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Discover the history and culture of Guangzhou from the Sacred Heart Cathedral

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The Sacred Heart Cathedral of Guangzhou, also known as the “Stone Room,” is a Gothic Catholic church with profound historical and cultural significance located at 56 Old Buqian Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province. The following is a detailed introduction to its history and culture:

Historical Evolution

  • Foundation and Construction: The construction of the Sacred Heart Cathedral of Guangzhou began in the 14th year of the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty (1888), but its foundation ceremony can be traced back to June 28th, 1863, the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The church took 25 years to complete, a time span that not only witnessed the arduous process of its construction but also embodied the exchange and fusion of Chinese and Western cultures.
  • Designers and Builders: The church was designed by French architects and built by Chinese craftsmen. This Sino-Western collaboration allowed the church to retain the essence of Gothic architecture while incorporating traditional Chinese architectural elements, making it an artistic masterpiece that blends East and West.
  • Important Renovations: Over the years, the Sacred Heart Cathedral has undergone numerous renovations and preservation efforts. In particular, in 2004, the Guangzhou Municipal Government allocated special funds, and the church also raised funds on its own, to conduct a comprehensive repair of the church, preserving its original charm and beauty.

Architectural Features

  • Magnificent Scale: The Sacred Heart Cathedral of Guangzhou has a building area of 2,754 square meters, with a width of 35 meters and a length of 78.69 meters from north to south. It stands 58.5 meters tall from the ground to the pinnacle of the tower. It is one of the most magnificent double-spire Gothic buildings in China and one of the four all-stone Gothic churches in the world (the other three are Notre-Dame de Paris, Westminster Abbey, and Cologne Cathedral).
  • Unique Shape: The church boasts a towering appearance, with a deep interior space and exquisite detailing. Its towering towers, massive columns, pointed arches on the roof, and stained glass windows together constitute its unique Gothic architectural style. In particular, the pair of towering double-spire stone towers (hollow octagonal cones) on the facade are the landmark of the church.
  • Stone Craftsmanship: All the walls and columns of the church are built with granite, hence its name “Stone Room.” The stones are laid with tung oil and glutinous rice paste, and the joints are straight and even. The numerous carvings inside and outside, even the rose window grilles, are carved from stone and fitted together seamlessly, demonstrating superb stonework techniques and structural precision.

Cultural Significance

  • Religious Faith Center: As the main cathedral of the Guangzhou Diocese of the Catholic Church, the Sacred Heart Cathedral of Guangzhou is not only a center of religious faith but also an important venue for believers to conduct religious activities.
  • Sino-Western Cultural Exchange: The construction and design of the church are the result of the collaboration between Chinese and French craftsmen. It not only embodies the essence of Gothic architectural style but also incorporates traditional Chinese architectural elements, serving as a vivid example of the exchange and fusion of Chinese and Western cultures with foreigner.
  • Cultural Heritage: On November 20th, 1996, the Sacred Heart Cathedral of Guangzhou was announced as the fourth batch of national key cultural relics protection units by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China. It not only has high historical, architectural, and artistic values but also significant cultural significance.

In summary, the Sacred Heart Cathedral of Guangzhou is a treasure trove of history, culture, architecture, and art. It not only witnesses the spread and development of Catholicism in Guangzhou but also showcases the historical achievements of Sino-Western cultural exchange and fusion. For tourists interested in modern Chinese history, architectural art, or Christian culture, the Sacred Heart Cathedral of Guangzhou is a must-see destination.

Cultural Exploration in Yuexiu District, Guangzhou: 8 Must-Visit Destinations

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Guangzhou, this city steeped in history, boasts a profound cultural heritage, and Yuexiu District, as its core area, carries countless memories of the past. Here are 8 must-visit destinations in YUEXIU District, Guangzhou, which not only showcase its cultural depth but also serve as a paradise for photography enthusiasts.

