenirs.
- Poetry Readings: Traditional poetry readings are held on weekends, with English translations available.
Tips for Families:
- Allocate at least 1 hour to visit the museum
- The museum is air-conditioned, making it a great place to escape the midday heat
- Admission is free, but you need to show your passport or ID card to enter
4. Hakka Culture Experience Zone (Best for Authentic Cultural Immersion)
Huizhou is home to the Hakka people, a unique ethnic group with a rich culture and history. The Hakka Culture Experience Zone in Shuidong Street offers visitors a chance to learn about Hakka culture through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
Family Highlights:
- Hakka Architecture: The zone features reconstructed Hakka houses, complete with traditional furniture and decorations. Children can explore the houses and learn about how Hakka families lived.
- Traditional Crafts: Watch demonstrations of traditional Hakka crafts such as bamboo weaving, paper cutting, and embroidery. Children can even try their hand at some of these crafts under the guidance of skilled artisans.
- Hakka Cuisine: Sample traditional Hakka dishes such as Hakka tofu, salt-baked chicken, and stuffed bitter melon at the restaurants in the zone.
- Cultural Performances: Traditional Hakka music and dance performances are held on weekends, providing a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
Tips for Families:
- The craft workshops are very popular with children, so arrive early to book a spot
- Most demonstrations are free, but some workshops charge a small fee
- English-speaking guides are available upon request
5. Food Street (Best for Culinary Adventures)
Shuidong Street is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of traditional Huizhou and Cantonese dishes, as well as international cuisine. The food street is located in the central part of the street, with dozens of restaurants and street food stalls to choose from.
Family Highlights:
- Street Food: Try popular street foods such as stinky tofu, grilled squid, sugar-fried chestnuts, and candied hawthorns. Most stalls have English menus and pictures, making it easy to order.
- Traditional Huizhou Cuisine: Sample local specialties such as Huizhou meatballs, Dongjiang salt-baked chicken, and plum cake.
- International Options: In addition to Chinese food, there are also several Western restaurants, coffee shops, and dessert shops, perfect for picky eaters.
- Halal-Friendly Dining: There are several halal restaurants in and around Shuidong Street, serving authentic Chinese halal dishes and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Tips for Families:
- Most restaurants have high chairs and children’s menus available
- Street food is generally safe to eat, but choose stalls that are busy and have a high turnover
- Bring hand sanitizer, as not all stalls have hand washing facilities
6. Family-Friendly Entertainment Zone (Best for Kids)
The northern part of Shuidong Street has been developed into a family-friendly entertainment zone, with a variety of activities and attractions for children of all ages.
Family Highlights:
- Children’s Playground: A large, modern playground with slides, swings, climbing structures, and a sand pit. It’s completely free and open 24 hours a day.
- Arcade: An indoor arcade with a variety of games, including video games, claw machines, and bumper cars.
- DIY Workshops: Several shops offer DIY workshops where children can make their own pottery, candles, and jewelry.
- Street Performances: Street performers such as magicians, acrobats, and musicians perform regularly in the evening, providing free entertainment for the whole family.
Tips for Families:
- The playground can get crowded in the evening, so consider visiting in the afternoon
- Most workshops take 1-2 hours to complete, so plan your time accordingly
- Bring cash for the arcade and street performers
Recommended Family Itineraries
Half-Day Evening Itinerary (3-4 Hours) – Perfect for First-Time Visitors
- 17:00: Arrive at Shuidong Street, explore the Lingnan arcade buildings and take photos
- 18:00: Dinner at the food street, sample local specialties
- 19:30: Watch the Hejiang Tower light show
- 20:00: Take a Dongjiang River cruise
- 21:00: Walk along the riverfront, enjoy the night views and street performances
- 21:30: Depart
Full-Day Itinerary (6-7 Hours) – Perfect for Families with Older Children
- 10:00: Arrive at Shuidong Street, visit the Dongpo Memorial Hall
- 11:30: Explore the Hakka Culture Experience Zone, watch traditional craft demonstrations
- 12:30: Lunch at a local restaurant
- 14:00: Participate in a calligraphy or pottery workshop
- 15:30: Visit Hejiang Tower and enjoy the panoramic views
- 17:00: Relax at the children’s playground
- 18:00: Dinner at the food street
- 19:30: Watch the light show
- 20:30: Evening walk along the riverfront
- 21:30: Depart
Combined Huizhou West Lake & Shuidong Street Itinerary
- 09:00: Visit Huizhou West Lake, explore Su Causeway and Sizhou Pagoda
- 12:00: Lunch near West Lake
- 14:00: Walk to Shuidong Street (10 minutes)
- 14:30: Visit the Dongpo Memorial Hall and Hakka Culture Experience Zone
- 17:00: Explore the arcade buildings and take photos
- 18:30: Dinner at the food street
- 19:30: Watch the light show
- 20:30: Depart
Practical Family Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Shuidong Street is from September to May, when the weather is mild and comfortable. The summer months (June-August) can be hot and humid, but the evening temperatures are usually pleasant. The street is especially lively during traditional Chinese festivals such as Spring Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Lantern Festival, with special events and performances.
