2026 Zhaoqing Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

🏨 Got lost with my DiDi destination due to unsure address keying… and somehow ended up at another James Joyce Hotel. 😂 . During my stay in Zhaoqing, China, I was actually staying at another James Joyce Hotel outlet which is called: James Joyce Coffetel Hotel (Zhaoqing Qixingyan East Gate Square) - I will share more soon. . Since I was already there, might as well take some photos! . One thing I really like about James Joyce is that different outlets have slightly different themes, but they still keep that familiar overall vibe and feel. . So even though this wasn’t the outlet I originally planned to visit, it turned into a pretty nice little detour. . Just sharing some photos since I was here. 📸 . #ZhaoqingTravel #ChinaTravel #JamesJoyceHotel #TravelMoments #TravelInChina

Yuejiang Tower in Zhaoqing is an absolute showstopper! This Ming Dynasty gem sits atop Shitougang in the heart of the Duanzhou District (Address: Shitougang, Duanzhou Dist., Zhaoqing, Guangdong). You can’t miss those bold red walls and sleek green-glazed tiles—total main character energy! Not to mention those jaw-dropping West River views… and bonus: admission is FREE with your ID. Talk about a travel win! 🙌 Must-See Highlights · West River Panoramas: Hit the upper viewing decks for unreal panoramas over the Xijiang River, rolling hills, and sunsets that are just *chef’s kiss*. · Revolutionary Vibes: Step into history at the former HQ of Ye Ting’s legendary "Iron Army." The museum paints a vivid picture of Zhaoqing’s revolutionary past—perfect for history nerds and story-hunters. · Lingnan Architecture: Get ready to spam your feed with pics—the vermilion doors, classic courtyard layout, glowing red lanterns, and dramatic green-tiled eaves are total eye candy. · Poet’s Playground: This spot has major literary clout! Ancient scholars and poets once came here to vibe, write heavenly verse, and soak up those poetic vibes. Opening hours: 8:30 am - 5:30 pm (be sure to have your ID handy for free entry!) After your dose of history, head over to Agile Plaza (Minjie Square), Zhaoqing’s buzzing hub for amazing eats and cool city vibes (Address: No. 8, Minjie Road, Duanzhou Dist., Zhaoqing, Guangdong). Why You Need to Visit Agile Plaza · Dreamy Dim Sum & Cantonese Eats: Check out Jin Zuan Sheng Yan Restaurant (4th floor, Phase 3) for next-level Cantonese dishes and all-day fresh dim sum in a chic European-style setting. Morning tea here is a local staple! · Asian Fusion & Regional Flavors: Don’t miss Wa Xiao Xia (bullfrog pot specialists with crazy-tender flavors) and Tornado Sushi for a fun Japanese twist—sooo good! · Chill for Snacks & Cafés: Whether you’re craving snacky noodles, an iced bubble tea, or a cute dessert with friends, the plaza has loads of quick-bite joints and chill cafés to suit your mood. · Late Night Life: Most spots open from 10:00 am till late (around 10:00 pm), so you can relax after exploring the city. Zhaoqing is absolutely serving gorgeous riverside scenes, iconic history, and foodie finds all day. If you’re ready to level up your travel game, Yuejiang Tower and Agile Plaza are a must for your ! Book your trip and local experiences on trip.com for the smoothest travel ever.

Let’s spill the real tea about Chongxi Pagoda (Chongxitower) in Zhaoqing—this spot gets way more hype than it deserves, especially if you’re thinking of climbing it during summer. Here’s why you might want to skip the sweaty stairmaster session up those steep, narrow stairs. 👀 First off: Safety is NOT it. The staircases inside Chongxi Pagoda are suuuper tight and get absolutely packed—it’s a no-go if you’re even a little bit claustrophobic. 🙅♀️ Even worse, there are NO handrails! One misstep, especially on the way down, and you could totally wipe out. Seriously, it’s dangerous (and not in a fun way). Basic Info You Need to Know: · Address: Jiangbin 3rd Road, Duanzhou District, Zhaoqing, Guangdong, China · Opening Hours: 09:00–17:30 (onsite registration required) · Admission: FREE! But… is risking your safety really a bargain? 👎 Why People Visit: · Historic Flex: This Ming-era octagonal pagoda was built in 1585, standing 57.5 meters tall! If you love ancient architecture, you’ll be wowed by the stone-carved Hercules figures and bas-reliefs around the base. · History Buffs: Located near where Jesuit missionary Matteo Ricci built mainland China’s first Catholic church, plus early mechanical clocks were made around here. So many throwback vibes. ⏳ · River Views: Chongxi Pagoda overlooks the Xijiang River, and the views WOULD be epic… if you could climb to the top safely (interior access is usually limited to the lower levels for preservation and safety, FYI). How Long Do You Need? Just 30 minutes to 2 hours max—if you do go, don’t budget a whole afternoon. Travel Blogger Hot Take: Zhaoqing has much better spots for a chill or Insta-worthy adventure. If you’re all about amazing views, stay safe and check out other local attractions along the Xijiang River instead. Snap a pic of the pagoda from outside (trust, it looks 🔥 in your feed) and save yourself the harrowing climb. Bottom line: Chongxi Pagoda may be a cultural icon, but the climb is NOT worth the struggle (or risk) in sweaty summertime. You’ve been warned! 😅 Want a safer, more aesthetic Zhaoqing experience? Swing by Trip.com for options that are safer and way less sus!

The spring floral spectacle at Zhaoqing Star Lake is in full bloom. The Yutangchun and Gongfen Bauhinia you mentioned are currently at their peak, competing in beauty. This guide will take you to this floral rendezvous amidst mountains and waters~ 🌸 Flowering Status: Two flowers competing, miss it and wait a year · Gongfen Bauhinia (at its peak): Currently in full bloom, the pink and white flowers resemble clouds and rosy clouds, covering the lakeshore. The best viewing period is expected to last until the end of March. This year’s flowering started early, blooming from late February and reaching its most beautiful moment in early March. · Yutangchun (last chance): Flowering period is from January to March, now at the end of its viewing season. To catch a glimpse of its elegant purple charm, seize the last opportunity. · Concurrent blooms: Cherry blossoms, yellow trumpet trees, and Caesalpinia pulcherrima are also blooming one after another, making the entire Qixingyan area a splendid floral tapestry. 🚗 Transportation Guide · High-speed rail + local transport: Take the high-speed train from Guangzhou South Station to Zhaoqing East Station, about a 1-hour ride. From the station, take a taxi or bus to Qixingyan Scenic Area. · Self-driving: Navigate to "Qixingyan Scenic Area." During the flower viewing season (March), the He Xian Bridge entrance is temporarily open, and vehicles can park temporarily on the auxiliary road outside He Xian Bridge. · On-site transport: Electric scooters are available for rent near the scenic area for about 30 RMB/day, making it very pleasant to ride around the flower sea. 🎫 Tickets and Opening Hours · Ticket price: Adult tickets for Qixingyan Scenic Area are about 70-78 RMB (online discounts often available). Purchasing the Xinghu Card (100 RMB/2 years) allows unlimited entry to Qixingyan and Dinghu Mountain, very cost-effective. · Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM. · ⚠️ Special March benefits: · Free admission: Throughout March (Monday to Friday), visitors wearing Hanfu or cheongsam (ladies only) can enter for free from the temporary He Xian Bridge entrance (open 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM). · Women’s Day benefit: On March 8, ladies enter Qixingyan for free. · Activity discounts: 30% off on Star Lake night tours, self-driving boat rides, panoramic lake tours, and more. 📸 Key Check-in Spots: How to shoot the two major flower seas 💜 Yutangchun (Purple Magnolia) · Location: Shuiyue Causeway at Qixingyan (opposite Wulong Pavilion). The purple flowers are elegant, complementing the lakeside pavilions. · Photo spots: Use the rustic pavilion as a background and shoot upward to capture Yutangchun’s upright floral posture; or use the lake surface to capture reflections, creating the artistic effect of "two blossoms blooming." 💗 Gongfen Bauhinia (Pink Corridor) · Best viewing areas: · Foot of Yupingyan Mountain: The flower sea at the mountain foot contrasts with the rugged peaks, forming a three-dimensional landscape. · East Shuiyue Causeway: The pink flower corridor stretches for miles along both sides of the lake causeway, the core check-in spot. · Chunxiao Square: Visitors walk under the flowers, capturing moments of interaction between people and flowers. · Photo spots: · Stroll on Qixing Bridge: Look up to see the pink flower belt extending along the lakeshore, forming a dynamic ink painting with Star Lake and karst peaks. · Low-angle shots: Crouch down with flowers in the foreground to capture flowers and rustic pavilions in the same frame. · Upward shots against the sky: Use the blue sky as a background, with pink and white flowers resembling clouds and mist. · Best shooting times: Before 9:00 AM (soft light, fewer visitors), after 4:30 PM (sunset light gilds the flowers). 🎉 Special March Flower Viewing Events (until March 31) · Flower fairy parade and flower-giving attendants: Every Saturday and Sunday in March, two sessions daily (10:30 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM), covering core flower viewing areas. Flower-giving attendants hand out flowers for free along the route, and flower fairies interact and take photos with visitors. · Flower-giving attendants and flower fairies parade: Distributing fresh flowers to visitors, spreading spring blessings. · Opening ceremony held: On March 8 at Xinghu Cherry Blossom Square, featuring flower fairy fashion shows and flower-giving attendant performances. 🚶 Recommended Routes · Half-day highlights: He Xian Bridge entrance (enjoy free admission benefit) → Xinghu Cherry Blossom (cherry blossoms) → Shuiyue Causeway (Yutangchun) → Foot of Yupingyan Mountain (Gongfen Bauhinia) → East Shuiyue Causeway (Gongfen Bauhinia corridor) → Qixing Bridge (panoramic shots) → Chunxiao Square → Return · Full-day in-depth: Morning flower viewing and photography as above → Lunch with simple meals or picnic in the scenic area → Afternoon boat tour on the lake (30% discount) → Visit Baoding Garden at Dinghu Mountain (view Yutangchun) → Return in the evening 🍽️ Nearby Food Recommendations · Yanqian Village Lakeside Walkway: Opposite Qixingyan East Gate, riverside restaurants abound. Recommended local snacks include bamboo pole char siu rice noodle rolls (about 28 RMB) and wrapped steamed rice dumplings. · Around Qixingyan Archway Square: Various Cantonese restaurants and tea houses where you can taste Zhaoqing specialties like mountain water tofu pudding and mountain snail dishes. · Simple meals inside the scenic area: Small shops and snack pavilions near major spots, or bring your own picnic mat to enjoy under the flowering trees. 💡 Practical Tips · Essentials: Mosquito repellent (many flowers and water nearby), sun hat/sunglasses, plenty of water (the area is large). · Dress suggestions: Ladies wanting free admission can wear Hanfu or cheongsam; regular visitors are advised to wear light colors (white, cream, light pink) to match the pink-purple flower sea. · Civilized flower viewing: Do not pick flowers or step into flower beds. Creative photos with fallen petals are encouraged. · Restrooms: Available at major spots and entrances, well-equipped. · Pet policy: Please confirm pet regulations in advance. 🌟 Recommended Nearby Attractions (if time allows) · Dinghu Mountain: The "green gem" on the Tropic of Cancer, where you can see Yutangchun in Baoding Garden and experience Feishuitan Waterfall and Butterfly Valley. · Qixingyan Archway Square: Night music fountain and a great place for local leisure. · Zhaoqing Ancient City Wall (Songcheng Road): Song Dynasty ancient city wall, a place to feel the passage of history. May you encounter the most romantic spring in the mountains and flower seas of Zhaoqing Star Lake~ If you need detailed guides for Dinghu Mountain or other attractions, just ask me anytime.