1. Yuexiu Park

  • Highlight: As one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Guangzhou, Yuexiu Park is home to numerous historic sites such as the Ming Dynasty Ancient City Wall, Sun Yat-sen Monument, and Zhenhai Tower, each brick and tile telling a story of the past. It is also an important venue for the inheritance and dissemination of various intangible cultural heritage projects in Guangzhou.
  • Activities: Regular cultural events like flower exhibitions are held here, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of nature while delving into the artistic culture of Guangzhou.

2. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall

  • Feature: Designed by renowned architect Lv Yanzhi, it seamlessly blends the appearance of an Song Dynasty palace with a Western-style Byzantine dome, showcasing the essence of both Chinese and Western architecture.
  • Experience: Stepping into the Memorial Hall, visitors are transported back in time, feeling the grandeur of Sun Yat-sen’s spirit and the rich history of Guangzhou.

3. Sacred Heart Cathedral

  • Status:Sacred Heart Cathedral is One of the four fully stone-structured Gothic churches in the world, alongside Notre-Dame de Paris, Westminster Abbey, and Cologne Cathedral. It is also the largest cathedral in the Guangzhou Diocese.
  • Sightseeing: The cathedral’s magnificent exterior and exquisite interior decoration make it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.

4. Beijing Road

  • History: One of the oldest streets in Guangzhou, dating back to at least the Tang and Song Dynasties. It has witnessed the city’s evolution and retains a wealth of historical relics and cultural elements.
  • Exploration: Walking along Beijing Road, visitors can visit historic sites such as the Palace of the Nanyue King, the Grand Buddha Temple, and the Ming City God Temple, immersing themselves in the profound history of Guangzhou. Don’t forget to try the traditional delicacies at the time-honored shops, embarking on a culinary journey through Guangzhou’s flavors.

5. Guangzhou Zoo

  • Feature: A historic and distinctive urban zoo with over 400 species and 5,000 animals from both China and abroad, including rare species like giant pandas and golden snub-nosed monkeys.
  • Family Fun: An ideal destination for family outings and parent-child interactions, allowing children to get close to nature and broaden their horizons.

6. Dongshankou

  • Fashion: Renowned as the trendiest hub in Guangzhou, attracting a large number of fashionistas.
  • Experience: Strolling through Dongshankou, visitors can appreciate the fusion of Chinese and Western architectural styles, experiencing the unique blend of retro and modernity that characterizes Guangzhou’s culture.

7. Liuhua Lake Park

  • Landscape: Characterized by distinct subtropical scenery, the park boasts a variety of plants, including palm trees, banyan trees, flowering shrubs, and expansive lawns, creating a unique natural landscape.
  • Leisure: A popular spot for residents to relax and unwind, it is also a paradise for birdwatchers. Admire the Lingnan bonsai art at Liuhua West Garden or observe the birds flying freely on Lu Island.

8. Additional Recommendations (Optional Based on Interest)

  • Chen Clan Ancestral Hall: A treasure of Lingnan architecture, renowned for its exquisite woodcarvings, stone carvings, brick carvings, and paintings.
  • Nanyue King Palace Museum: Showcasing the history, culture, and archaeological discoveries of the Nanyue Kingdom, it is an important window for understanding ancient civilizations in Guangzhou.

picure by xiaohongshu

Citywalk| Guangzhou Liuhua Lake Park Tour Guide

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Whenever people mention parks in Guangzhou, the first time will always think of Liuhua Lake Park,it truly a treasure trove worthy of multiple visits! Located at No. 100 Liuhua Road, Yuexiu District, it boasts a vast area of 544,300 square meters, with 60% of that being the serene lake. Upon entering the park, one’s eyes are immediately drawn to the “White House” in the midst of the lake! This Euro-classical white building, originally named “Shuhong Pavilion,” has been transformed into the Guangzhou Garden Museum, preserving beauty for the lens to gently capture and convey warmth and tenderness to every soul that beholds it.