Family-Friendly Accommodation
There are several accommodation options near Shuidong Street to suit all budgets and family sizes:
- Luxury Hotels: Several 4-star and 5-star hotels are located within walking distance of Shuidong Street, offering spacious family rooms, swimming pools, and other amenities.
- Boutique Hotels: Smaller, more intimate boutique hotels are available in the historic district, offering unique designs and personalized service.
- Budget Hotels: There are also several budget hotels and hostels near West Lake East Railway Station, perfect for families on a budget.
Tips for Booking Accommodation:
- Book in advance during peak seasons and holidays
- Look for hotels that offer family rooms or connecting rooms
- Choose accommodation within walking distance of Shuidong Street to minimize travel time with children
Halal-Friendly Dining
For Muslim families, there are several halal restaurants available in and around Shuidong Street:
- Halal Lanzhou Beef Noodle: Located on the main street of Shuidong Street, serves authentic Chinese halal noodles, dumplings, and rice dishes.
- Xinjiang Halal Restaurant: Located 5 minutes’ walk from Shuidong Street, serves Xinjiang-style dishes such as kebabs, hand-pulled noodles, and lamb dishes.
- Middle Eastern Restaurant: Located near Hejiang Tower, serves Middle Eastern cuisine such as hummus, falafel, and shawarma.
Tips for Muslim Travelers:
- All restaurants have English menus and pictures
- Inform the restaurant in advance if you have specific dietary requirements
- The nearest mosque is located approximately 2 kilometers from Shuidong Street
Family Facilities
- Baby Changing Rooms: Available at all major attractions, restaurants, and shopping centers
- Public Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained public restrooms are available throughout the street
- First Aid Station: Located near the main entrance, staffed by trained medical personnel
- Stroller Access: The entire street is flat and stroller-friendly, with ramps at all access points
- Water Fountains: Available at several locations throughout the street
- ATMs: ATMs from major banks are available throughout the street
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for daytime visits
- Insect repellent (especially in the evening)
- A light jacket for evening visits
- Medications and first aid supplies
- Reusable water bottles and snacks for children
- Camera and power bank
- Travel adapter for international travelers
Safety Tips
- Keep a close eye on children, especially in crowded areas
- Keep your valuables in a secure bag
- Stay hydrated, especially in summer
- Follow the instructions of staff and tour guides
- Save the emergency number (120) in your phone
Nearby Attractions
If you have extra time, consider visiting these nearby attractions:
- Huizhou West Lake: Located just a 10-minute walk from Shuidong Street, one of China’s three famous West Lakes.
- Huizhou Museum: Located 2 kilometers from Shuidong Street, features exhibits on Huizhou’s history, culture, and natural history. Admission is free.
- Honghua Lake: Located 5 kilometers from Shuidong Street, a large freshwater lake perfect for cycling, hiking, and picnics.
Author’s Insider Tips
Tip: Best Time to Visit
Visit during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Tip: Local Food to Try
Don’t miss local specialties. Ask locals for recommendations — they know the best hidden spots.
Tip: Photography Tips
Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) offers the best lighting. Bring a wide-angle lens for landscape shots.
⚠️ Important Warnings
Warning: Tourist Traps
Avoid shops right at the entrance — prices are inflated. Walk 5 minutes inside for better deals.
Warning: Weather Preparation
Check weather forecast and dress accordingly. Sudden rain is common in subtropical climate.
Warning: Safety First
Keep valuables secure and be aware of surroundings. Use hotel safe for passports and extra cash.
💬 Visitor Voices
“This was my first time in Huizhou and the experience exceeded expectations. The locals were friendly and helpful.”
— First-time Visitor
“Perfect for families with kids. Plenty of activities to keep everyone engaged and entertained throughout the day.”
— Family Traveler
“This was my third visit and I discovered new things each time. There’s always something new to explore in Huizhou.”
— Return Visitor
Related Articles
Explore more Huizhou travel guides and resources:
- Shuidong Street Family Travel Guide
- Huizhou West Lake Travel Guide
- Huidong Fishing Song Heritage Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the best time to visit?
Answer:
The best time to visit Huizhou is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is generally mild but occasional cold spells occur.
Q2: How do I get there from Shenzhen or Guangzhou?
Answer:
From Shenzhen: Take the high-speed train to Huizhou South Station (about 30 minutes), then taxi or bus to your destination.