If you’re spending more than 3–4 days in Guangzhou, I highly recommend setting aside a day to explore outside the city. The surrounding transport network is incredibly dense, making it easy to visit another metropolis, experience historic Guangdong, relax by the sea, or admire karst landscapes—all in a single day. Save these options 👇 🏯 1. Foshan 佛山 The easiest choice if you prefer a short commute. The city's main highlight is the Foshan Ancestral Temple, and you can also stroll through nearby Lingnan Tiandi. It's a fantastic way to experience traditional Lingnan architecture and culture. Choose Foshan if: you're looking for history and a relaxing day out with hassle-free logistics. 🌆 2. Shenzhen 深圳 Perfect if you want to see more of modern China after Guangzhou, but with a completely different vibe. Futian, the Civic Center, Shenzhen Bay, expansive public spaces, and towering skyscrapers. I'd visit not just for specific landmarks, but to soak in the atmosphere of a futuristic city. Choose Shenzhen if: you love modern architecture and bustling megacities. 🏘 3. Kaiping 开平 The most unique option on this list. The main draw here is the famous diaolou—multi-story fortified tower houses that blend Chinese and Western architectural styles. The diaolou and surrounding villages in Kaiping are a UNESCO World Heritage site. A day trip here will be quite packed, so it's best to head out early in the morning. Choose Kaiping if: you want to see a side of China that looks nothing like Guangzhou or Shenzhen. 🌴 4. Zhuhai 珠海 Enjoy the ocean, palm trees, and a long waterfront promenade instead of dense urban sprawl. You can stroll along Lovers’ Road, see the iconic Fisher Girl statue, walk up to the uniquely designed Zhuhai Opera House, or simply spend a few relaxing hours by the water. Choose Zhuhai if: you need a breather from the megacity hustle. ⛰ 5. Zhaoqing 肇庆 My top pick if you're craving some nature after all the urban exploration. The main attraction is the Seven Star Crags (七星岩). The lakes, karst rock formations, little bridges, and walking trails create a completely different scenery, despite being a relatively short trip from Guangzhou. Choose Zhaoqing if: you want to enjoy nature and stunning landscapes. 🏮 6. Dongguan 东莞 A city that foreign tourists often just pass through when traveling between Guangzhou and Shenzhen. Instead of hunting for famous landmarks, it's much more interesting to seek out old Guangdong here: Keyuan Garden, traditional neighborhoods, local architecture, and everyday street life. Choose Dongguan if: you're getting a bit tired of China's mainstream tourist spots. 📌 Quick guide: Foshan → History and culture Shenzhen → Modern China Kaiping → Unique architecture Zhuhai → The sea Zhaoqing → Nature Dongguan → Off-the-beaten-path Guangdong 💡 For your first day trip from Guangzhou, I’d highlight three main directions: Foshan for the easiest route possible; Zhaoqing if you want to trade the metropolis for nature; and Kaiping if you want to see a truly unique place. High-speed train tickets should be booked in advance, especially on weekends and Chinese public holidays. Save this list before your trip 🇨🇳

🇨🇳 This might just be one of Zhaoqing's most underrated spots. 🌿 . Hidden inside Seven Star Crags (七星岩) is this dreamy island that many travellers online call the "Redwood Forest" (not sure if that's the official name though 😆). . You’ll need to take a short boat ride to get there, and honestly, that's part of the experience. . Think towering redwood-like trees, mirror-like lake reflections, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes you want to slow down for a while. . I visited as a guest during my Zhaoqing trip, so I can't really advise on the logistics. But if you're already exploring Seven Star Crags, I genuinely think this little corner is worth adding to your itinerary. . 💡 𝐀 𝐟𝐞𝐰 𝐭𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐠𝐨: · 📍 Seven Star Crags is part of the larger 𝑿𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒉𝒖 𝑺𝒄𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒄 𝑨𝒓𝒆𝒂 (星湖旅游景区), one of China's National Key Scenic Areas. · 🕗 Opening hours are generally 8am–6pm. · ⏰ Set aside about 3 hours if you're exploring Seven Star Crags. · 🚣 If you have time, hop on the 35-minute scenic boat route to enjoy the lake from a different perspective. · 🍂 Visiting between December and January? That's usually when the Taxodium (bald cypress) Trees turn their beautiful reddish-brown colours, making the scenery even more magical. . If you have an extra day in Zhaoqing, consider pairing Seven Star Crags with Dinghu Mountain (鼎湖山) too. One offers peaceful lakes and karst landscapes, while the other is famous for its forests, waterfalls, and fresh mountain air. . Don't say Bo Jio. 😆 . 📍Seven Star Crags (七星岩) 3FPG+358, Zhaoqing Boulevard, Duanzhou District, Zhaoqing, Guangdong Province 526000, China . #zhaoqingtravel #zhaoqing #sevenstarcrags #xinghuscenicarea #guangdong

If you only stay at one hotel during your vacation in Zhaoqing, it must be the Wyndham Grand Zhaoqing Qixingyan Hotel. This treasure hotel, praised by countless people as the "ceiling of Zhaoqing vacation hotels," is located on the lakeside of the national 5A-level scenic spot Qixingyan, truly achieving the concept of "moving the hotel into the scenic area." It’s just a few minutes’ walk from the hotel to the East Gate of Qixingyan, and the back door opens directly to the Xinghu Greenway with a room card. Morning runs, walks, and watching egrets—step outside and you are surrounded by beautiful mountains and waters. About 1.5 hours’ drive from Guangzhou-Foshan, it’s a perfect getaway to the backyard of the Pearl River Delta. 🏨 Living in the scenery is the soul of a vacation The hotel covers about 120,000 square meters, with 630 rooms, over 70% of which offer views of Xinghu Lake. Highly recommend the lake-view rooms with private soaking tubs, where a 180° landscape painting hangs outside the window. Soak in the private balcony tub at dusk while watching the stunning sunset of "Sleeping Buddha Embracing the Red Sun," creating an unforgettable atmosphere. The basic room starts at 55㎡, featuring a spacious and comfortable modern Chinese style. 🎡 One-stop vacation, so fun you won’t want to leave The hotel itself is a large-scale vacation complex. Indoor and outdoor swimming pools, surfing pool, water park, indoor and outdoor kids’ playgrounds to free parents’ hands, garden mineral hot spring pools for ultimate relaxation, plus tennis courts, gym, and go-karting. The indoor heated pool is available all year round, perfect for both kids and adults to relax and have fun. 🍜 Lingnan cuisine on the tip of your tongue Hai Gang Grand Restaurant serves authentic Cantonese dishes, and the all-day buffet offers over 100 kinds of food to satisfy your appetite. Don’t miss the freshly made Cantonese rice rolls and wonton noodles for breakfast. In Zhaoqing, open your window to Qixingyan, go downstairs to Xinghu Greenway, step outside to a 5A scenic spot—living inside a landscape painting during your vacation probably feels just like this🌿 Location: No. 13, Section 5, Xinghu Avenue, Duanzhou District, Zhaoqing City 🚗 Transportation: About 1.5 hours’ drive from Guangzhou-Foshan|10 minutes to Zhaoqing Railway Station|35 minutes to Zhaoqing East High-Speed Rail Station

🌺 Guangdong people's summer retreat garden! Zhaoqing in July is breathtakingly beautiful Family! I’ve discovered Guangdong’s hidden summer getaway! It’s Zhaoqing! Truly a wonderful surprise! Went in July, originally thought it would be very hot But inside Seven Star Crags, it’s refreshingly cool Dinghu Mountain is like a natural air conditioner Sisters in Guangdong who don’t know where to go in summer You really should head to Zhaoqing! · -- 🌿 Why visit Zhaoqing in July? It’s really cooler than Guangzhou and Shenzhen! I traveled from Guangzhou and clearly felt Zhaoqing was cooler Especially inside the scenic spots, with mountains, water, and trees It’s normal to be 3 to 4 degrees cooler than the city Dinghu Mountain is even better Once you enter, you won’t want to leave Natural oxygen bar + natural air conditioning, amazing The lotus flowers are just blooming! July is the most beautiful time for lotus at Seven Star Crags Vast lotus ponds Pink and white, especially pretty With the karst peaks in the background It really looks like a traditional Chinese ink painting Perfect for photos Not crowded! Compared to those popular tourist cities Zhaoqing is really less crowded No queues at attractions, no fighting for photo spots You can quietly enjoy the scenery This kind of experience is really important · -- 🏔️ Day 1: Seven Star Crags, the top wonder of Lingnan Morning: Enter from the North Gate, head straight to the core area I arrived at 8 am, few people and cool Recommend entering from the North Gate, close to the core scenic area Right at the entrance is the Bald Cypress forest Lush green in summer, very beautiful There’s also a water mist feature, very ethereal Walk forward to Lotus Fragrance Pavilion The lotus flowers in July are incredibly beautiful Vast lotus ponds Pink lotus flowers, green leaves With the mountains behind It really looks like a painting I took photos there for a long time Noon: Walk by the lake, find a place to rest Seven Star Crags is large, no need to rush At the hottest time around noon You can find a shady spot to sit There are many pavilions and benches by the lake Enjoying the breeze and lake view Very comfortable I also took a black-awning boat The boatman rowed slowly on the lake Watching the scenery on both sides Very atmospheric If you like photography, you must take it Photos from the boat have a great vibe Afternoon: Climb Tianzhu Rock for the panoramic view It’s cooler in the afternoon, good for hiking Tianzhu Rock is the highest peak of Seven Star Crags Not tall, takes just over half an hour to climb But the view from the top is amazing 360-degree view overlooking all of Seven Star Crags Seven peaks arranged like the Big Dipper Surrounded by lake water, very spectacular You can take a different path down Passing through Stone Chamber Cave Inside are many cliff inscriptions Left by ancient scholars Very historical The cave is very cool, like natural air conditioning Evening: Watch the sunset at Shuiyue East Dyke For sunset, you must go to Shuiyue East Dyke The spot is perfect The sun sets behind the mountains The lake reflects the evening glow With bridges and pavilions as foreground Photos come out especially beautiful That day I saw pink-purple sunset clouds Truly breathtaking Night: Watch the musical fountain at Paifang Square At night, go to Paifang Square There’s a musical fountain, quite spectacular Next to it is Star Lake The breeze at night is very pleasant Many locals stroll around the square Very lively and authentic · -- 🌳 Day 2: Dinghu Mountain, a natural oxygen bar Morning: Go up early to avoid crowds I recommend going to Dinghu Mountain early Before 8 am is best, fewer people and cooler You can take the sightseeing bus up the mountain to save energy Directly to Baoding Garden Baoding Garden There’s a huge cauldron here Called the Nine-Dragon Treasure Cauldron, very grand Also the world’s largest Duan inkstone Very interesting You can learn about cauldron culture and Duan inkstone culture Qingyun Temple From Baoding Garden, walk down to Qingyun Temple One of Guangdong’s four famous temples Very historic The temple is built in the mountain, environment is excellent Ancient trees towering, incense smoke swirling Very atmospheric Even if you don’t believe in Buddhism, it’s worth a visit The architecture and environment are impressive Feishui Pool This is my favorite spot! About 20 minutes down from Qingyun Temple Feishui Pool is incredibly cool Waterfall flows down from above Mist fills the air, temperature several degrees lower than outside Standing nearby is very comfortable Water is very clear and green You can step into the water, icy cool I played there for a long time, didn’t want to leave Sun Yat-sen even swam here There’s a stone inscription saying "Sun Yat-sen Swimming Spot" Very historically significant Afternoon: Leisurely walk down the mountain You can take another path down Passing many streams and woods Very cool Air quality is excellent High negative oxygen ion content Take a deep breath Feels like your lungs are cleansed There are many ancient trees along the way Some hundreds of years old Very thick, takes several people to hug Walking in this primeval forest Feels very healing All worries disappear · -- 🚶 Day 3: Song City Wall + Qilou Street, experience old Zhaoqing Morning: Song City Wall Zhaoqing has a very well-preserved Song Dynasty city wall Right in the city, very convenient The wall isn’t long but very charming You can walk on it See the old city views There’s a Piyun Tower on the wall You can climb up for a good view Below the wall is the old city Many old houses and alleys You can stroll around Feel the life of old Zhaoqing Noon: Qilou Street Not far from Song City Wall is Qilou Street A street full of Republic of China era charm All arcade buildings Well preserved Many small shops on the street You can browse slowly Afternoon: Bao Gong Cultural Park or Mei An In the afternoon, choose a place based on your interest If interested in history, visit Bao Gong Cultural Park Learn about Bao Zheng’s stories in Zhaoqing If interested in Buddhism, visit Mei An Mei An is a very old temple Has a thousand-year-old plum tree The architecture is also very distinctive Evening: West River Night View At night, go to the West River to see the night view West River is wide, looks beautiful with lights on You can take a walk by the river Enjoy the river breeze Very comfortable · -- 📸 Photo Tips (Tested and great for shots) Best photo spots at Seven Star Crags: 1. Lotus Fragrance Pavilion — lotus + peaks, looks like an ink painting 2. Tianzhu Rock summit — panoramic view, all seven peaks in sight 3. Shuiyue East Dyke — stunning sunset, beautiful reflection of evening glow 4. Bald Cypress forest — water mist + green cypress, very ethereal 5. Stone Chamber Cave — cliff inscriptions, very historical Best photo spots at Dinghu Mountain: 1. Feishui Pool — waterfall + green water, very refreshing feeling 2. Qingyun Temple — ancient temple + old trees, very zen 3. Baoding Garden — huge cauldron, very imposing Best photo times: · 8-10 am: fewer people, soft light · 4-6 pm: golden hour, stunning sunsets · Cloudy days are also good: even light, soft photos · -- 💡 Practical Tips Transportation: · Very convenient from Guangzhou, high-speed train takes just over half an hour · Taxis in the city are cheap, around 10 RMB · There are buses between Seven Star Crags and Dinghu Mountain, or you can take a taxi Tickets: · Seven Star Crags: 70 RMB · Dinghu Mountain: 70 RMB · You can buy a Star Lake Card for 100 RMB to visit both spots and ride sightseeing buses Best time to visit: · June to August: lotus in full bloom, best for summer escape · Recommend 2-3 days, not rushed · Avoid weekends for fewer crowds Notes: · It can still be a bit hot in summer, bring sun protection · Mosquitoes are common in scenic areas, bring repellent · Wear comfortable shoes for hiking · Bring some water and snacks, things are expensive inside Zhaoqing is really underrated Has mountains, water, and history Close to Guangzhou Perfect for a weekend trip Sisters in Guangdong If you don’t know where to go in summer Really consider Zhaoqing It won’t disappoint · -- Accommodation 🏨 Banshan Lanyue Designer Boutique Stay (Zhaoqing Dinghu Mountain Branch) Located halfway up Dinghu Mountain, open the window to mountain views, with an outdoor bathtub and pool, very stylish design, super convenient for visiting Dinghu Mountain, you can wake up to birdsong, very healing. 🏨 Wyndham Grand Zhaoqing Seven Star Crags Hotel Right by the lake at Seven Star Crags, private courtyard design, with water park and pool, rooms have lake views, excellent location, very convenient for exploring Seven Star Crags, one of the few high-end resorts in Zhaoqing. 🏨 Zhaoqing Cat Paw · Totoro Villa A forest-style resort hotel hidden in Cat Paw Valley Scenic Area, nestled by the mountain and water, themed around cute cats, very adorable, with beach volleyball and various activities, suitable for families or nature lovers, full of atmosphere. 🏨 Mountain and Lake Homestay Located in a garden villa area at the foot of Beiling Mountain, very close to Seven Star Crags, with lake view rooms and a large garden, excellent environment, also has KTV, chess room, tea room, great for friends gathering or family stays. · --