Deep within the park lies the finest bonsai-themed garden in Lingnan, a serene oasis of exquisite miniaturization, pavilions and towers, rockeries and babbling streams, covered walkways, and floral windows—each element exuding a rich Lingnan charm.

🏞️ Liuhua Lake Park Exploration Route:
📍Yuexiu Park Subway Station → 📍Enter via Liuhua Lake’s North Gate or Northeast Gate → 📍Visit the Little White Palace → 📍Ascend to Wangyuan Pavilion (on Furongzhou Island) → 📍Stroll by Fuchou → 📍Walk through the Deciduous Bald Cypress Forest → 📍Admire the Frankfurt Garden → 📍Exit via Liuhua Lake’s Northeast Gate

🎫Admission: Free
🕐Visiting Hours: 6:00-22:00
🚇Subway: Exit D1 of Yuexiu Park Station (Line 2)
🚇Alternatively: Exit B of Caihongqiao Station (Line 8, this exit is farther from the Northeast Gate but closer to the South Gate)

🏬Surrounding Malls: Liuhua Center (beverages, full meals, Cantonese cuisine) in the Liuhua Business District
📍Mall Location: Directly opposite the Northeast Gate of Liuhua Lake, en route back to Yuexiu Park Subway Station

🎡Children’s Playground (additional fees apply)

💡Travel Tips:
1️⃣📷Photogenic Spots: Little White Palace, Deciduous Bald Cypress Forest, Wangyuan Pavilion (Furongzhou Island, featuring popular window-frame views)
2️⃣☂️Bring an umbrella as summer rains are frequent
3️⃣🚶Expect to spend around 3-4 hours exploring, with nearby attractions like Yuexiu Park also worth a visit

picture copy by xiaohongshu

Latest news: Hainan welcomes the first batch of 144-hour visa-free visitors

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The implementation of Hainan’s 144-hour visa-free policy for foreign tourist groups from Hong Kong and Macao is a far-reaching initiative that not only injects new vitality into Hainan’s tourism industry but also builds a more convenient bridge for interconnectivity between China and the world.

Boosting Tourism Development

The most direct impact of this policy is to promote the prosperity of Hainan’s tourism industry. For a long time, Hainan has attracted a large number of domestic and foreign tourists with its unique natural scenery, abundant tourism resources, and positioning as an international tourism and consumption center. The introduction of the visa-free policy further opens Hainan’s tourism market to the world, especially through Hong Kong and Macao, which serve as international tourism hubs, attracting more tourists from diverse countries to experience Hainan’s charm. The arrival of the Vietnamese family of three marks the official implementation of this policy, laying a solid foundation for the subsequent arrival of more international tourist groups.

Facilitating Travel Plans for Tourists

For tourists, the 144-hour visa-free stay period means they can make more in-depth and flexible travel arrangements in Hainan. Without the cumbersome visa application process, tourists can plan their itineraries more easily, enjoying Hainan’s natural scenery, cultural experiences, shopping, and entertainment among other diversified tourism products. This not only enhances the travel experience for tourists but also strengthens Hainan’s attractiveness as an international tourist destination.

Optimizing Customs Clearance Procedures

The National Immigration Administration has adopted a series of convenience measures, such as allowing travel agencies to declare in advance for expedited customs clearance and permitting travel agency staff to enter ports to pick up and drop off groups, significantly improving the customs clearance efficiency for tourist groups. These measures not only reduce waiting times for tourists at ports but also demonstrate the Chinese government’s determination and actions in enhancing service quality and optimizing the business environment. Additionally, for tourists who need to leave the group and exit the country in advance due to special circumstances, convenience is provided for group separation procedures, ensuring that tourists’ individualized needs are met.