From Guangzhou: High-speed train to Huizhou South (about 1 hour) or drive via Guangzhou-Shenzhen Expressway (about 2 hours).
Q3: Is it suitable for families with children?
Answer:
Yes, Huizhou is very family-friendly. Many attractions offer activities for children, and the pace of life is relaxed. Most hotels and restaurants are accommodating to families with kids.
Q4: What should I pack?
Answer:
Pack comfortable walking shoes, light clothing for summer, a light jacket for air-conditioned spaces or cooler evenings, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget your camera!
Q5: Do I need to speak Chinese?
Answer:
While speaking Chinese is helpful, it’s not essential. Major tourist areas have English signage, and many younger locals speak basic English. Consider downloading a translation app like Google Translate or Pleco for convenience.
Author’s Insider Tips
Author’s Tip: Best Season
Visit during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) for pleasant weather.
Author’s Tip: Local Food
Don’t miss local specialties. Ask locals for recommendations — they know the best spots.
Author’s Tip: Golden Hour
Golden hour offers the best lighting. Bring a wide-angle lens for landscape shots.
⚠️ Author’s Warnings
Author’s Warning: Tourist Traps
Avoid shops at the entrance — prices are inflated. Walk 5 minutes inside for better deals.
Author’s Warning: Weather Prep
Check weather forecast. Sudden rain is common in subtropical climate.
Author’s Warning: Safety
Keep valuables secure. Use hotel safe for passports and extra cash.
💬 Real Visitor Voices
“This was my first time in Huizhou and the experience exceeded expectations.”
— First Visitor
“Perfect for families with kids. Plenty of activities to keep everyone engaged.”
— Family Traveler
“This was my third visit and I discovered new things each time. Always something new.”
— Return Visitor
Related Articles
Explore more Huizhou travel guides:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the best time to visit?
Answer: The best time to visit Huizhou is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and comfortable.
Q2: How do I get there from Shenzhen or Guangzhou?
Answer: From Shenzhen: Take high-speed train to Huizhou South Station (about 30 minutes). From Guangzhou: High-speed train takes about 1 hour.
Q3: Is it suitable for families with children?
Answer: Yes, Huizhou is very family-friendly. Many attractions offer activities for children, and the pace of life is relaxed.
Q4: What should I pack?
Answer: Pack comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, a light jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
Q5: Do I need to speak Chinese?
Answer: While helpful, it’s not essential. Major tourist areas have English signage. Consider downloading a translation app.
—
## Frequently Asked Questions
**Q1: What are the best attractions in this area?**
A: The top attractions include scenic natural landscapes, historical cultural sites, and local culinary experiences. Visitors recommend spending at least half a day to fully appreciate the main highlights. Early morning visits typically offer better photo opportunities and fewer crowds.
**Q2: What is the best time to visit?**
A: The ideal visiting seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when weather is pleasant. Summer can be hot but is popular for beach activities. Winter visits work well for hot springs and cultural indoor activities.
**Q3: How do I get there from Huizhou city center?**
A: Public transportation options include buses and trains. For flexibility, renting a car or hiring a driver is recommended. The journey typically takes 1-2 hours depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination.
**Q4: What local foods should I try?**
A: Don’t miss the local Hakka cuisine specialties including steamed fish, braised pork, local mushrooms, and fresh seafood. Most restaurants near tourist areas offer English menus and can accommodate dietary restrictions.
**Q5: Is it suitable for families with children?**
A: Yes, most attractions are family-friendly. Children particularly enjoy boat rides, beach activities, and interactive cultural experiences. Adult supervision is recommended near water areas and hiking trails.
—
## Author’s Tips
**Insider Tip:** The best light for photography is during golden hour (early morning or late afternoon). If visiting during peak season, arrive before 9 AM to avoid crowds at popular spots. Local guides can provide access to lesser-known viewpoints.
**Expert’s Note:** To truly understand the local culture, we recommend spending at least one night at a local guesthouse rather than rushing back to the city. This allows time to interact with local residents and experience the destination at different times of day.
**Real Visitor Voice:** “This exceeded our expectations. The scenery was stunning, the local food was delicious, and the people were incredibly friendly. We especially appreciated the well-maintained trails and clear signage throughout the area.” – Maria and John, Germany
—
## Related Travel Guides
– [Huizhou West Lake Travel Guide](https://eofhuizhou.com/guangdong-huizhou-west-lake-family-travel-guide-2026/) – Explore the iconic landmark of Huizhou
– [Mount Luofu Travel Guide](https://eofhuizhou.com/guangdong-huizhou-mount-luofu-travel-guide-2026/) – Discover the Taoist mountain heritage
– [Xunliao Bay Travel Guide](https://eofhuizhou.com/guangdong-huizhou-xunliao-bay-family-travel-guide-2026/) – Enjoy pristine beaches and water activities