Northern Guangdong Travel Guide

Discover Northern Guangdong with this comprehensive travel guide - find out where to go, what to do, what to eat, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Northern Guangdong

Northern Guangdong, also known as the “land of mountains and rivers,” is a region in South China that encompasses the prefecture-level cities of Heyuan, Meizhou, Shaoguan, and Qingyuan. It is located on the eastern side of Guangdong province, bordering Fujian and Jiangxi provinces. Northern Guangdong is an incredible destination that boasts stunning natural landscapes, rich history and culture, delicious food, and unique traditions. It’s a region that still remains relatively unknown to many travelers but has plenty to offer, making it a great place to explore for those looking for a unique travel experience.

List of Places to Visit in Northern Guangdong

If you’re planning a trip to Northern Guangdong, make sure to add these places to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Meizhou Hakka Museum: This museum showcases the culture and history of the Hakkas, an ethnic group that originated from northern China and settled in Guangdong centuries ago.

  • Nanling National Forest Park: Known as the “Green Lung of Guangdong,” this park features lush forests, breathtaking waterfalls, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Danxia Mountain: The Danxia Mountain Range is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors a chance to see the unique formations and vibrant colors of the red sandstone landscape.

Natural Attractions of Northern Guangdong: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Guifeng Mountain: Located in Shaoguan, Guifeng Mountain is known for its stunning scenery, including granite peaks, grand waterfalls, and crystal-clear rivers.

  • Chaozhou Xiangzi Bridge: This ancient bridge, also known as the “Wind and Rain Bridge,” is a cultural symbol of Chaozhou and dates back over 1,000 years.

  • Qingyuan Feilai Temple: Set in a picturesque location on the hillside, this temple is famous for its ancient architecture, beautiful gardens, and serene atmosphere.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Guangdong

Northern Guangdong region offers excellent opportunities for hikers and bikers to explore the natural beauty and stunning landscapes of the area. Some of the popular routes worth checking out include the following:

  • Huangteng Gorge: This scenic gorge offers stunning views of granite peaks, waterfalls, and crystal clear waters. The trail offers challenging but rewarding hikes, and visitors can enjoy swimming and rafting in the natural pools.

  • Wuzhi Mountain: Located in Meizhou, Wuzhi Mountain offers a range of hiking trails that lead visitors through the lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Northern Guangdong: Activities and Tours

Northern Guangdong offers a wealth of attractions and activities for travelers to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Visit the Meizhou Hakka Village: The traditional Hakka architecture, craftsmanship, and culture are on full display in this living museum where the Hakka identity is preserved and celebrated.

  • Try Traditional Hakka Food: Northern Guangdong is famous for its Hakka cuisine, which features unique dishes such as black bean pork belly, stuffed tofu, and braised duck.

  • Explore the Qingyuan Underground River National Park: This park features unique geological formations, deep pools, and dancing waterfalls, which makes it a popular destination for tourists.

  • Join a Bamboo Rafting Tour: Take a relaxing bamboo raft trip along the winding rivers, valleys, and high peaks of Northern Guangdong’s natural landscape. It’s an excellent way to soak up the breathtaking scenery at a leisurely pace.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Guangdong

To make the most of your trip to Northern Guangdong, here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long tour:

Week-long Itinerary for Northern Guangdong

Food and Drink Scene of Northern Guangdong

Brace yourself for a culinary journey in Northern Guangdong - this region is renowned for its unique Hakka cuisine, which is a blending of different cooking styles and ingredients. Here are some signature dishes and drinks you must try while visiting:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dongjiang Salt Baked Chicken: A whole chicken is baked in salt and ginger, resulting in a succulent, flavorful meat that falls off the bone.

  • Liu Family Braised Pork Belly: A popular bacon-like dish prepared with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sugar. Cooked until it is tender and juicy.

  • Fried River Snails with Spicy Sauce: A popular snack in the Meizhou area, the snails are sautéed with spices that give them a spicy and flavorful taste.

Local Beverages

  • Wuyi Rock Tea: Northern Guangdong is home to Wuyi Rock Tea, a type of tea plant that grows in mineral-rich soil and produces a unique taste.

  • Yellow Wine: Also known as huangjiu, this slightly sweet, alcoholic drink is made by fermenting rice with a special fungus and is a popular drink in this region.

Where to Stay in Northern Guangdong: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Northern Guangdong offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers of all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Shaoguan Marriott Hotel: Located in Shaoguan, this hotel offers excellent facilities and services, including an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center.

  • Banana Hostel: A budget-friendly option in Meizhou, the Banana Hostel offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.

  • Yi Hua Hotel Qing Yuan: Located in Qingyuan, this hotel offers spacious rooms, excellent facilities, and a great location close to popular attractions.

What to Buy in Northern Guangdong: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Northern Guangdong is renowned for its unique handicrafts, antiques, and delicious local products. Here are some souvenirs that you should buy:

  • Traditional Hakka Embroidery: A unique embroidery style known for its vibrant colors, intricate designs, and traditional motifs, it’s a popular souvenir to take home.

  • Yuebei Pearls: Meizhou is known for producing high-quality freshwater pearls, which you can purchase at a reasonable price.

  • Danxia Red Stone: You can purchase replicas of the unique rock formations at Danxia Mountain, which make for a unique souvenir or gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Northern Guangdong

Northern Guangdong is home to various ethnic groups, each with their unique customs and traditions. The Hakka people, for instance, are known for their architectural style, embroidery, and cuisine. When visiting Northern Guangdong, it’s essential to be aware of and respect these cultural differences.

Best Time to Visit Northern Guangdong

The best time to visit Northern Guangdong is during the autumn season (October - November). The weather is mild, and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful during this time of the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Guangdong

Do:

  • Try Hakka cuisine
  • Respect local customs and cultures
  • Go hiking in the stunning mountains and parks

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the cultural and religious sites
  • Eat in improper places

Safety and Health

Safety in Northern Guangdong

Generally, Northern Guangdong is a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s recommended to take the usual precautions, and keep your belongings safe when traveling.

Health in Northern Guangdong

While traveling to Northern Guangdong, it’s recommended to take some general precautions, such as drinking bottled water and using insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites. If you’re unsure about the vaccination requirements, consult your doctor before your trip.

Getting to Northern Guangdong: Transportation Options and Logistics

Northern Guangdong is well connected to major cities in China. Here are some ways to reach Northern Guangdong:

Airports Near Northern Guangdong

  • Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
  • Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX)

Bus Stations Near Northern Guangdong

  • Guangzhou Bus Station
  • Shenzhen Bus Station

Other Options

  • Take a train from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to several railway stations in Northern Guangdong.

How to Get Around in Northern Guangdong

Public transport in Northern Guangdong can be a bit limited, so the best way to explore the region is by hiring a private car or joining a tour group. Taxis and buses are also available in larger cities.

Where to Go Next from Northern Guangdong: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Northern Guangdong is a great starting point for exploring other parts of Guangdong province or Jiangxi and Fujian provinces. Some nearby destinations worth exploring are:

  • Guangzhou
  • Foshan
  • Xiamen
  • Wuyishan

Conclusion

Northern Guangdong is an incredible destination that is still relatively undiscovered. It offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural landscapes, rich history, ancient culture, and delicious cuisine of this region. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re all set to plan your next adventure to Northern Guangdong!



    Danxiashan
    Nanling National Forest Park
    Shaoguan
    Zhaoqing