Strengthening Regional Exchanges and Cooperation

The implementation of the new policy not only promotes Hainan’s tourism development but also strengthens exchanges and cooperation between China, Hong Kong, Macao, and the international community. Hainan, as the southernmost province in China, boasts unique geographical advantages and a strategic position at the forefront of opening up. By attracting more international tourists, Hainan can better showcase China’s reform and opening-up achievements and economic and social development accomplishments, enhancing international understanding and awareness of China. At the same time, this will provide new opportunities and platforms for cooperation between Hainan, Hong Kong, Macao, and the international community in tourism, culture, trade, and other fields.

Looking Ahead

With the in-depth implementation and continuous improvement of the new policy, Hainan’s tourism industry is expected to embrace even broader development prospects. The National Immigration Administration will continue to optimize regional visa-free entry policies, advance the institutional opening-up of immigration management, and provide more convenient and efficient services for foreigners coming to China. This will further enhance Hainan’s international reputation and influence, driving the Hainan Free Trade Port to continuously achieve new and greater accomplishments.

Guangdong In-Depth Travel Guide: Traversing History, Seaside and hiking

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Guangdong, this vibrant and charming land, awaits every traveler with its rich historical and cultural heritage, unique hot spring resources, enchanting seaside scenery, and magnificent natural wonders. Whether wandering through the alleys of ancient cities, soaking in the warmth of hot springs, strolling along the seaside, or trekking through mountains and forests, every journey is a memorable experience, a spiritual odyssey. Come, embark on this in-depth exploration of Guangdong and embark on a spontaneous journey!

🌟Embark: Traversing the Corridors of History in Guangdong🌟

Embarking from the ancient city of Guangzhou, a land rich in stories, let us first delve into its millennia-old history. Stroll through the European-style architectural complex on Shamian Island, as if transported back in time to the concession era, where every brick and stone whispers tales of past grandeur and vicissitudes. Then, delve deeper into the Nanyue Palace Museum, unveiling the mysteries of the ancient Nanyue Kingdom, beholding the royal splendor of a thousand years ago, and immersing oneself in the profoundness of history and culture.

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🌊Indulge: The Gentle Embrace of the Hot Spring City🌊

Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the metropolis, drive towards Qingyuan or Conghua, renowned as the “City of Hot Springs.” Here, choose a cozy hot spring resort, allowing your body and mind to unwind completely in the steaming waters. Whether it’s the tranquility of a Japanese-style onsen or the rustic charm of an open-air hot spring nestled amidst the mountains, every breath is a gift from nature, and every soak is a farewell to exhaustion. At night, soak under the starry sky, experiencing a unique serenity.

🏖️Stroll: The Romance and Freedom of the Seaside🏖️

Heading southwards, the endless coastline of Guangdong awaits. Shenzhen’s Dameisha and Xiaomeisha, Zhuhai’s Lovers’ Road, or Shantou’s Nan’ao Island, each is a poetic ode to the seaside. Wade into the soft, powdery sand with bare feet, let the sea breeze caress your face, listen to the sound of waves lapping against the shore, and feel the vastness and freedom that emanate from the ocean. Rent a bicycle and cycle along the coastline, taking in the breathtaking views, or embark on a sea voyage, dancing with seagulls, and embarking on an adventurous island exploration.

 

👣Trek: Exploring the Hidden Wilderness of Nature👣

Guangdong boasts not only seaside vistas but also hidden hiking havens amidst its mountains and waters. Venture into Shaoguan’s Danxia Mountain, ascending along winding mountain trails, where you’ll discover nature’s masterpiece—the red cliff faces, immersing yourself in a vibrant landscape akin to a painted scroll. Or, delve into the primeval forest of Dinghu Mountain in Zhaoqing, breathing in fresh air, listening to the symphony of birds and insects, and feeling the tranquility and harmony of nature. Hiking is not just a physical challenge but a spiritual cleansing, allowing one to find inner peace and strength amidst nature’s embrace.