🌿 The summer retreat garden for Guangdong locals, I found it! As a Guangdong native, summer heat is my biggest fear. But recently, I discovered a hidden gem for summer cooling—Dinghu Mountain in Zhaoqing. The forest coverage here reaches 95%, and the average summer temperature is only 22℃, a full 8℃ cooler than the city, truly a natural air conditioner! Plus, it’s just over an hour’s drive from Guangzhou, perfect for a weekend getaway for those wanting to escape the city heat. · -- 🌲 First stop: Feishuitan Pool—The coolest spot in Dinghu Mountain When you come to Dinghu Mountain, the first stop must be Feishuitan Pool! I think this is the most essential spot in the whole scenic area. The waterfall cascades down from over 40 meters high, roaring loudly. Even before you get close, you can feel the mist hitting your face. Standing next to the waterfall, your face feels refreshingly cool, and the temperature instantly drops by 5℃—it’s such an amazing feeling! 💦 Water play tips: · The pool water is shallow and clear, perfect for wading · Bring slippers or sandals for easy water access · You can soak a watermelon in the water; after chilling, it tastes super sweet · The stones are slippery, so be careful while playing in the water This is also where Mr. Sun Yat-sen once swam, and there’s a plaque by Soong Ching-ling inscribed with "Sun Yat-sen Swimming Spot." Thinking about the great man cooling off here a century ago adds a historical vibe. I sat by the pool for a long time, listening to the waterfall and feeling the cool breeze. The city’s restlessness and heat seemed to be healed by these mountains and waters. · -- 🛕 Second stop: Qingyun Temple—One of the Four Famous Temples of Lingnan About a 20-minute walk uphill from Feishuitan Pool is Qingyun Temple. This temple is over 400 years old and one of the Four Famous Temples of Lingnan. Built against the mountain in layers, it’s very majestic. I’m not a Buddhist, but I love visiting temples; the solemn and serene atmosphere really calms the mind. 🍵 Temple experience: · Have a cup of Dinghu tea in the tea room, the tea aroma paired with mountain views is amazing · Try the vegetarian meals, they taste great and are affordable · Walk around the temple to see century-old trees and ancient buildings There are many ancient trees in the temple, some hundreds of years old. Standing under the big trees, with sunlight filtering through the leaves and the sound of bells and chanting, time seems to slow down. · -- 🚶 Third stop: Primeval Forest Hiking—A spa for your lungs Dinghu Mountain is China’s first nature reserve, and its primeval forest is truly precious. I took a relatively easy hiking trail, about 2 hours long, all on paved boardwalks, very easy to walk. Towering trees line the path, blocking the sunlight, making the walk very comfortable. 🌳 Hiking highlights: · Oxygen ions off the charts: up to 100,000 per cubic centimeter, hundreds of times more than the city, leaving you refreshed after the hike · Rare plants: you can see many plants rarely seen elsewhere, like tree ferns and Gumu trees · Babbling streams: streams accompany you all along the way, the sound of water is very soothing Walking in the primeval forest feels like stepping into a green fairy tale world. Everywhere is green—dark green, light green, tender green, emerald green... all kinds of green layers that are a feast for the eyes. · -- 🍜 Zhaoqing cuisine is really delicious! 1. Mountain Water Tofu Pudding This is a must-try! Many small stalls sell it on the way down the mountain, 5 yuan a bowl. The tofu pudding is silky and tender, paired with ginger syrup, sweet and refreshing. After hiking, a bowl really revives you. 2. Wrapped Steamed Rice Dumplings Zhaoqing’s wrapped steamed rice dumplings are famous, wrapped in winter leaves and very large. Inside are glutinous rice, mung beans, pork belly, and salted egg yolk, packed with ingredients. I recommend the brand Huang Zhong Huang, an old and authentic brand. 3. Xijiang Carp The fish from Xijiang is really fresh; steamed simply, it’s delicious with tender meat and no muddy taste. 4. Dinghu Mountain Spring Water Tofu Made with spring water from Dinghu Mountain, the tofu has a strong bean fragrance and a smooth texture, delicious however it’s cooked. --- 📸 Photo spots to share 1. In front of Feishuitan Waterfall: stand beside the waterfall and have a friend shoot from the side, with mist and sunlight together, very atmospheric 2. Qingyun Temple Gate: red walls with green trees, very traditional and elegant 3. Forest Boardwalk: walk on the boardwalk and have a friend shoot from behind, very forest vibe 4. Butterfly Valley: emerald green lake surrounded by mountains, like a landscape painting · -- 💡 Practical tips 🚗 Transportation: · From Guangzhou: about 1.5 hours by car, or take the high-speed train to Zhaoqing East Station, then transfer to a bus · Within the city: take bus No. 21 directly to Dinghu Mountain 🎫 Tickets: · Dinghu Mountain entrance ticket is 70 yuan, sightseeing bus 20 yuan · It’s recommended to buy the sightseeing bus ticket as the scenic area is quite large and walking can be tiring ⏰ Best time to visit: · June to August is great for summer cooling, with abundant water making the waterfalls beautiful · It’s best to go early in the morning when it’s less crowded, cooler, and the air is fresher 👗 Dress suggestions: · Wear comfortable sneakers as there’s a lot of walking · Bring a light jacket, the mountain is several degrees cooler than the city · Bring mosquito repellent, as there are many mosquitoes in the mountains · -- Accommodation 🏨 Banshan Lanyue Designer Boutique Stay (Dinghu Mountain, Zhaoqing) A French-style homestay halfway up Dinghu Mountain, with an Instagram-worthy pool and mountain views, ranked among Zhaoqing’s top boutique stays. 🏨 Zhaoqing Lian’an Lakeview Inn Zhaoqing’s only national first-class tourist homestay, with 270-degree unbeatable lake views, perfectly located on the Yanqian Peninsula. 🏨 Wyndham Grand Hotel Qixingyan, Zhaoqing An international brand five-star hotel, featuring outdoor hot spring pools with views of Star Lake, and an executive lounge with an exclusive viewing terrace. 🏨 Inno Yanbo Homestay (Qixingyan Scenic Area) Located in the core area of Qixingyan, equipped with smart toilets and large floor-to-ceiling windows, with new facilities and excellent service, very convenient for travel.

In Zhaoqing, there is a kind of stunning beauty called Seven Star Crags 🌸【About Seven Star Crags】 Seven Star Crags can be considered a city landmark of Zhaoqing. The scenic area is located at No. 1 Qixing Road, Duanzhou District, Zhaoqing City, Guangdong Province, and is open year-round from 08:00 to 18:00. The park features seven limestone peaks, Four Wonders, Three Lakes, Two Halls, and One Cave, each with its own unique charm. 🚗【Transportation】 1. Self-driving: From Duanzhou District, take Zhaoqing Avenue and pass the G94 Pearl River Delta Ring Expressway to reach the destination. 2. Bus: Take bus No. 26 and get off at the “Seven Star Crags Archway” stop, then walk about 500 meters to the scenic area. 3. Taxi: A taxi ride from Duanzhou District to the scenic area costs about 25 yuan. 🏞【Travel Tips】 1. Lake Area Tour: The Seven Star Crags lake area is the core of the entire scenic spot, including Xian Lake, Qinglian Lake, and Bohai Lake. Taking a sightseeing boat is the best way to enjoy the beautiful scenery, with tickets priced at 40 yuan per person. 2. Climb Xinghu Peak: Xinghu Peak is the highest peak of Seven Star Crags. Climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of the entire scenic area. 3. Cultural Experience: Seven Star Crags not only boasts rich natural landscapes but also many cultural sites, such as the Song Dynasty City Wall and the Song City Wall Memorial Hall. 🍜【Food Recommendations】 1. Barbecue at the Foot of the Mountain: There are many barbecue shops near the entrance of the scenic area offering various grilled skewers and snacks. 2. Xianrendong Vegetarian Rice Noodles: Located next to Xianrendong Cave, this vegetarian rice noodle shop offers a refreshing and delicious taste. 3. Zhaoqing Wrapped Steamed Rice Dumplings: As one of Zhaoqing’s representative delicacies, it’s a must-try. 🌟【Highlights】 1. Lotus Festival: From June to September each year is the lotus blooming season. Enjoying the lotus flowers by the lakeside in the lake area is an unmissable experience. 2. Night Tour of Xinghu Lake: Taking a boat tour of the lake’s night scenery offers a unique charm. 3. Photographer’s Paradise: The mountains, waterscapes, and cultural architecture in the scenic area are perfect for photography enthusiasts to create art.

