Meizhou is a city in eastern Guangdong, set among mountains and rivers, and it is the heartland of Hakka culture. Its old core grew up along the Mei River, and the city is known for its historic streets, Hakka architecture, and the plum blossoms that gave the place its name.
For a visitor, the city is easiest to understand as two banks of the Mei River in the Meijiang District: Jiangbei on the north bank and Jiangnan on the south bank. The municipal government, courts, and main public offices sit in Jiangnan, while the older urban core and much of the everyday street life are on the Jiangbei side. This guide covers where to base yourself, how the areas connect to the sights, and what to expect at different budgets.
Best areas to stay in Meizhou
1. Jiangbei, Meijiang District
Jiangbei is the north-bank side of the Meijiang District and the historic urban core of the city, corresponding to the old Jiaying seat. It is the most practical base for a first visit, with the densest concentration of streets, shops, and everyday services, and it keeps you close to the river and the older parts of town.
It suits first-time visitors and budget travellers in particular. You find small guesthouses and youth-hostel-style accommodation here rather than large hotels, and the area is walkable for the riverfront and central sights. Expect ordinary city noise rather than resort quiet.
2. Jiangnan, Meijiang District
Jiangnan is the south-bank side of the Meijiang District, on the right bank of the Mei River. It is the administrative heart of the city, where the municipal government, Intermediate Court, CPC office, and Public Security Bureau are located, so the surroundings are orderly and well served by roads.
It suits travellers who prefer a calmer, more modern base within easy reach of the centre. You find larger, full-service hotels here rather than hostels. Crossing the river puts you in Jiangbei and the old core, so the two areas work well together.
3. Meixian District
Meixian District lies outside the built-up core and is the area most associated with Hakka heritage, including the historic villages and the countryside that draw many visitors to Meizhou. It is the place to base yourself if your priority is the cultural sights rather than the city centre.
It suits travellers with their own transport or those who do not mind relying on the road network, since the district is spread out and the sights are not all within walking distance of one another. Accommodation here leans toward larger hotels. The trade-off is that you are away from the riverfront core and its street life.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: dormitory beds and simple private rooms in small guesthouses and youth hostels, concentrated in the Jiangbei side of the Meijiang District.
- Mid-range: ordinary city hotels and guesthouses in the central districts, with private rooms and standard services; the widest choice is in the Meijiang District.
- Splurge: full-service hotels, including international-brand properties, in the Meixian District and the newer parts of the city.
Best area for a first visit
Base yourself in Jiangbei, in the Meijiang District. It puts you in the historic urban core on the north bank of the Mei River, close to the old streets and the riverfront, and it has the widest range of budget and simple accommodation. From there you can cross to Jiangnan for the administrative and newer side of the city, or head out to Meixian District for the Hakka heritage sights.
Frequently asked questions
Which part of Meizhou is best for a first-time visitor?
Jiangbei, on the north bank of the Mei River in the Meijiang District. It is the old urban core, it is walkable, and it keeps you close to the river and the central sights.
Where should I stay if I want to focus on Hakka culture?
Meixian District. It is the area most associated with Hakka heritage and the historic villages, though the sights are spread out and easier to reach with your own transport or by road.
How do I get to Meizhou?
The city is served by Meizhou Meixian Airport, with regular flights to Guangzhou and Hong Kong. High-speed rail links run from Meizhou West to Guangzhou, Zhuhai, Shenzhen, Shantou, Chaoshan, Yichang, and Xiamen, and regular rail services use Meizhou railway station in the city.
What is the climate like through the year?
Meizhou has a humid subtropical climate with short, mild winters and long, hot, humid summers. Rainfall is heaviest and most frequent from April to June, and the mountainous topography means flooding can be a concern.
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