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Guangdong Hot Spring Tour: A Luxurious Pampering for Body and Mind

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Amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life, the hot spring resorts in Guangdong offer an ideal escape for relaxation and rejuvenation. From the elegance of Bishuiwan to the exotic charm of Nankunshan Yunding, the breathtaking scenery of Gudou Hot Spring, and the tranquility of Nankunshanju, each destination holds a unique gift from nature and a touch of human warmth. Here’s a meticulously planned travel guide to embark on a spontaneous hot spring adventure in Guangdong.

First Stop: Bishuiwan Hot Spring Resort – A Journey into Pure Soda Springs

Highlights:

  • Large Outdoor Soda Springs: Immerse yourself in mineral-rich waters, nurturing every inch of your skin.
  • Variety of Pools: Choose from 33 different-sized hot spring swimming pools, splash pools, and medicinal baths to suit your preferences.
  • Comprehensive Services: Awarded Best Service Hot Spring at the Golden Soup Awards five times, enjoy star-rated accommodation, gourmet cuisine, and leisure entertainment all in one place.

Tip: Visit in the evening to savor the hot springs under the setting sun for a unique experience.

Second Stop: Nankunshan Yunding Hot Spring Resort – A Romantic Encounter with Bali-Inspired Charm

Highlights:

  • Natural Silicate Fluoride Springs: Soak in the 72°C waters, crystal clear and rich in minerals, invigorating your body.
  • Balinese-Style Architecture: Nestled against a hill, the resort blends seamlessly with Bali’s essence, making it a photographer’s paradise.
  • Serene Natural Surroundings: Wake up to a panoramic view of mountains and waters, rejuvenating your mind and soul.

Tip: Book a full-body massage at the resort’s spa center for ultimate relaxation.

Third Stop: Gudou Hot Spring – A Feast of Hot Springs Amidst Mountains and Seas

Highlights:

  • Dual Hot Spring Experience: Unique sea-water and radon hot springs, offering a dual nourishment and cultural immersion.
  • Stunning Natural Scenery: Backed by lush mountains and facing the sea, the resort boasts breathtaking lakes and seascapes, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
  • Health and Wellness: The mineral-rich waters aid in detoxification, beautifying the skin, and enhancing vitality.

Tip: Take a stroll by the lake or participate in the resort’s seaside activities for a comprehensive coastal experience.

Fourth Stop: Nankunshanju Hot Spring Resort – A Soothing Retreat in a Pastoral Setting

Highlights:

  • Rare Alkaline Hot Springs: The unique water quality, rich in trace elements, effectively improves skin texture and promotes metabolism.
  • Idyllic Countryside Views: Surrounded by vast farmland, the resort offers changing seasonal landscapes, ideal for family vacations and romantic getaways.
  • Exceptional Service: Recognized with Golden Soup Awards multiple times, the resort’s attentive service makes you feel right at home.

Tip: Engage in eco-friendly activities like picking fruits, fishing, and more, to experience the joys of rural life.

Sandstone Danxia Wonders, Breathtaking Scenery – A Journey to Danxia Mountain

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Nestled in the embrace of Lingnan, lies a natural treasure that captivates the hearts of travelers – Shaoguan’s Danxia Mountain, a masterpiece carved by nature over millions of years, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a dreamland sought after by countless wanderers. Embark on an impulsive adventure and let us stroll through this vibrant tapestry of Danxia’s breathtaking scenery.

🌟 Danxia Wonders, Stirring Souls
Renowned for its unique topography, Danxia Mountain is a magical realm crafted from red sandstone. Peaks stand tall like forests, their hues resembling vivid crimson, shimmering like dawn’s glow. It seems as if Mother Nature’s most passionate brushstrokes have outlined a series of majestic landscapes. Each step taken amidst this panorama turns into a scene, every scene a poem, leaving one in awe of nature’s divine craftsmanship.

🌄 Sunrise Amid Cloud Sea, A Heavenly Realm
As dawn breaks, the first rays of sunlight pierce through the clouds, bathing the peaks of Danxia Mountain in a golden aura. Standing atop the viewing platform, one gazes upon the interplay between rolling clouds and towering mountains, a moment where time stands still, and the soul finds unprecedented tranquility and purification.