Who would have thought! I've discovered the best value-for-money spot for kids in Zhaoqing😭 With a 5 RMB ticket, you can enjoy 133 amusement projects, playing for a full 3 hours without getting bored. Affordable fun for families, no more worrying about expensive amusement park tickets! 📍【Address】 Dongjin Avenue, Dinghu District, Zhaoqing City (west side of Taihe Gas Station), just navigate to Zhaoqing Children's Park for precise directions 🚌【Transportation】 Driving is the most convenient, with plenty of free parking spaces around the park—super hassle-free! Public transport: Bus routes 6 and 20 go directly nearby. The surrounding roads are smooth and traffic-free, very comfortable. 🎫【Tickets】 Only 5 RMB per person! The value is unbeatable✨ Children under 1.2 meters enter for free, making it a low-cost paradise for families—just the price of a milk tea for a whole day of fun. 🎡【Highlights】 A rare, huge non-powered children's playground with 133 play projects! Divided into 9 themed areas including forest adventure, fantasy beach, fun water play zone, rainbow slides, and skateboarding area. Complete with carousel, pirate ship, and a giant sandpit, catering to all ages from toddlers to older kids. The park is full of greenery and shade everywhere, no need to worry about sun exposure. When tired, you can rest anytime. The atmosphere is perfect for kids to burn energy and parents to relax. 🍜【Nearby Food】 Lots of local snacks around the park! Affordable rice rolls, authentic steamed sticky rice dumplings, fresh juice, and snacks—all reasonably priced. Great for refueling when hungry, no disappointments, super tasty. 💡【Helpful Tips】 1. Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, last entry at 5:30 PM. Closed on Mondays, so don’t go on an empty trip! 2. The water play area and sandpit are must-plays; bring a change of clothes and a small shovel. 3. Weekends get crowded, so it’s better to visit in the morning off-peak for a better experience. 4. The park’s lawns are spacious; you can bring a picnic mat for a cozy rest when tired.

If you ever have the chance to visit Kunming, I highly recommend checking out Wenming Street Shop. The atmosphere is lovely, making it incredibly enjoyable to walk around. You'll find coffee shops, cozy little cafes, souvenir stores, and beautiful photo spots all along the way. The street perfectly retains the charm of traditional Chinese-style architecture while blending seamlessly with a modern touch, giving it a warm and lively vibe. It's great for a chill stroll, whether in the morning or the evening. Plus, there are plenty of local snacks and cute souvenirs to buy, not to mention a huge variety of restaurants to choose from. For anyone who loves a relaxing walk, soaking in the city vibe, and discovering chic spots for photos, I guarantee you'll absolutely love it here. It's definitely one of those spots that feels totally worth the visit and leaves you wanting to come back for another stroll! Location: Just pin "Wenming Street" on Amap. There are tons of other pedestrian streets in the area that are all interconnected and within walking distance. Such a fun place to explore! Food travel china trip guide

Zhaoqing is not just about Dinghu Mountain and Seven Star Crags! This time, I spent three days exploring some lesser-known hidden gems around Zhaoqing: Guangdong's Little Jiuzhaigou, a thousand-year-old ancient village, bamboo sea hiking, riverside plank roads... Few people, beautiful scenery, and free entry. I completely took over a whole area of mountains and waters—perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway. 🗺️ Three-Day Hidden Gems Exploration (90% of tourists don’t know these) Day 1: Ziyun Valley + Antelope Gorge Ancient Plank Road 8:00 Depart for Ziyun Valley, the birthplace of Duan inkstone, hidden deep in Lanke Mountain, accessible only by boat from the dock. As soon as you enter the valley, you’re amazed—the water here is truly emerald green, so clear you can see the stones at the bottom, rivaling Jiuzhaigou! The water volume in June is just right. Walking along the plank road by the creek, both sides are primeval forest, no sunlight at all, very cool. 10:00 Arrive at Tianqing Pool, the most beautiful spot in Ziyun Valley. The water is a gradient of turquoise green, perfect for swimming. The water is especially clear and cool—swimming here in summer is so refreshing. You can also visit the Tang Dynasty Duan inkstone old mine site to learn about the history of Duan inkstone mining. 12:00 Have lunch at a farmhouse restaurant in the valley. I recommend the Xijiang carp, very fresh, along with various wild vegetables—light and refreshing. 14:00 Head to Antelope Gorge Ancient Plank Road, an ancient navigation route on the Xijiang River, now converted into a 6 km hiking plank road. It’s all flat, with river views on one side and mountain views on the other—truly spectacular. The June river breeze is very cool, and walking the whole route is not tiring at all. When I walked, I only met a few local hikers, no tourists at all. 17:00 Watch the sunset at the gorge entrance. The sunset over the Xijiang River is especially beautiful, with golden light shimmering on the water and cargo ships passing by—very atmospheric. Day 2: Zanglonggou Stream Trekking + Jiaoyuan Village 9:00 Go to Zanglonggou, a very pristine natural area mainly for stream trekking adventures. The water volume in June is very high. Walking upstream along the creek, you cross single-log bridges, climb soft ladders, and raft on bamboo rafts—very thrilling. Along the way, there are waterfalls and deep pools with crystal-clear water, perfect for jumping in to swim and cool off. The area is very quiet; when I was trekking, it felt like I was the only one in the whole valley, with only the sounds of water and birds—so healing. 12:00 Have lunch at a farmhouse in the scenic area. I recommend the free-range chicken, very fragrant. 14:00 Visit Jiaoyuan Village, a 600-year-old ancient village with no commercialization. The village has many century-old trees; the largest banyan tree is over 500 years old and takes more than a dozen people to hug. The ancient ancestral halls in the village are exquisitely crafted, with brick and wood carvings full of historical charm. I spent the whole afternoon in the village, only a few elderly women chatting at the door—very quiet, time seemed to slow down. Day 3: Guangning Bamboo Sea + Luoguo Ancient Street This is the most soothing day! 8:00 Depart for Guangning, known as the "Hometown of Bamboo in China," with 100,000 acres of bamboo sea. First, visit the Bamboo Viewing Tower and climb the observation deck to see the endless bamboo sea. When the wind blows, the bamboo sea waves like the ocean—very spectacular. The bamboo is especially green in June, and the air is filled with the fresh scent of bamboo. 10:00 Hike through the bamboo sea. It’s very cool inside the bamboo forest, about 5°C cooler than outside, making the walk very comfortable. Along the way, you’ll pass many small streams where you can step into the water—very refreshing. 12:00 Visit Luoguo Ancient Street, a 500-year-old ancient port by the Suijiang River. The street is short, only about 200 meters, but full of character, with buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Many old shops are still operating, including a blacksmith, barber, and grocery store, full of local life atmosphere. The ferry dock on the ancient street is especially beautiful, with a large banyan tree hanging over the river like an ink painting. 14:00 Take a ferry to the opposite bank. The Suijiang River water is very clear, and the ferry is manually rowed—very charming. The other side has a large sandy beach, perfect for playing in the water and collecting stones, ideal for bringing kids. 16:00 Try Guangning wontons, a local specialty with thin skin and large filling, very fresh. Only 10 yuan per bowl—delicious and affordable. ⚠️ Pitfall Avoidance Tips❌ 1. Go to Ziyun Valley early; after 10 AM, tour groups arrive and it gets crowded. 2. Wear anti-slip stream trekking shoes for Zanglonggou; the rocks are very slippery, don’t wear slippers. 3. Bring enough water for Antelope Gorge hiking; no supplies along the way. 4. Don’t make loud noises in the ancient village; respect the local lifestyle. 💡 Practical Tips 1. June is the best season to visit—high water volume, not hot, fewer mosquitoes. 2. These spots are quite spread out; self-driving is recommended. Roads are good and parking is convenient. 3. Bring a change of clothes for stream trekking—you’ll get soaked. 4. The boat ticket for Ziyun Valley includes admission, 60 yuan per person, very cost-effective. Accommodation 🏨 Zhaoqing Xijiang Blue Coast Villa A white Greek-style castle B&B by the Xijiang River with unobstructed river views. Enjoy the emerald waves by day and starry skies by night—full of romance. 🏨 Mountain and Lake B&B (Zhaoqing Seven Star Crags Branch) A garden villa at the foot of Beiling Mountain, surrounded by mountains and water, with a European-style large garden, KTV, and gym—perfect for parties and gatherings. 🏨 Zhaoqing Sheraton Hotel An international brand five-star hotel with a three-tower exterior design, integrating waterfront views, complete facilities, and professional service. 🏨 Zhaoqing Langyu Hotel Located in the core area of Duanzhou, featuring a light luxury modern style, close to Seven Star Crags scenic area, convenient transportation, and great value for money.

