We travelled to, a small town in southern China that was once the main port where thousands of Hakka Chinese set off hundreds of years ago — chasing new lives in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.
From the old river where ships once departed to the ancient homes still standing today, this place tells the story of how generations of families left China behind to build a future overseas.
Along the way we met local farmers, tried pomelo straight from the tree, explored traditional houses, and shared moments that reminded us how migration has shaped lives then and now.
This is one of China’s most emotional and untold migration stories.
Jack and Sophia explore Meizhou, China, a historic Hakka port. They discover the town's migration history, taste local pomelos, and experience authentic village life and a unique haircut.
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Embark on an emotional journey with Jack and Sophia Torr to Meizhou, a historic Hakka Chinese port in southern China. This video unveils the poignant story of thousands who migrated overseas, exploring ancient homes and the very river from which they departed. Experience authentic local life, from tasting fresh pomelos on a farm to a surprisingly affordable haircut in a traditional barbershop. Discover the heartwarming hospitality of the locals and the serene beauty of the river, culminating in a peaceful boat ride as the sun sets on this unforgettable exploration of China's untold migration tales.
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Southern China Port: Hakka Migration Stories & Village Life
We travelled to, a small town in southern China that was once the main port where thousands of Hakka Chinese set off hundreds of years ago — chasing new lives in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.
From the old river where ships once departed to the ancient homes still standing today, this...
China's Hakka Migration Story: Meizhou's Historic Port & Pomelo Farms
Embark on a journey to a hidden gem in Southern China, a historic river port that once launched thousands of Hakka Chinese seeking new lives across Southeast Asia. This documentary delves into the poignant migration stories of generations who left their homeland for Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. Witness the echoes of the past in ancient homes and the bustling river where journeys began. Experience the warmth of local farmers, the taste of fresh pomelo, and the enduring spirit of a community shaped by migration. This is an untold tale of resilience and the enduring human desire for a better future.
Attractions in this video: Old River Port, Ancient Homes, Pomelo Farm, Local Barbershop, Local Restaurant, Farm Garden, River Cruise
More about the current video:(Published on 2025-10-12)
This video takes viewers on a journey to Meizhou, a town in southern China with deep historical ties to the Hakka people. Once a crucial port, it was the departure point for thousands of Hakka Chinese seeking new lives in Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. The narrative highlights the emotional weight of this migration story, emphasizing the sacrifices made by families leaving their homeland behind.
Jack and Sophia Torr explore the remnants of this past, from the old river port where ships once sailed to the ancient homes that still stand today. They interact with local farmers, experiencing the authenticity of rural life. A unique discovery is the pomelo fruit, a large citrus fruit native to the region, which they taste directly from the tree and later learn about at a local farm. The experience of picking pomelos and understanding the cultivation process offers a glimpse into agricultural traditions.
The journey also delves into the everyday life of the town. The travelers visit a local barbershop, experiencing a traditional and incredibly affordable haircut, a stark contrast to modern salons. This segment showcases the preservation of old customs and the simple, yet rich, local culture. They also visit a local restaurant, enjoying home-style cooking made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, further immersing themselves in the authentic flavors of the region.
Interactions with locals are a recurring theme, revealing the warmth and curiosity of the community. The video touches upon the revitalization efforts in the town, with new infrastructure being developed, potentially turning it into a tourist destination while supporting local employment. The emotional core of the journey is amplified by reflections on family, separation, and the enduring human spirit, drawing parallels to personal experiences of migration.
Further exploration includes a serene boat ride along the river, offering picturesque views of the landscape and the unique sight of people living on houseboats. The video captures the tranquil beauty of the sunset and the vibrant evening atmosphere of the town. It concludes with a reflection on the charm of smaller, less-known cities in China, emphasizing their unique appeal before the travelers depart, leaving viewers with a profound appreciation for this untold migration story and the enduring spirit of the Hakka people.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
Q: What was the pomelo fruit like?
A: It's a massive, yellow fruit, similar to an orange but bigger. It tastes a bit like an orange and can also be red inside, which is rarer.
Q: What was the haircut experience like?
A: It was a very local and cheap experience for about $2. The barber used old chairs and thinning scissors, which was a bit unexpected but definitely memorable.
Q: What was the most surprising thing about the farm visit?
A: That the pomelo fruit can be eaten right after picking, and also that the farmer also does renovations in his spare time.
Q: What is the significance of this town?
A: It's a historic Hakka Chinese port where thousands of people left China centuries ago to seek better lives in Southeast Asia.