🌌 Zen Temples, Tracing History
Beyond its captivating natural beauty, Danxia Mountain also embodies profound cultural depths. The chimes of ancient temples echo gently through the valleys, adding a touch of mystery and solemnity to this enchanted land. A visit to Jinshiyan Temple immerses one in the serenity and tranquility of a thousand-year-old monastery, allowing the soul to ascend amidst the curling incense smoke.

 

🏞️ Trekking Adventures, Embracing Nature
Danxia Mountain is not just a spectacle for the eyes; it’s a haven for hiking enthusiasts. Traverse winding mountain trails amidst peculiar rocks and peaks, where every breath is filled with fresh air, and every halt reveals new wonders. Whether challenging the steep inclines of Yangyuan Rock and Changlao Peak or strolling leisurely along the banks of the Jinjiang River, one deeply experiences the harmony of being one with nature.

🌈 Conclusion
Danxia Mountain, a place where once visited, one never wishes to leave. Here, you can shed the hustle and bustle of the city,explore the grandeur of nature and savor the profoundness of culture. Give yourself the chance to embark on an impulsive journey to Danxia, and let your soul soar freely over this magical terrain.

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Discover the Wonders of Nature: A Journey to the Magnificent Baishuizhai Waterfall

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Nestled on the fringes of bustling cities, lies a serene and enchanting haven—Baishuizhai Waterfall, a living tapestry of rolling mountains and flowing waters that whispers tales of nature’s exquisite craftsmanship and timeless tranquility.

🌟 Step into Fairyland, Embrace an Earthly Paradise

As you enter Baishuizhai, it’s as if you’ve traversed a portal, instantly distancing yourself from the hustle and bustle. Treading along the winding mountain paths, each step resonates with the rhythm of nature, while your breaths are filled with the freshness of air and the fragrance of earth. Lifting your gaze, the White Fairy Waterfall cascades down the cliff, akin to a silvery river pouring from the heavens, its grandeur inspiring awe.

🌊 Marvel at the Falls, Embark on a Journey That Touches the Soul

The White Fairy Waterfall, with its staggering 428.5-meter drop, is hailed as “the waterfall with the greatest height difference in Mainland China,” the very soul of Baishuizhai and a treasure bestowed upon this land by nature. Standing on the viewing platform, the cool mist envelops you, and the roaring water sounds like celestial music, cleansing the dust from your heart and immersing you in a world of forgetfulness and bliss.

🌳 Embrace the Green, Indulge in an Ecological Feast

Beyond the falls’ grandeur, Baishuizhai boasts vast virgin forests and abundant ecological resources. Strolling along the forest trails, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery, birdsong, and the fragrance of flowers, as if you’ve stepped into a giant natural oxygen bar. Here, you can observe rare plants up close, listen to the birds’ joyous melodies, and feel the harmony of nature’s coexistence.

👣 Challenge Yourself, Ascend the Tiannan First Steps

If you seek adventure and self-challenge, embark on the “Tiannan First Steps,” a 6.6-kilometer hiking trail adorned with multiple viewing platforms and waterfall touchpoints. Each step reveals new wonders, and when you reach the summit, overlooking the entire Baishuizhai scenic area, the sense of accomplishment and satisfaction will be indescribable.

🍽️ Savor Delicacies, Indulge Your Taste Buds

No journey is complete without the company of good food. In Baishuizhai, indulge in authentic farm-to-table cuisine and local snacks. Dishes like the ancient-style Shuizhai Roast Chicken and Bamboo Rice, with their unique cooking methods and delicious flavors, will satisfy both your eyes and palate during this visual feast.

📸 Capture the Moments, Preserve Eternal Memories

Lastly, don’t forget to capture these precious instants with your camera. Whether it’s the falls’ magnificence, the forest’s serenity, or the joy of reaching the summit, they will all become invaluable memories from your journey.