You know how hot summer in Guangdong can be! But I found a natural air-conditioned room at 21℃ in Zhaoqing — Dinghu Mountain. In June, Dinghu Mountain is at its waterfall peak, bursting with negative ions, dense shade, and splashing spring water. Standing next to Feishui Pool, the cool air hits you like a breeze, a hundred times more comfortable than air conditioning. The Guangzhou-Shenzhen high-speed train gets you there in 2 hours, perfect for a weekend summer getaway! 🌊 Three-Day Deep Summer Escape to Dinghu Mountain (Local's Route) Day 1: Deep Lung-Cleansing Day at Dinghu Mountain 7:30 Be sure to enter before 8 AM! Fewer people, cooler, and you save on parking fees. Don’t take the sightseeing bus—walk up the mountain! I walked from the entrance to Feishui Pool, about 40 minutes along Tianxi Stream, flanked by towering ancient trees, no sun exposure, and it gets cooler the further you go. 9:00 Arrive at Feishui Pool! This is the essence of Dinghu Mountain. In June, the water volume is especially large, with waterfalls cascading from over 40 meters high, roaring loudly. Standing beside the waterfall, you can feel the mist on your face, and the temperature instantly drops by 5℃. You can take off your shoes and step into the water; the creek is icy cold. Soaking in it during summer refreshes your whole body. Even Dr. Sun Yat-sen once swam here. 11. 00 Walk up the mountain path to Qingyun Temple, one of Guangdong’s four famous temples, with over 400 years of history. The temple is very quiet but bustling with incense. You can enjoy a cup of Dinghu Mountain tea at the temple’s teahouse for 20 RMB. Sitting in the courtyard, listening to the bell, and feeling the mountain breeze is very pleasant. 12. 30 Have a vegetarian meal at Qingyun Temple. Dinghu Mountain vegetarian dishes are a must-try, a famous Zhaoqing specialty made with various mushrooms and vegetables, fresh and light, perfect for cooling down. 14:00 Visit Baoding Garden to see the world’s largest Duan inkstone and the Nine-Dragon Treasure Cauldron. You can throw a wishing ball, which is quite fun. Then go to Butterfly Valley, take a boat into the primeval forest, where many butterflies and rare plants live—truly magical. 17:00 Descend the mountain via Yunxi Trail instead of the way you came. Fewer people, more beautiful scenery, passing by Old Dragon Pool with crystal-clear water. Day 2: Seven Star Crags + Slow Life at Yanqian Village 8:00 Go to Seven Star Crags, but don’t enter through the main gate! Use the west gate for fewer crowds. The Star Lake in June is especially beautiful, with emerald green water and seven peaks arranged like the Big Dipper. Avoid the usual tour route; stroll slowly along the lakeside greenway, enjoying the mountains and water—very relaxing. 10:00 Climb Tianzhu Rock, the highest peak of Seven Star Crags. Though only about 100 meters high, you can overlook the entire Star Lake from the top. On a clear June day, you can see Dinghu Mountain in the distance—spectacular. 12:00 Have lunch at Yanqian Village, right by Star Lake. It’s very artsy with many charming cafes and restaurants. Try Zhaoqing’s wrapped steamed rice dumplings, much bigger than regular zongzi, filled with pork belly, salted egg yolk, and mung beans—very fragrant. 14:00 Find a lakeside café in Yanqian Village and spend the afternoon watching Star Lake and feeling the lake breeze—very cozy. The lakeside boardwalk in Yanqian Village is beautiful, perfect for an evening stroll to watch the sunset and the colorful clouds reflecting on the water. 19:30 Watch the Star Lake light show, held every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night. The music and lights are stunning and free—don’t miss it. Day 3: Song Dynasty City Wall + Duan Inkstone Cultural Experience 9:00 Visit the Song Dynasty City Wall, the best-preserved Song city wall in Guangdong, over 1,000 years old. Walking around the wall offers views of old Zhaoqing city. In June, bougainvillea blooms cover the wall, making it very photogenic. 11. 00 Go to Yuejiang Tower, the former site of Ye Ting’s Independent Regiment. The building features distinctive Lingnan architecture and houses many historical artifacts—worth a visit. 12. 00 Have lunch in the old city. Try Zhaoqing rice rolls and bamboo shoot noodles, very authentic and popular with locals. 14:00 Visit the Duan Inkstone Cultural Village to experience making Duan inkstones. Zhaoqing is the hometown of Duan inkstones. You can learn carving from a master. Although you won’t make a complete piece, the experience is fascinating and you’ll learn about the inkstone’s history. 16:00 Visit Mei’an, a thousand-year-old ancient temple with plum trees personally planted by the Sixth Patriarch Huineng. Although there are no plum blossoms in June, the temple is very quiet and architecturally unique—worth a visit. ⚠️ Pitfall Tips❌ 1. Don’t take the sightseeing bus at Dinghu Mountain; walking lets you see the best scenery and it’s not tiring since the path is flat. 2. Don’t buy boat tickets at the Seven Star Crags entrance; they’re expensive. Walking along the greenway offers better views. 3. Don’t buy wrapped steamed rice dumplings at the scenic area entrance; buy them at the old city market for 5 RMB each—authentic and cheap. 4. Must try Dinghu Mountain’s mountain spring tofu pudding, made with spring water, very smooth, 5 RMB a bowl. 💡 Practical Tips 1. June temperatures in Zhaoqing range from 25-33℃, but it’s only 21℃ in Dinghu Mountain, so bring a light jacket as it can be cold in the mountains. 2. Enter Dinghu Mountain before 6 AM for free admission. Early risers will find very few people. 3. Transportation: The Guangzhou-Shenzhen high-speed train to Zhaoqing East takes only 1-2 hours, very convenient. 4. On June 19, there’s a dragon boat race at Star Lake, very lively and showcasing authentic Lingnan folk customs—don’t miss it. Accommodation 🏨 Banshan Lanyue Designer Boutique Hotel (Zhaoqing Dinghu Mountain Branch) A national grade B guesthouse at the foot of Dinghu Mountain, featuring light luxury French design, outdoor pool + Chinese and Western restaurants, a top choice for social media check-ins. 🏨 Xinghu Lanyue Song Culture Guesthouse (Zhaoqing Seven Star Crags Scenic Area Branch) Lake-view guesthouse in Yanqian Village, themed on ancient Duanzhou Song culture, with full lake-view rooms and pavilions full of classical charm. 🏨 Yingnuo Yanbo Guesthouse (Zhaoqing Seven Star Crags Scenic Area Branch) Japanese-style light luxury guesthouse near Seven Star Crags, with private large bathtubs + deep sleep experience, quiet and comfortable with attentive service. 🏨 Zhaoqing Cat Paw・Totoro Beautiful Villa Family resort inside Cat Paw Valley Scenic Area, close to animals + water park + hot springs, a one-stop perfect place for kids.

Guangdong's ultimate spot for kids🔥 Zhaoqing Children's Park tickets only 5 RMB❗133 attractions you can't finish in one go Only 5 RMB per person for 133 amusement projects, spent a full 3 hours there😮 Kids keep cycling: just switched to a new one, then turn back to the old one to play again and again 📍Zhaoqing Children's Park 🎫Ticket: 5 RMB/person|Free for under 1.2m tall ▫️Lots of slides in various shapes, climbing nets, zip lines, swings, huge sandpit, covering all types ▫️Vending machines and affordable snack shops everywhere in the park, prices are very reasonable ▫️Hidden gem: the park has its own library📖 💡Note: tide pooling and petting zoo charge separately, but the free attractions are enough for a whole day of fun 🅿️Parking capped at 8 RMB all day ✅Zhaoqing one-day family itinerary|Top choice for short trips within the province Morning tea → Children's Park → Song City Wall + Arcade Street → 8 RMB water bus to Yanqian Peninsula → Qixingyan → Wrapped Sticky Rice Dumpling Food Street Very close to Shenzhen, few people, beautiful scenery, great value, perfect for weekend family outings🦆

Family trips around Guangdong|Healing journey to Dinghu Mountain and Seven Star Crags in Zhaoqing Escape the city noise and take the kids into a real-life Wizard of Oz! 🌿 Dinghu Mountain Lung-Cleansing Trip As soon as you enter Dinghu Mountain, you are surrounded by negative ions! The air is so fresh and sweet, truly living up to its reputation as a natural oxygen bar. Don’t miss Butterfly Valley, where the lake water is emerald green and crystal clear. Drift on a small boat on the lake, with only the sound of water ripples and birdsong—so healing. Kids can learn about various plants and butterflies and get close to nature. ✨ Seven Star Crags Dawn Redwood Forest Secret Spot The most stunning sight is the dawn redwood forest at Seven Star Crags! Tall dawn redwoods pierce the sky, sunlight filters through the leaves onto the wooden boardwalk, The dappled light looks like a movie scene, every shot is a forest-themed masterpiece. You might occasionally see little squirrels on the boardwalk, which excites the kids! In May, the forest is lush green; in December, it turns ochre red like an oil painting—beautiful all year round. 📝 Tips for Traveling with Kids 1. Enter through the North Gate of Seven Star Crags; the dawn redwood boardwalk is right at the entrance to save energy. 2. Take photos of the dawn redwood reflections from the glass boat—great for family photos. 3. Climb to the top of Tianzhu Rock to Star-Picking Pavilion for a panoramic view of Star Lake; it’s tiring but worth it. 4. Dress kids in comfortable sneakers and bring plenty of water and snacks. 💚 Spend the weekend with your kids in Zhaoqing, cleanse your lungs at Dinghu Mountain, and enjoy the eye-pleasing Seven Star Crags. The healing power of nature is truly amazing! Accommodation 🏨Lian’an Lakeside Inn The only national Class A tourist homestay in Zhaoqing, the first homestay on Yanqian Peninsula, with stunning lake views—top choice for family vacations. 🏨Inno Yanbo Homestay (Seven Star Crags Scenic Area Branch) Highly rated at 4.7, located in the core area of Seven Star Crags, with new facilities and good service, convenient for travel. 🏨Zhaoqing Yanxin Homestay Located in the core of Yanqian Village, just a few minutes’ walk to the south gate of the scenic area, with a bar street downstairs and mountain and water views from the window—great value for money. 🏨Zhaoqing Seven Star Crags Star Lake Atour Hotel Excellent breakfast and warm front desk service, located in the core area of Seven Star Crags, well-equipped, a comfortable choice for families with kids.

🌟 Zhaoqing 3 days 2 nights family trip, covering mountains, waters, and culture, super smooth route with no backtracking, easy to explore Zhaoqing with kids~ 🌳 Day 1 Dinghu Mountain Oxygen Tour In the morning, visit Dinghu Mountain, the Feishuitan Waterfall is spectacular, Qingyun Temple is solemn, the creek trail is perfect for kids to play in the water, the forest is full of negative oxygen ions, breathe in the fresh air deeply~ After descending, taste authentic wrapped steamed rice dumplings, soft glutinous rice with rich fillings, available for dine-in or as souvenirs 🏞️ Day 2 Seven Star Crags Scenic Beauty In the morning, visit Seven Star Crags Scenic Area, where karst peaks and lakes complement each other beautifully, take a boat ride or walk around the lake, every snapshot of the natural scenery looks like a masterpiece In the evening, stroll through Yanqian Village, enjoy the aroma of coffee from artistic shops, feel the evening breeze by the lake, relaxing and pleasant 🏯 Day 3 Old Town History and Culture Walk along the Song Dynasty city wall on the ancient path, feel the vicissitudes of history on the bluestone road; climb Piyun Tower for a panoramic view of Duanzhou Old Town, the ancient architecture is perfect for photos 💡 Family-friendly Tips Choose accommodation in Duanzhou District for convenient transportation, book attractions online in advance, Zhaoqing has a relaxed pace, very suitable for weekend family trips Experience Zhaoqing’s mountains, waters, and culture with kids, slow-paced vacation is super comfortable~ Accommodation 🏨Inno Yanbo Homestay (Zhaoqing Seven Star Crags Scenic Area Branch) Light luxury wooden minimalist style, outdoor pool for kids to play, free parking and full charging stations, top three boutique homestays in Zhaoqing 🏨Xishe Chanyuan (Zhaoqing Dinghu Mountain Branch) Zen-inspired residence by Dinghu Mountain, elegant vegetarian restaurant environment, 100 sqm cultural shared classroom, rich family study activities 🏨Lian’an Lake Residence Inn National Class A tourist homestay, the first boutique homestay on Yanqian Peninsula, lakeside view of Xinghu, attentive and detailed family services 🏨Xinghu Lanyue Song Culture Homestay Song culture themed homestay, three-carving art integrated into the architecture, immersive ancient style experience, let kids feel traditional culture ---

