Guangdong (formerly Canton), a coastal province of southeast China, borders Hong Kong and Macau. Its capital, Guangzhou, sits within its industrial Pearl River Delta region. This sprawling port is home to the octagonal Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, commemorating the founder of modern China. The city’s colonial history is evident in its garden-lined boulevards and the 19th-century European architecture of Shamian Island.
Guangdong in Brief:
- Guangdong is one of China's most populous and prosperous provinces, known as the "Gateway to South China" due to its strategic location.
- It boasts a mix of modern cities, ancient towns, scenic mountains, and coastal regions, offering visitors a wide range of experiences.
- Guangdong is famous for its delicious Cantonese cuisine, which has had a significant influence on Chinese cuisine worldwide.
Top Attractions:
- Guangzhou: The provincial capital and a major cultural and commercial hub, Guangzhou offers attractions such as the Canton Tower, Yuexiu Park, and the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall.
- Shenzhen: Known for its modern skyline, theme parks like Splendid China Folk Village and Window of the World, as well as its proximity to Hong Kong.
- Kaiping Diaolou and Villages: UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring unique fortified towers blending Chinese and Western architectural styles, surrounded by picturesque rural villages.
- Foshan: Known for its martial arts heritage and traditional handicrafts, Foshan is home to attractions like the Ancestral Temple and the Nanfeng Ancient Kiln.
- Guangdong Maritime Silk Road Museum: Located in Yangjiang, this museum showcases the maritime history and cultural exchanges along the ancient Maritime Silk Road.
- Danxia Mountain: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic red sandstone formations, offering opportunities for hiking and photography.
- Mount Danxia National Geological Park: Located in Shaoguan, this park features stunning rock formations, lush forests, and picturesque valleys.
- Hakka Tulou Clusters: Located in the eastern part of Guangdong, these unique circular earthen dwellings are home to the Hakka people and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Top Things to Do:
- Cycling Trip: Explore the scenic countryside and coastal areas of Guangdong on cycling routes like the Shenzhen Bay Park cycling path or the trails around Yangshuo.
- Hiking Guide: Embark on hiking adventures in the mountains of Danxia, Wuyi, or the Seven Star Crags, offering breathtaking views and opportunities to explore nature.
- Birdwatching Tour: Visit wetland reserves like the Mai Po Nature Reserve in Shenzhen or the Xiangtoushan National Nature Reserve in Zhaoqing to observe a variety of bird species.
- Golf Playing: Enjoy a round of golf at one of Guangdong's many world-class golf courses, such as Mission Hills Golf Club in Shenzhen or Guangzhou Nansha Golf Club.
- River Cruise and Rafting: Take a leisurely river cruise along the Pearl River, or for more adventurous travelers, try white-water rafting on the rivers of Danxia or Wuyi Mountains.
- Kayaking: Explore the scenic waterways of Guangdong, such as the Dongjiang River in Shaoguan or the Li River in Guilin, by kayaking.
- Night Activities: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Guangdong's cities, with options ranging from traditional Cantonese opera performances to modern bars, clubs, and night markets.