Come, let us embark on a spontaneous adventure to Baishuizhai Waterfall, exploring the wonders and beauty hidden within nature’s embrace!

                                                                                                                   pic copy by xiaohongshu

Guangzhou Wilderness Hiking:The ultimate choice

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If you are a hiking enthusiast, here are the translations of the recommended hiking trails and notes for you visiting Guangzhou:

Recommended Hiking Trails in Guangzhou

1. Baiyun Mountain Hiking Trail

  • Features: Baiyun Mountain is a landmark scenic spot in Guangzhou, boasting stunning natural scenery and rich historical culture. There are various hiking trails suitable for different levels of hikers.
  • Recommended Route: West Gate of Baiyun Mountain – Ox Ridge Lawn – Moxing Ridge – Halfway Pavilion – West Gate of Baiyun Mountain. This route covers the main attractions of Baiyun Mountain, allowing visitors to enjoy magnificent natural views.

2. Huolushan Hiking Trail

  • Features: Huolushan, named for its resemblance to a gourd, is covered with fine broad-leaved trees and boasts fresh air, making it an excellent destination for hiking.
  • Recommended Route: South Gate of Huolushan Forest Park – White Shelf Top – Pig Head Rock – Observation Deck – North Gate. Along this route, visitors can admire beautiful natural scenery and unique mountain landscapes.

3. Fenghuangshan Hiking Trail

  • Features: Fenghuangshan, with its relatively high altitude, offers challenging hiking trails but also stunning scenery.
  • Recommended Route: Fenghuangshan Hiking Path – Fenghuangshan Peak – Descent Trail via Wild Path – Tianluhu Forest Park Scenic Area Hiking Trail. This route combines the thrill of hiking and traversing wild paths, perfect for those who enjoy a challenge.

4. Niutoushan Hiking Trail

  • Features: Niutoushan offers spectacular sunrises and sea of clouds, making it a fantastic spot for hiking enthusiasts to appreciate natural beauty.
  • Recommended Route: Huangpu Subway Station Area – Niutoushan Peak – Descent via Wild Path – Huangpu River Greenway. This route not only showcases beautiful sunrises and clouds but also offers the enjoyment of hiking downhill.

5. Longfengtianniu Trail

  • Features: This is a high-intensity, moderately difficult hiking trail that offers a rich variety of experiences and scenery.
  • Trail Introduction: It encompasses the Wild Path Crossing of Long Trail + Fenghuangshan Hiking Trail + Tianluhu Uphill Wild Path Crossing + Niutoushan Downhill Wild Path Crossing. The entire trail covers a long distance and requires good physical strength and endurance, but visitors can enjoy spectacular views of odd-shaped rocks, red leaves, bauhinia blossoms, and the historical site of Japanese aggression in Taihezhang.

Notes

  • When choosing a hiking trail, please consider your physical strength and experience to ensure safety.
  • Before hiking, make sure to be well-prepared with suitable hiking shoes, enough water and food, and knowledge of the weather and trail conditions.
  • Comply with park regulations, do not litter, and protect the natural environment.
  • Stay safe and avoid going to unfamiliar or dangerous areas alone. It is best to hike in groups.

picture copy by xiaohongshu

CONGHUA Hot Spring Travel Tips

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CONGHUA Hot Springs, also known as LIUXI River Hot Springs, is located in CONGHUA Hot Springs Town, northeast of GUANGZHOU, about 75 kilometers away from GUANGZHOU, and is a well-known scenic spot and healing resort. It is not only rich in natural scenery, but also has many quality hot spring resorts and cuisines, making it an excellent choice for leisure vacations and healing and resting. Here is a detailed travel guide of CONGHUA Hot Spring to help you fully experience this beautiful country.