🌿 Zhaoqing Dinghu Mountain Special Forces Parent-Child One-Day Tour, don’t want to stay home in Guangzhou on the weekend! Decisively rush to Zhaoqing Dinghu Mountain✨ Special Forces style one-day round trip, easily check in at the Tropic of Cancer Emerald, oxygen intake + sightseeing without missing either, personally tested to be not tiring and very photogenic! 🚄 Parent-child transportation guide Guangzhou South → Zhaoqing East (High-speed train about 30 minutes, ticket price 25-33 RMB) Take a taxi directly from the station to the main entrance of Dinghu Mountain (25 minutes, 30-40 RMB) Total travel time less than 1 hour, early departure and late return is totally feasible, commuting-style travel is so great! You can also choose to take the city rail directly, multiple transportation options available 🗺️ Parent-child streamlined itinerary ❶ Main entrance → take the sightseeing bus directly to Baoding Garden The giant bronze ding is super impressive, climb up to overlook the panoramic view of the mountain and lake, every shot is a masterpiece, you can also hang a wish ball for blessings, full of ritual sense, take the kids to learn about bronze culture~ ❷ Walk → Butterfly Valley Must take the boat! 35 RMB/person The lake water is blue-green and transparent, like entering the Land of Oz, butterflies flutter in the forest, stepping in the creek water is super refreshing, perfect for summer heat relief💦 Kids love playing in the water and catching butterflies~ ❸ Sightseeing bus → Qingyun Temple One of the four famous temples in Lingnan, the ancient temple is hidden in the forest, incense is prosperous, red walls and ancient buildings are very Zen, photos are quiet and high-end, take the kids to experience traditional culture ❹ Walk → Feishuitan Waterfall The C-position scenic spot of Dinghu Mountain! The waterfall cascades down, the pool water is green and clear, Mr. Sun Yat-sen also swam here, standing in front of the waterfall for photos, the atmosphere is instantly elevated, mountain negative oxygen ions are maxed out, deep breaths are super healing ✅ Must-bring items for parent-child trip ✔️ Comfortable sports shoes (many steps throughout, easy on the feet) ✔️ Mosquito repellent + sunscreen (many mosquitoes in the forest, and the sun is strong) ✔️ Snacks + bottled water (prices in the scenic area are relatively high, travel light) ✔️ Light-colored clothes (great for photos, very matching with the forest) 💰 Cost reference Ticket 70 RMB|Half price for students / Free for full-time university students in Guangdong Sightseeing bus 20 RMB (must buy! Scenic spots are far apart, saves a lot of energy) Butterfly Valley boat 35 RMB|About 150 RMB per person for the whole trip, great value for money 💡 Parent-child travel tips ▪️ Recommend departure before 9 AM to avoid peak crowds, smoother experience ▪️ Whole trip by sightseeing bus + walking, no need to walk excessively, even lazy people can easily check in ▪️ Don’t descend too late, watch the high-speed train return time, perfect special forces loop For parent-child trips around Guangzhou, just rush to Dinghu Mountain without hesitation! Escape the city noise, immerse yourself in the greenery of the forest, one-day round trip is just right~🌳 Accommodation 🏨Xishe Chanyuan (Zhaoqing Dinghu Mountain Branch) Zen-style homestay by Dinghu Mountain, birds singing and flowers blooming by day, insects chirping and frogs croaking by night, vegetarian restaurant with elegant environment, cultural sharing classroom and parent-child activities 🏨Inno Yanbo Homestay (Zhaoqing Seven Star Crags Scenic Area Branch) Ranked third among Zhaoqing boutique homestays, built by Seven Star Crags with light luxury wooden minimalist style, outdoor swimming pool for parent-child water play, mountain scenery in full view 🏨Zhaoqing Shiyueji Shanlan Homestay (Yanquan Baohuan Avenue Branch) A niche high-end homestay in the middle of Yanquan Village, positioned as light luxury boutique, leisurely sitting to watch the star lake sunset, excellent location for parent-child travel 🏨Zhaoqing Catpaw Totoro Villa Forest-style resort hotel inside Catpaw Valley Scenic Area, nestled by mountains and water blending natural wild charm, outdoor swimming pool water park, parent-child cute pet interaction

No need to travel far! Departing from Guangzhou, Shenzhen, or Foshan, reach these 4 private hidden spots within 1-2 hours, avoid crowds, fully recharge, and take off for the weekend~ 🌿 Qingyuan · Yingxi Fenglin (1.5h by car) "Little Guilin of Guangdong," karst peak forest + rice paddies and streams, like stepping into an ink painting. · ✅ Must-do: Take reflection photos at Xiao Zhaozhou Bridge, cycle through rice fields, bamboo raft drifting, explore the thousand-year-old Yao village · 💡 Highlights: Free hiking, low commercialization, stunning morning mist views 🌊 Huizhou · Yanzhou Island (1h high-speed train + 30min taxi) A lesser-known island in the Pearl River Delta, an original fishing village, black reef rocks + glassy sea, super healing. · ✅ Must-do: Watch the sunset at Baisha Village, see egrets in the mangroves, shoot Japanese-style photos at Windmill Hill, beachcombing · 💡 Highlights: Few people, not crowded, cheap seafood, 100% sunset photo success rate 🏯 Jiangmen · Gulao Water Town (1h high-speed train / 1h10min by car) "Venice of Lingnan," ancient water village + crisscrossing rivers, leisurely rowing boat rides are very pleasant. · ✅ Must-do: Ride a rowing boat under stone bridges, visit Liang Zan’s former residence, see lotus ponds (summer), eat water town fish cakes · 💡 Highlights: Free admission, low commercialization, retains authentic water town life atmosphere 🌫️ Zhaoqing · Qixingyan (30min high-speed train) "The Number One Wonder of Lingnan," lake and mountain scenery + karst caves, serene landscape like a fairyland. · ✅ Must-do: Boat on Star Lake, check in at Shuiyue Palace, walk the Seven Star Bridge, night ride on transparent boats to watch the starry sky · 💡 Highlights: 30 minutes direct by high-speed train, affordable tickets, perfect for Hanfu photos with a fairy-like vibe 💡 Travel Tips · 👗 Dress: Casual and comfortable, bring sun protection and slippers for peak forests/islands · 🍜 Food: Eat Qingyuan chicken in Yingxi, seafood on Yanzhou Island, fish cakes in Gulao, and wrapped steamed rice dumplings in Zhaoqing · 📸 Best seasons: April-May, October-November, comfortable weather and best scenery

No need for special forces-style check-ins or early morning rushes. These cities offer a slow pace, great photo spots, delicious food, and sweet sleep. Traveling with your wife here guarantees zero complaints—once you visit, you'll want to stay forever! 1️⃣ Zhangzhou, Fujian A small town with a bone-deep slow pace, full of local charm · Ancient city arcade buildings and Confucian temple alleys, perfect for a relaxing stroll · Braised noodles, four-fruit soup, and sticky rice cakes—snacks to your heart’s content · Gentle seaside and peaceful ancient town, your wife will love taking photos 2️⃣ Zhaoqing, Guangdong Picturesque mountains and waters, a natural oxygen bar, the ultimate place to relax · Qixingyan’s lake and mountain scenery feels like stepping into a traditional Chinese ink painting · Dinghu Mountain for oxygen and lung cleansing, easy and healing · Affordable prices, comfortable food and lodging, no leg fatigue throughout the trip 3️⃣ Huzhou, Zhejiang The gentle land of Jiangnan, healing all your fatigue · Small bridges, flowing water, white walls, and black tiles create a full atmospheric vibe · Leisurely ancient towns with plenty of coffee, milk tea, and dessert shops · Slow pace, perfect for strolling and tea drinking, bursting with happiness 4️⃣ Leshan, Sichuan A food paradise, the top choice for eating and relaxing · Foot-soaking beef, sweet-skinned duck, and ice jelly—nonstop eating all the way · Blessings at the Giant Buddha, riverside walks, full relaxation vibes · Low cost, convenient food and lodging, your wife will be happy all day long ✅ The key to traveling with your wife: no exhaustion, great food, beautiful photos, and good mood These 4 cities are a sure bet—no risks, just relationship upgrades~

Traveling with kids during the March 3rd holiday? Avoid the crowds by taking a 2.5-hour direct trip from Nanning to Zhaoqing, Guangdong. Keep this family-friendly guide handy to unlock the charm of Lingnan’s mountains and waters, the ancient Song Dynasty city vibes, and private hot spring resorts all in one go. Traveling with kids has never been easier or more relaxed. 🏯 Must-visit family-friendly core attractions ▪️Qixingyan (Seven Star Crags) A secret realm of Lingnan ink-wash landscape, with karst peaks reflected in the lake, serene caves, and gentle park trails perfect for strolling with kids. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride without strenuous climbs, and teach your children about karst landforms while playing and learning. Every snapshot looks like a traditional Chinese family photo masterpiece. ▪️Piyun Tower A landmark building on the Song Dynasty city wall, grand and majestic. Climb up to overlook the entire old city, fully immersing in the atmosphere. Take your kids to check in at this historical site and deeply experience Lingnan Song Dynasty culture. ▪️Song City Arcade Street A Lingnan-style arcade street full of local life and charm. Stroll slowly and take great photos, plus enjoy plenty of local snacks. Perfect for a family outing combining sightseeing and tasting, soaking in the slow pace of the old city. 🏨 Core recommendation | Wyndham Grand Zhaoqing Seven Star Crags Hotel An excellent choice for this family trip, with a prime location right next to Qixingyan. It’s super convenient for visiting major attractions. The room features a private warm mineral spring bath, so you can soak with your kids without leaving your room. Relax and enjoy the view while bathing in the evening—both soothing and healing. The hotel also offers an indoor heated pool, kids’ playground, spa, and other comprehensive facilities. Whether for family trips or couples’ vacations, it’s perfectly suited. After a day of fun with the kids, you can relax all in one place. 🍽 Family-exclusive dining arrangements ✔️ A rich hotel buffet breakfast with Chinese and Western dishes, Cantonese dim sum, and made-to-order stations. Dine in a panoramic floor-to-ceiling window restaurant to start your kids’ day full of energy. ✔️ Lunch at Liufu Restaurant, serving authentic Cantonese flavors. The dishes are mild, tender, non-spicy, and perfect for children, with fresh ingredients and great taste. ✔️ Dinner features the hotel’s star-rated buffet with live seafood, fresh meats, cooked dishes, and desserts in abundance. Fresh ingredients with unlimited servings mean you get great value and everyone, adults and kids alike, can eat to their heart’s content. This is how you enjoy Zhaoqing with kids during the March 3rd holiday: explore the ancient city, admire the mountains and waters, stay in a luxury hotel, and soak in private hot springs. No rush, just comfort and quality. For family trips around Guangxi, this is the perfect choice. Accommodations 🏨Xinghu Sunshine Hotel A high-end resort hotel by Xinghu Lake with stunning lake views, complete family facilities, and close to Qixingyan for super convenient travel. 🏨Dinghu Mountain Hotel Located near Dinghu Mountain Scenic Area, this hotel offers a quiet environment, spacious family rooms, and easy access for mountain and water adventures with kids. 🏨Xinghu Cottage Resort Homestay A garden-style homestay by Qixingyan with window views of Xinghu Lake, cozy design, and a strong family vacation vibe. 🏨Duanzhou Hilton Hampton Hotel A branded hotel in the core area of Duanzhou, Zhaoqing, with complete facilities, comfortable family rooms, and very convenient for visiting major attractions.

I honestly did not expect this in Zhaoqing… 😳✨ Everyone talks about the lake, the bridges, and the famous karst peaks at Seven Star Crags, but stepping into the caves felt like entering a completely different world. One moment you are in peaceful Lingnan scenery, and the next you are surrounded by glowing chambers, still underground water, surreal reflections, and rock formations lit up in electric blue, emerald green, hot pink, and deep red. It feels half nature, half dream, half old-school fantasy movie 🎨🪨💙 Seven Star Crags is one of Zhaoqing’s best-known scenic areas, built around seven limestone peaks arranged like the Big Dipper, with karst caves and lake scenery as major highlights. What makes these caves so memorable is the contrast. Outside, the whole area is elegant and classic, with calm water and iconic rock peaks. Inside, the cave spaces suddenly become dramatic, glowing, and almost otherworldly. The reflections in the underground pools are so perfect that some corners look like a mirror into another dimension. If you love places that are visually overwhelming in the best possible way, this is absolutely one of those spots 📸🌈💦 The scenic area is especially known for its combination of peaks, lakes, caves, inscriptions, and temples, and cave lovers are often directed to areas like Stone Chamber Cave for stalactites, stalagmites, and historic carvings. What I loved most was that the caves don’t just feel like a quick stop. They feel cinematic. Every turn gives you another glowing corridor, another strange rock curtain, another pool reflecting impossible colors. It is the kind of place where you keep thinking “okay, this next chamber can’t possibly get prettier,” and then it does 😍 A few tips if you go: ✨ Give yourself at least half a day so you don’t rush ✨ Wear comfortable shoes because the scenic area is large ✨ Keep your camera ready because the cave lighting looks incredible in photos ✨ Pair it with a walk around the lake for the full Seven Star Crags experience Trip.com lists Seven Star Crags as a classic karst scenic area in Duanzhou District, and suggests around 3–5 hours for sightseeing, so it works really well as a half-day or relaxed day trip stop in Zhaoqing. If you’re looking for somewhere in Guangdong that feels a little unexpected, a little magical, and very photogenic, this is such a good one. The caves at Seven Star Crags are not just beautiful, they are the kind of beautiful that makes you stop walking and just stare for a second 🌌🪨✨ #Zhaoqing #SevenStarCrags #Qixingyan #GuangdongTravel #ChinaTravel #KarstLandscape #CaveExploring #HiddenGem #ScenicChina #TravelPhotography #NatureLovers #TripMoments #UndergroundWonder #Lingnan #chinatrip #hiddenspots

High-speed train from Nanning takes just 2 hours to reach this underrated treasure city in Guangdong—Zhaoqing! It’s quiet with beautiful landscapes like paintings, perfect for a two-day, one-night trip to cover the highlights without the crowds. Stay comfortably and have a great time. March 3rd and Labor Day are ideal for family travel. 🗓️ Two-day, one-night family itinerary Day 1 Scenic Healing Route: Seven Star Crags → Wetland Park → Xinghu Greenway → Yanqian Village → Seven Star Crags Archway Day 2 Cultural Study Route: Song Dynasty City Wall → Piyun Tower → Yuejiang Tower → Qilou Street ✨ Must-visit family highlights 1️⃣ Seven Star Crags: Karst peak forest reflected on the lake, take kids to walk the Longyan plank road, see cliff inscriptions, and immerse in the natural wonders 2️⃣ Xinghu Wetland Park: Watch red-crowned cranes being released, check out Flamingo Island, enjoy a soothing boat ride, teach kids about wetlands, and bike along Xinghu Greenway while feeling the lake breeze and enjoying the scenery 3️⃣ Yanqian Village: Zhaoqing’s version of “The Windy Place,” with many boutique cafes, restaurants, and specialty shops—rest and recharge anytime when tired 4️⃣ Seven Star Crags Archway: Watch the music fountain at night, stroll the Zijing West Embankment night market, and try various local snacks 5️⃣ Song Dynasty City Wall: The best-preserved Song city wall in Guangdong, bring kids to climb Piyun Tower for ancient-style photos and learn about Song Dynasty history 6️⃣ Yuejiang Tower (Zhaoqing Museum): Explore Duan inkstone culture and historical artifacts with kids for an immersive educational experience 7️⃣ Qilou Street: Walk with kids through the old town, experience Lingnan’s vibrant local life, and enjoy Zhaoqing specialties like wrapped steamed rice dumplings, rice rolls, and fresh river delicacies 💡 Practical family travel tips Nanning → Zhaoqing East by high-speed train takes about 2 hours. Getting around the city by taxi or bike is very convenient, making family travel super flexible. Local specialty food recommendations: wrapped steamed rice dumplings, Xijiang river fresh seafood, rice rolls, and mountain water tofu pudding—perfect for kids to try one by one. Accommodation 🏨Grand Zhaoqing Seven Star Crags Hotel A 5A scenic area high-end hotel by the lake at Seven Star Crags, enjoy lake and mountain views right outside your door. Rooms feature balconies with soaking tubs, indoor and outdoor pools, hot springs, and a water park—an all-in-one family vacation spot. 🏨Xinghu Lirui Hotel A boutique design hotel near Seven Star Crags, adjacent to Yanqian Village, with family rooms and leisure public areas. Walking distance to Seven Star Crags scenic area, super convenient for sightseeing, dining, and family fun. 🏨Sheraton Hotel A high-end hotel in Zhaoqing New District, close to Dinghu Mountain scenic area, featuring a large family pool, kids’ playground, and a variety of family activities, creating a full vacation vibe. 🏨Lian’an Lake View Hotel A lakeside homestay inside Yanqian Village at Seven Star Crags, with lakefront rooms and a large viewing terrace. Instagram-style design perfect for photos, walking distance to the scenic area entrance, very convenient for family outings.

Nearby Travel | Zhaoqing Seven Star Crags Wyndham Couples vacation, traveling with kids, friends outing Highly recommended~ A paradise for kids, water play, ball pool, and you can also take the kids hiking and biking 【Play - Inside the Hotel】 ✅ Outdoor water park and hot spring pools: There are 13 natural mineral hot spring pools, plus mineral springs and a water park. The outdoor pools are also warm water, simply amazing... ✅ Indoor water park: The entire basement level is a heated water park, so you can enjoy water fun all year round. Kids who love water will really enjoy it! ✅ Children's playground: ball pool, climbing frames, table football, slides, etc. Just swipe your room card to enter, very convenient! ✅ Go-karts, gym, and right outside the door is Seven Star Crags ✅ Hotel dining 🦞 After playing, head straight to the seafood buffet theme! Fresh and sweet seafood, plus freshly sliced sashimi! Enjoy live performances by resident singers while you eat 🎤 【Play - Nearby】 1. Next to the outdoor water park, there is an exit where you can swipe your room card to go directly to Star Lake. Riding bikes or scooters around Star Lake is super comfortable. You can rent bikes; 30 RMB per hour for bikes, 20 RMB for electric bikes, your choice~ 2. You can take a boat ride at Seven Star Crags, and in the evening walk to the Seven Star Crags Music Fountain to watch the music fountain show (starts at 8 PM); 3. A 30-minute drive to Dinghu Mountain for free hiking~ 🏨 Hotel: Zhaoqing Seven Star Crags Wyndham Grand Hotel 📍 Address: No. 13, Section 5, Xinghu Avenue, Duanzhou District

Taking the whole family to Zhaoqing for a parent-child trip? Choosing this hidden gem homestay next to Qixingyan is just right! The unbeatable lake view is breathtaking, the service is super thoughtful, the self-operated restaurant offers a wide variety of delicious food, and you can enjoy a 360° panoramic view of Qixingyan Lake. Relax while watching the kids play, parents can unwind, elders feel comfortable, and kids have fun—it's simply the perfect choice for family trips! ✔ Qixingyan Frontline Lake View ✔️ Terrace for Parent-Child Viewing ✔️ 24-Hour Attentive Butler Service ✔️ Self-Operated Family Restaurant ✅ 360° Unbeatable Lake View, Super Healing Parent-Child Time The homestay faces Qixingyan directly, and every room offers stunning lake views. The large viewing balcony is an excellent spot for family check-ins. In the morning, watch the sunrise with the kids on the balcony, taking in the lake and mountain scenery. In the evening, enjoy the sunset with the glow reflecting on the lake—so beautiful it feels unreal. Kids can feed fish and watch birds on the balcony, releasing their natural energy in the lake scenery while parents sit nearby sipping tea and relaxing. This is what a vacation should be like. ✅ Super Thoughtful Parent-Child Services, Full of Details The landlady and staff are very enthusiastic and especially caring towards children and elders. They thoughtfully prepare children's slippers, toiletries, baby tableware, and small toys. The butler provides one-on-one service throughout, helping with luggage and planning parent-child travel routes. They clearly explain travel tips for Qixingyan and Dinghu Mountain and are available anytime for any needs. The parking service at the door is very convenient, so no worries about parking when traveling with kids, and elders don’t have to walk too far—details are very considerate. ✅ Self-Operated Family Restaurant, Enjoy Delicious Food to Your Heart’s Content The homestay’s self-operated restaurant has a fantastic environment, built by the lake, allowing you to enjoy delicious food while admiring the lake view, creating a great atmosphere. Breakfast is freshly cooked with a wide variety including porridge, noodles, buns, eggs, milk, and fruit, suitable for both elders and kids. For lunch and dinner, you can try Thai cuisine and local Zhaoqing dishes. The chef’s skills are excellent, with dishes that are mild and balanced in flavor. Customized children’s meals are also available, making kids happy and parents worry-free. The restaurant is clean and hygienic, equipped with high chairs and sterilization supplies, ensuring a safe dining experience for families. ✅ Nearby Parent-Child Attractions, Easily Explore Zhaoqing 1. Qixingyan Scenic Area: Within walking distance, take the kids boating on the lake, explore caves, climb small hills, see karst peak forests, and enjoy parent-child hiking. 2. Dinghu Mountain: A half-hour drive, take the kids to a natural oxygen bar, creek trekking, waterfall viewing, and breathe fresh air. 3. Zhaoqing Song City Wall: A 20-minute drive, take the kids to explore the ancient city, check in at Piyun Tower, and experience historical culture. 4. Bohai Park: A 10-minute walk, take the kids to the park, ride shared bikes, and enjoy the lake scenery. Accommodation 🏨 Country Garden Phoenix Hotel A family-friendly star-rated resort hotel with a large children’s playground and water park, offering plenty of activities for kids and comprehensive facilities. 🏨 Xinghu Shanshui Fashion Hotel A family hotel next to Qixingyan with affordable lake view rooms, family room types, and equipped with small beds for children. 🏨 Dinghu Mountain Shanshuiju Family Homestay A homestay inside Dinghu Mountain Scenic Area, hidden in the forest, offering parent-child tea experiences and introducing kids to tea culture.