I. Major Attractions

1. South Calm Cultivation Town of CONGHUA

Hidden among bamboo forests and fruit trees, the South Calm Cultivation Town is supported by Fenghuang Mountain and embraced by Fenghuang River, with a forest coverage rate of 97%. It combines mountains, springs, forests, streams and rocks into a natural ecological landscape, which is a good place to relax. Walking along the Fengxi Trail, listening to the sound of tinkling spring water and feeling the cool air is very pleasant. Landscape nodes such as Phoenix Spreading Wings, Twin Bridges Hui and Cultural Square in the town incorporate elements of Nanping culture, and meet the diverse needs of visitors with leisure facilities such as ancient pavilions and coffee houses.

2. Shimen National Forest Park

Shimen National Forest Park is the most popular photo spot in Guangdong, known as “GUANGZHOU Xiangshan”. The park has 96.76% forest coverage, and December is the best time to see the red leaves of Shimen, which cover more than 3,000 acres, mainly maple trees, mountain sebifer trees and maple trees, which sway in the wind under the sunlight, making it picturesque and beautiful. In addition, the park also has natural landscapes such as the highest peak in GUANGZHOU, Paradise Peak, which is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts.

3. Hot Spring Waterfall

Located on the rocky cliff of Toujia Mountain, the Hot Spring Waterfall is divided into five levels, which are majestic and known as Baizhang Waterfall, Flying Rainbow Waterfall and Fragrant Powder Waterfall. The waterfall is filled with water mist, and when the sunlight shines, it forms a colorful rainbow, which is breathtaking. Around the waterfall, there are also Cuicui Pavilion, Spring Pavilion, Qingyin Pavilion and other humanistic landscapes, suitable for tourists to stop to watch and rest.

Second, the hot spring resort recommended

1. Guangdong Hot Spring Hotel

Guangdong Hot Spring Hotel is a Chinese garden style hot spring resort, by the mountain and water, pleasant environment. It has received party and state leaders such as Mao Zedong, Liu Shaoqi and Zhou Enlai, as well as foreign heads of state. The hotel has 500 beds, with baking soda hot spring water supplied directly to the guest rooms 24 hours a day, equipped with open-air hot spring, health garden, art gallery, tennis, table tennis, indoor hot spring swimming pool and other health, entertainment and recreation facilities.

2. Bishuiwan Hot Spring Resort

Bishuiwan Hot Spring Resort is a luxury resort located on the bank of LIUXI River in CONGHUA LIUXI Hot Spring Tourist Resort. The resort is equipped with large open-air hot springs, swimming pools, soccer fields and other facilities where visitors can enjoy the hot springs and leisure time. The resort’s service staff is warm and attentive, making it a good place to relax.

3. St. Tory Spa Manor

St. Tory Spa Manor is unique in the Greek Aegean Sea, with more than 50 hot spring pools of different sizes and a large outdoor swimming pool with an area of more than 1,000 square meters. The hot spring water in the Manor is rich in more than twenty kinds of minerals and trace elements that are beneficial to the human body, with health care and health effects. The unique architectural style of the mansion brings exotic tastes for visitors to enjoy.

4. Henleston Spa Hotel

Located at the entrance of CONGHUA Hot Spring Tourist Resort, Henleston Hot Spring Hotel is a hot spring health hotel. The hotel is equipped with special lobby bar, health spa pool, garden swimming pool, recreational spa, catering, conference and movie facilities to meet the needs of different tourists. Some of the rooms are equipped with private hot spring soaking pools, making the concept of comfortable living more profound.

C. Culinary Recommendations

1. Hot Spring Raw Egg

Hot Spring Raw Egg is one of the specialties of CONGHUA Hot Spring. Boiled in just the right amount of hot spring water, the egg is smooth, tender and melts in your mouth. It is delicious when served with black truffle mushrooms and vegetable salad.

2. Hot Spring Chicken

Pepper Hot Spring Chicken is made from Lai Yuen’s free-range chickens with firm and tender meat. After being cooked in hot spring water at 67.5°, the skin of the chicken is tender and crispy, and the meat is tender and full of flavor, making it unforgettable.