Visiting Zhaoqing in March is really comfortable! 🌿 Neither too cold nor too hot, and the tourists are not overwhelming. Strongly recommended for Guangdong nearby travel enthusiasts! Here’s a painstakingly compiled guide, keep it safe and no need to thank me~ Location Zhaoqing is in the central-western part of Guangdong, just over an hour’s drive from Guangzhou, with very convenient high-speed rail access to Zhaoqing East Station. It is embraced by the Xijiang River and boasts two major highlights: Seven Star Crags and Dinghu Mountain, making it a true representative of a “mountain and water city.” 🍜 Food Recommendations (Drool-worthy Edition) Coming to Zhaoqing and not trying the food is a waste! The top must-try is Zhaoqing Wrapped Steamed Rice Dumplings, made by wrapping glutinous rice, mung beans, and pork belly in winter bamboo leaves, slow-cooked over a wood fire for hours. It’s savory, soft, and filling. For breakfast, try Deqing Bamboo Pole Rice Noodles, where the rice sheets are hung on bamboo poles to cool, with a fresh bamboo aroma mixed with rice fragrance, and mixed with beef brisket sauce—absolutely delicious. For main meals, recommend Xijiang River fresh fish, steamed to perfection, with the “one fish three ways” at Liminju Restaurant being famous. Also try Fengkai Apricot Blossom Chicken (best as white-cut), Sihui Tea Oil Chicken, and Dinghu Vegetarian Delicacies (top-notch vegetarian dishes). Don’t miss the snacks like Guangning Wontons (thin skin, tasty filling) and Duanzhou Beef Offal (most flavorful street stall). 🏨 Accommodation Guide Strongly suggest staying in Duanzhou District, very close to Seven Star Crags, Song City Wall, and Yanqian Village. Checked some well-reviewed hotels on Trip.com: Licheng Langyu Hotel (Zhaoqing Railway Station Seven Star Crags Scenic Area Branch): Rated 4.8, some rooms have views of Star Lake, new facilities, family rooms available. Vienna International Hotel (Zhaoqing City Center Lake View Branch): Established chain, central location, lake view rooms with great vistas. Zhaoqing Boyin Hotel (Star Lake Tourist Area Seven Star Crags Archway Branch): Rated 4.9, strong design sense, supreme lake view rooms, close to Archway Square music fountain. If budget allows, go for Zhaoqing Star Lake Grand Hotel, a long-established luxury hotel with stunning lake view suites overlooking Star Lake. For homestays, Yanqian Village has many artistic lakeside guesthouses, known as the “Zhaoqing version of Gulangyu,” perfect for photos. 🚶‍♀️ Itinerary Planning (3 days 2 nights lazy version) Day 1: Morning check-in and drop luggage → Lunch with Wrapped Steamed Rice Dumplings → Afternoon visit Seven Star Crags (karst landscape + lake and mountain scenery, must-see Longyan Cave and cliff carvings) → Evening stroll by the lake in Yanqian Village, find a café to watch the sunset → Night watch Archway Square music fountain. Day 2: Breakfast Bamboo Pole Rice Noodles → Full day at Dinghu Mountain (the green gem on the Tropic of Cancer, must-see Feishuitan Waterfall and Qingyun Temple, oxygen-rich and refreshing) → Try Dinghu Vegetarian Delicacies after descending → Evening stroll at Song City Arcade Street, the night scene is full of Republic of China era charm. Day 3: Breakfast Guangning Wontons → Morning visit Zhaoqing Museum or Bao Gong Cultural Park (free, learn about history) → Lunch with river fresh fish → Afternoon at Yanyang Lake Park to shoot the “Sky Mirror” → Buy some Wrapped Steamed Rice Dumplings as souvenirs, then happily head home. 📸 Photo Spots (Social Media Like Magnets) Seven Star Crags: Karst peak forest reflected in the lake, like an ink painting. In March, the peach blossoms on Peach Blossom Island bloom even more beautifully. Zhuoying Pavilion and Bald Cypress Forest (with mist devices, very ethereal) are excellent photo spots. Song City Arcade Street + Ancient City Wall: Neon lights come on at dusk, full retro Republic of China vibe, the night view of Piyun Building is dazzling, wearing Hanfu or qipao for photos is very atmospheric. Yanyang Lake Park: The waterside platform looks like a sky mirror, reflecting blue sky and white clouds, perfect for simple and fresh style shots. Yanqian Village: A row of artistic lakeside shops and guesthouses, somewhat reminiscent of Xiamen’s Gulangyu, lakeside seats are very chill for photos. Dinghu Mountain Feishuitan: With waterfall background, wearing flowing dresses creates a lively forest vibe. Gaoyao District No. 48 Lighthouse: A new popular spot, white lighthouse + colorful walkway + river view, full of Instagram vibes. ⚠️ Pitfall Avoidance Tips March in Zhaoqing has more rain, remember to bring an umbrella! Weather is changeable, check the forecast before going out. Seven Star Crags and Dinghu Mountain scenic areas are quite large, wear comfortable shoes or your feet will suffer. For river fresh fish, apricot blossom chicken, and other specialties, it’s best to go to long-established local restaurants or farmhouse eateries, avoid tourist trap vendors at scenic area entrances. Use ride-hailing apps with clear pricing for taxis; public buses between scenic spots are fairly convenient, but some attractions are scattered, so self-driving or chartering is more flexible. When buying Wrapped Steamed Rice Dumplings and other souvenirs, choose reputable old shops; roadside stalls may have inconsistent quality. 😫 A Tough Experience At Dinghu Mountain, I squatted on slippery rocks for half an hour trying to get the perfect angle of Feishuitan Waterfall, my legs went numb and I couldn’t stand up, and I got splashed all over… Behind every beautiful photo is a story of hardship! 💭 Personal Ramblings This March trip coincided with the Guangfu Cultural Temple Fair (until March 3), with intangible cultural heritage parades from Seven Star Crags East Gate Square to Archway Square, featuring lion dances, Bao Gong patrols, and robot interactions—lively and fun. Zhaoqing’s pace is slow, the mountains and waters are healing, the food is genuine, and costs are low, really perfect for a weekend getaway. I booked a hotel and ticket combo on Trip.com, which was quite cost-effective. Have you discovered any hidden gems or niche photo spots in Zhaoqing in March? Or any more authentic restaurant recommendations? Fellow experts, share your better suggestions in the comments! 👇😘

“The Emerald on the Tropic of Cancer” lives up to its name! In February, spring just begins to bloom in Zhaoqing, and the temperature is just right~ After three days of exploring, here’s my summary: the scenery is breathtaking, the cultural heritage is rich, and the food is delicious and affordable! Below is my genuine experience plus a super detailed guide—ladies, just copy it! 🏞️ Three-day itinerary: Every day has its highlight!​ Day 1: Seven Star Crags’ lake and mountain scenery + Xinghu Lake night view​ Morning: Head straight to Seven Star Crags (ticket 70 RMB, half price for students). The karst peaks reflected in the lake are like a mini Guilin! Highly recommend the Bald Cypress Forest and Longyan Cave; the stalactites inside the cave look magical under the lights. Remember to wear non-slip shoes~ Noon: Have a simple meal inside the scenic area or go to the nearby “Xinghu Yifang” mall to try Zhaoqing’s wrapped steamed rice dumplings (glutinous rice + mung beans + pork, warm and sticky!). Evening: Watch the sunset at Xinghu Wetland Park (free!), the lake surface glows golden at dusk, and don’t miss the red-crowned crane release show (10:30/15:30)! Night tour of Songcheng Qilou Street, the lanterns lit up create a strong time-travel vibe. Buy freshly made wrapped steamed rice dumplings to eat while strolling~ Day 2: Oxygen boost at Dinghu Mountain + Blessing tour​ Morning: Rush to Dinghu Mountain (ticket 70 RMB)! Take the electric cart to Feishuitan first; the waterfall water is crystal clear, and Sun Yat-sen once swam here~ The stream flows all the way, with an ultra-high negative ion count (100,000+/cm³), making the air feel sweet! Noon: At the foot of the mountain, try mountain water tofu pudding (6 RMB), a special combo of sweet and savory! Recommended local way is with chopped pickled vegetables. Afternoon: Visit Qingyun Temple (one of the four famous Lingnan temples), touch the thousand-year-old white tea flower tree for good luck~ In the evening, go to Baoding Garden for a panoramic view; the bronze cauldron looks magnificent under the sunset! Day 3: Ancient city cultural stroll + Artistic finale​ Morning: Walk along the Song City Wall (free), the millennium-old wall is well preserved. Climb Piyun Tower for a full city view~ Noon: Visit Mei’an (free, ID registration required) for a peaceful check-in, the place where the Sixth Patriarch Huineng planted plum trees, with ancient bodhi trees full of Zen vibes. Evening: Stroll the Zijing West Embankment cultural and creative street flower market (until February 23), buy handmade crafts, and watch the light show to end a perfect trip! Must-visit checklist! Missing these spots means missing out!​ Seven Star Crags Bald Cypress Forest​ Feature: In winter, the red and yellow cypress trees mix beautifully, with wooden bridges and plank paths perfect for photos! Tip: Early morning or evening light is soft; wear light-colored dresses for stunning reflections~ Dinghu Mountain Feishuitan​ Feature: Waterfall + deep pool combo, water so clear you can see the bottom! Reminder: Some sections require hiking, wear comfortable shoes~ Songcheng Qilou Street​ Feature: Free! At night, lanterns light up and instantly transport you to the Republic era, with snack stalls everywhere! Paid option: Hanfu rental (about 50 RMB/hour), wearing traditional costumes for photos is very fitting! 🏨 Accommodation recommendations: Convenient and cost-effective places to stay!​ Zhaoqing Xinghu Lanyue Song Culture Hotel: Near Seven Star Crags, Song dynasty style design + courtyard koi pond, rooms equipped with projectors, great for couples/families~ Dinghu Mountain Qigu Mountain Lodge: Mountain foot homestay, floor-to-ceiling windows with mountain views, constant temperature soaking pool to relax! The owner gives thoughtful mugwort foot bath packs~ 🚌 Transportation tips​ Buses are very convenient: From downtown to Dinghu Mountain takes about 1 hour by bus (4.5 RMB), take K02 bus (10 RMB) directly to Seven Star Crags. Heads-up: Scenic area electric carts save energy, but the Dinghu Mountain bus only goes to Baoding Garden (scenery is average), Feishuitan requires walking. 🍜 Food highlights! Mouth-watering alert!​ Shengji Food Stall (Wenming Road): Crispy chicken skin with tender meat, fish head in sauce so fresh you’ll lick the plate! About 50 RMB per person to eat your fill. Yuxiang Rice Shop (Tianning North Road): Zhaoqing rice noodles are smooth, paired with stuffed tofu is a must! The broth is made from pork bones, rich and fragrant~ Street stalls: Dinghu Mountain tofu pudding is refreshing, wrapped steamed rice dumplings are generously filled and soft, only 5 RMB each—super affordable! 💰 Three-day expenses record (per person reference)​ Tickets: Seven Star Crags 70 + Dinghu Mountain 70 = 140 RMB (half price with student ID!) Accommodation: Two nights in a homestay about 800 RMB (split 400 RMB/person) Meals: Main meals 50-80 RMB per person, snacks 30 RMB daily, about 300 RMB for three days Transportation: Bus + taxi about 100 RMB Total cost ≈ 940 RMB, incredible value! Free mountain and water views, affordable food, perfect for students~ 📸 Photo spots revealed!​ Seven Star Crags Bald Cypress wooden bridge: Shoot from a low angle for a sense of depth, reflections on the lake add points! Dinghu Mountain Feishuitan stone carving: Use the “Zhenliu” stone carving as foreground, waterfall as background, capturing both culture and nature~ Song City Wall Piyun Tower top: Overhead shot of old street + distant mountains, super romantic at sunset! ⚠️ Tips to avoid pitfalls​ Baoding Garden at Dinghu Mountain can be skipped; better to spend more time hiking and breathing fresh air. Mei’an closes at 4:00 PM! Remember to go early. Some scenic spots have weak signal (like Bao Gong Temple), bring cash! 💬 Personal feelings​ Zhaoqing is perfect for slow travel! Hiking, boating, praying, and eating delicious food every day, the pace is just right~ Especially the Xinghu Lake night view and Dinghu Mountain oxygen bar completely cured my urban anxiety! I also caught the Spring Festival temple fair (lasting until Lantern Festival), fireworks + lion dance were super lively! Any travel pros with secret tips? Please recommend in the comments!​ 😘

📍Itinerary Overview Zhaoqing 3 Days 2 Nights Free Travel 🚩Travel Route Day 1: Ancient City Wall (Chaotian Gate, Piyun Tower), Zhaoqing Museum, Paifang Square Music Fountain Day 2: Dinghu Mountain (Treasure Tripod Toss, Baoding Lake, Qingyun Temple), Seven Star Crags Scenic Area (Enter from North Gate, Exit from East Gate) Day 3: Lake Cruise 🏖️Must-Visit Attractions Chaotian Gate, Piyun Tower, Baoding Lake, Qingyun Temple, Rainy Cedars (North Gate of Seven Star Crags), Star Lake. 🚇Transportation Zhaoqing does not have a metro system, but ride-hailing services are very convenient. The Ancient City Wall and Paifang Square are within a 30-minute walking distance from hotels. A ride-hailing trip from hotels to Dinghu Mountain takes about 40 minutes and costs around 50 RMB. 📷Photo Spots 🍜Local Delicacies Seafood buffet, Dinghu vegetarian dishes, Cantonese cuisine. Prices in Zhaoqing are lower than in Guangzhou, offering great value for money. 🏠Accommodation Recommendations 1. Chaoman Hotel (Zhaoqing Seven Star Crags Paifang Ancient City Wall Scenic Area Branch) 💡Tips: